THE URSULA GENTILE LOWERRE OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD
In November of 2006, Franklin Switzerland’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to create the Ursula Gentile Lowerre Outstanding Service Award. This award was developed to recognize outstanding members of the alumni community for exemplary service to the University and for their enthusiastic leadership and support of its mission and goals. The award reflects the honor and credit that recipients bring to the University through their actions and contributions.
The award is named in honor of Ursula Gentile Lowerre, a steadfast advocate for Franklin who has generously contributed her time, energy, and leadership to advance the University and its mission. Her unwavering dedication and inspiring example have influenced generations of students and alumni. This award celebrates those who embody Ursula’s passion and commitment by making meaningful contributions to Franklin and beyond.
Past award recipients include:
- Claudia Figueredo ’95
- John Steinbreder ’76
- Jim Moore ’74
- Sally Dodge ’65
- Sheikh Hussein Al-Banawi ’76
- Ned Lynch ’66
- Meg Salyer ’74
- India Howell ’76
- Thomas Gould ’70
- Rene Musech '11
- Emily Boynton '09
- Majda Dakkak '15
- Conner Crawford ’12
- Richard K. Sussman '95
Each year Franklin trustees, alumni, faculty, and staff are invited to submit nominations for the award.
The recipient of the 2026 Ursula Gentile Lowerre Outstanding Service Award is Timothy (Tim) Darrin '74 (awarded posthumously).
2026 RECIPIENT
Timothy (Tim) Darrin '74, awarded posthumously
Timothy (Tim) Darrin, Class of 1974, was a beloved Franklin alumnus and former trustee remembered for his warmth, adventurous spirit, and lifelong belief in the transformative power of international education. After graduating from Franklin, Tim remained a devoted member of the community, cofounding the Western Action Group in 2001, which grew to more than 30 alumni engaged in admissions outreach and advancement efforts across California. An accomplished hot air balloon pilot, he once flew over Paris to retrace the world’s first manned balloon flight, and memorably brought his balloon to campus to give Franklin students a bird’s-eye view of the place that had shaped him.
Tim passed away in 2024. In his honor, the KHR McNeely Family Foundation and the Margaret A. Darrin Charitable Trust have established the Tim Darrin ‘74 Scholarship Fund, an endowed fund seeded with $500,000 to expand access to international education for future Franklin students. A matching challenge is currently underway to grow the fund to $1 million.
Eligibility
Only alumni of Franklin Switzerland, or one of its predecessors (i.e. Fleming College) are eligible. Alumni and former Franklin staff/alumni must have graduated or departed from the University at least two years before being able to be nominated and previous winners cannot be re-nominated for a period of three years.
Current board members or current employees of the University are not eligible to receive the award.
Nominees shall have a proven record of exceptional service to Franklin Switzerland as well as to their community.
Selection Process
After all nominations have been received, the awardee will be decided by an Award Selection Committee made up of a Franklin Trustee, Honorary Alumni Council member, two Alumni Council members, and an Advancement department representative.
Presentation
If an awardee is chosen (the award does not have to be given out each year), the person selected will be presented the award at the following May Commencement Ceremony. The awardee may apply for a travel stipend from the Alumni Council if necessary.
