FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Cindy Deppe, media relations, 641-269-4834

June 4, 2008

SAMUEL R. HARRIS '58 HONORED AT GRINNELL COLLEGE ALUMNI REUNION

GRINNELL, IA - Grinnell College recognized the professional accomplishments and service contributions of 12 alumni during Alumni Reunion Weekend, May 28-June 1 on the Grinnell campus. Alumni Award winners are members of reunion classes who have distinguished themselves in their careers and communities and embody Grinnell’s mission of life-long learning and service.

Samuel R. Harris, a 1958 graduate of Grinnell College from Kildeer, Ill., received an Alumni Award as a member of the 50th reunion class. Following is the citation read about Harris’ accomplishments: "Sometimes the most difficult history to tell is our own. For decades, this alumnus rarely spoke about his experiences as a Holocaust survivor. But now he is telling his story -- and helping others tell theirs.

At Grinnell, this alumnus earned a political science degree and participated in student council and wrestling. He went on to build a successful career in the life insurance industry. During the past decade, this alumnus has opened up about his past. Though it is difficult for him to share the stories of surviving the Nazi concentration camps as a child, he is committed to helping future generations understand this important and terrible part of the world’s history. He regularly visits schools to speak to students of all ages about his experiences. In 2001, he wrote a children’s book, Sammy, Child Survivor of the Holocaust, to bring this story to a wider audience.

For years, this alumnus has worked tirelessly to create a Holocaust museum just outside Chicago. As current president of the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, he will preside over the facility’s opening next year. More than a quarter-million students are expected to visit the museum each year. For his tireless dedication to fighting hatred and prejudice now and for generations to come, Grinnell is pleased to recognize Samuel R. Harris ’58."

Grinnell College is a nationally recognized, private, four year, liberal arts college located in Grinnell, Iowa. Founded in 1846, Grinnell enrolls 1,600 students from all 50 states and from as many international countries in more than 25 major fields, interdisciplinary concentrations, and pre-professional programs.

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