Harold and Marion Elliott, two strong supporters of higher education and Northern Arizona University, have been awarded a 2010 Regents’ Award for Outstanding Service to Higher Education from the Arizona Board of Regents.
“Harold and Marion Elliott join the ranks of a distinguished group of individuals who have received this award,” said ABOR President Ernest Calderόn. “Their contributions have helped advance higher education in Arizona and have benefitted students in so many ways.”
The Elliotts’ dedication to NAU spans more than 60 years. They have distinguished themselves since the late 1940s in many influential roles, including as students, community leaders, committed donors, foundation board members, alumni board president, mentors and dignitaries. Their commitment to education includes endowing several NAU Foundation scholarship funds, benefitting students in Yuma, Prescott and Flagstaff.
“Harold and Marion Elliott are warm and gracious leaders who are extremely dedicated to NAU, education and the arts,” said NAU President John Haeger. “We are very fortunate they have remained so committed to our mission for so many years. They have left an indelible mark on our institution and in education at all levels throughout the state.”
Regent Robert McLendon also voiced praise for the couple. “The Elliotts are perfect role models for staying active and involved in education,” he said. “We are fortunate to count them among our strongest supporters.”
Harold Elliott received his bachelor’s degree from Arizona State College at Flagstaff, now NAU, in 1949, and completed his master’s from Arizona State College in 1951. He dedicated his career to teaching and school administration primarily in Mohave and Yuma counties, and retired as principal of Kofa High School in 1975. His long service to NAU includes serving as president of the Alumni Association board and member of the NAU Foundation board of directors. He has held several elected and appointed positions that have directly impacted education in Arizona including the Yuma Committee for Higher Education, Mayors’ Council on Post Secondary Education, Arizona Education Association and Arizona School Administrators. He also received an honorary degree from NAU in 2006.
Marion Elliott received her bachelor’s degree from Arizona State College in 1952 and completed her master’s degree at Arizona State College in 1956. She has dedicated her career and personal achievements to education and the arts throughout Arizona. Her lifetime commitment to NAU includes serving as member and three-time president of the NAU Foundation board of directors.
“Our volunteer work with all three state universities has been rewarding in so many ways,” remarked Marion Elliott. “The privilege of our more than 30 years contributing to NAU in programs, fundraising, our endowment scholarships for students, and satellite campus development has been especially rewarding. We share this award and recognition with all those who helped with our efforts.”
The Regents’ Award for Outstanding Service to Higher Education was established in 1996 to provide special recognition for Arizona citizens and organizations that provide exceptional service to higher education in Arizona. Current and former regents contribute to a fund to cover the cost of designing, sculpting and casting a suitable art object to present the recipients.
This year’s honorees also include Bruce and Diane Halle of Phoenix and Selma Paul Marks of Tucson.