Greenville University Announces Its 2020 Alumni Awardees

Published: April 13, 2021

Greenville University is pleased to announce its 2020 Alumni Awardees: Author, lecturer and scholar U.Milo Kaufmann 56; music industry trailblazersPaul and Courtney (Somerville 03)Klimson; and longtime champions of Greenville University students, Dennis and Deborah Fenton.

GUsDistinguished Alumnus Awardgoes to prolific author and career educator U. Milo Kaufmann (at left). Dr. Kaufmann earned advanced degrees at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Yale University. For decades, he shared his love of literature as professor at North Park College and the University of Illinois-Urbana, where he earned the title professor emeritus. In retirement, Kaufmann continued lecturing at U of I. Apart from his academic contributions and achievements, Kaufmann and his wife Helen are known for the warm hospitality they routinely extend to others. Persons who know Kaufmann describe him as gracious, loving, wise, and godly.

The Klimsons, creators of Theory One Productions, are recipients of GUsOutstanding Young Alumni Award. While each has engaged in various aspects of music production, their most recent venture together fills a void in the music industry. Their newly founded Roadie Clinic, a nonprofit that serves touring musicians and their families, provides assistance in the often-overlooked areas of mental health and self-care, family health, and finances. AsRolling Stone Magazinesaid, the Klimsons have created a safe haven for gig workershelping them combat exhaustion, financial strain, mental health problems, and other touring woes.

Dennis and Deborah Fenton are this years recipients of theDr. Gene A. Kamp Loyalty Award. They arefoundingmembers of GUs Heritage Circle giving society and the parents of two GU alumni. Dennis faithfully served on the Universitys Board of Trustees for 12 years, including the transition from Greenville College to Greenville University. He and Deborahfamiliar faces at Homecoming, GUs Presidents Society Dinners, and other campus eventshave demonstrated their support of students over the years by giving their time, talents, and treasures to ensure student success.

The Greenville University Alumni Association sponsors GUsAlumni Awards. Learn more atgreenville.edu/alumni-associationor call 618-664-7119. The nomination deadline for the Universitys 2021 awards is January 31, 2021.