Mortar Board Alumni Spotlight
John T. Mount
The Ohio State University, Made honorary in 1983
2009 Mortar Board Distinguished Lifetime Membership Award recipient
John was one of the first male members of The Ohio State University chapter, initiated as an honorary member in 1981. While many honorary members simply accept this great honor and move forward, John served in an active role alongside the collegiate members, raising funds and participating in events. Both prior to and since his initiation, John has provided superior service to all of Mortar Board’s levels.
John is the widower of former national president Ruth Weimer Mount, for whom Mortar Board’s highest chapter award is named and an endowed fellowship is awarded annually (thanks to John). He graduated from The Ohio State University in 1941. After, he served in WWII as a naval officer, obtained a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin and returned to OSU as an assistant professor in agricultural extension education. Beginning in 1960, he held four different vice presidency positions at OSU: for the university, for educational services, for student life and for regional campuses. Following his 1983 retirement, John still serves as vice president emeritus for regional campuses, dean emeritus for university college and senior volunteer associate for university development.
John has constantly been a voice of reason and encouragement, giving extraordinary service to Mortar Board. Prior to 1970, the Mortar Board National Office did not exist. As a result of the influence of John and other Ohio State leaders, Mortar Board was able to call an Ohio State campus building its home for three years. After that time, he assisted with the search that resulted in Mortar Board’s current office space. He was instrumental in both the 75th anniversary of the Ohio State chapter, raising funds to develop a Mortar Board Court on campus and the 75th anniversary of the national society, helping to plan a memorable celebration that coincided with the national conference. John was even responsible for convincing Sandra Day O’Connor to attend the 1983 Mortar Board National Conference to accept her National Citation Award.
His service is certainly not limited to Mortar Board. The Ohio State University has recognized John with the Distinguished Service Award, the John B. Gerlach Award, the Gordon Gee Spirit Award and the Ohio Staters Founders Award. He has been a vital player in Ohio 4-H, directing the first state 4-H leadership camps and helping to establish the Ohio 4-H Foundation. He has served as an outstanding role model to 4-H members and received numerous awards and honors, including induction in the Ohio 4-H Hall of Fame. With Ruth Weimer Mount, he received the first Volunteer Philanthropist of the Year Award from the central Ohio chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Each year at the Mortar Board National Conference, alumni members are honored with either the Alumni Achievement Award or the Distinguished Lifetime Membership Award. Nominations are accepted through March 15 of the award year. To nominate yourself or another alumna/alumnus to be honored in 2010, please use this form.
