University of Delaware Honors 2025 Alumni Award Recipients

Newark, Delaware – The University of Delaware Alumni Association (UDAA) has announced the 2025 recipients of the Alumni Wall of Fame Awards and Outstanding Alumni Awards, set to be celebrated during Alumni Weekend on Friday, June 6.

The Alumni Wall of Fame Award honors UD graduates for their significant professional achievements, community service, and ties to their alma mater. This year’s honorees include Brigadier General James A. Benson, Karl Lieberman, and Joe McDonough.

Brigadier General James A. Benson, a 1990 graduate, recently became the first African American Adjutant General of the Delaware National Guard. Benson has served extensively in military operations and has been active in creating scholarship opportunities at UD, including the Kappa Alpha Psi Scholarship and the James E. Newton Scholarship Fund.

Karl Lieberman, an influential figure in the advertising industry, graduated in 1999 and is currently the global chief creative officer of Wieden+Kennedy. His notable campaigns, such as “The Most Interesting Man in the World” for Dos Equis, have made a substantial impact on the industry. Lieberman continues to support UD through scholarship programs and internship opportunities.

Joe McDonough transformed his personal tragedy into purpose after losing his son to leukemia in 2007. He founded The Andrew McDonough B+ (Be Positive) Foundation, which provides assistance to families of children with cancer and supports research. McDonough remains connected with UD and supports UDance, the university’s largest student-run philanthropic organization.

Additionally, the Outstanding Alumni Awards are given to alumni who have demonstrated exemplary volunteer work for UD and the UDAA. This year’s recipients are Carole Fleetwood Baker, Class of 1989, and Mary Ellen Payne, who graduated in 1978 and 1980.

Carole Fleetwood Baker has acted as a Blue Hen Regional Ambassador, significantly enhancing alumni engagement and participation over the past nine years. She also supports Delaware student-athletes and has been instrumental in fundraising efforts.

Mary Ellen Payne, a retired senior vice president from Verizon Communications, has been dedicated to mentoring UD students since 2012. She has received recognition for her exceptional guidance and contributions to various leadership initiatives at UD.

The award recipients will be acknowledged during Alumni Weekend festivities along with the winners of the 2025 UDAA Warner and Taylor Awards for Outstanding Seniors. For more information about the event, contact the UDAA or visit their website.