Gail Ann McGrath joined the Speech Communication and Theatre department in 1966 after earning a M.A. in Communication at Bowling Green State University, and later earned her Ed.D from the School of Education at Boston College. One of the first members of the Communication faculty, she was a beloved professor for more than three decades until her untimely death in 1997.

Dr. McGrath's pedagogical interests were varied and she taught courses in public speaking, rhetoric, and voice and articulation. For many years she also directed the department's internship program.

In her memory, students, colleagues, and friends raised money to endow an award in her honor. Dr. McGrath was widely regarded as a master teacher and it is both fitting and appropriate that this award is presented to a graduating senior pursuing an advanced degree in Communication.

The winners of the McGrath Award include:

2012

Luisa Navarro

2011

Xian Bu

2010

Brenden Dougherty
Toni Mione

2009

Tula M. Batanchiev
Madeleine K. Rodriguez

2008

Victoria A. Matese
Colleen Carol Malachowski

2007

Amanda N. Denes

2006

Tara J. Abbott
Emily A. Berg

The Communication Department gratefully acknowledges all those who contributed funds to endow this award. The Honor Roll of Donors includes:

• Anonymous
• Linda Bedard
• Scott Brown
• Gina Caruso
• Lisa Cuklanz
• Ashley Duggan and Todd Miller
• Don and Joyce Fishman
• Mary Rose Greenough
• Dale and Edith Herbeck
• Delbert and Virgina Herbeck
• Bonnie and Terry Jefferson
• John Katsulas
• Michael and Suzanne Keith
• Marilyn Matelski
• Richard McGrath
• Dorman and Claudette Picklesimer
• Bob and Rita Rosenthal
• Herb Scannel
• Rodney Sparrow
• Bill and Jan Stanwood
• Roger and Susan Woolsey