Gerlach Award

The Outstanding Development Volunteer Award was created in 1996 to recognize and reward volunteers who demonstrate dedicated involvement and personal investment in fundraising efforts at Ohio State. The Gerlach Award recognizes high-level involvement with development activities through personal contributions in each of the three "Ws" of volunteerism – wealth, wisdom and work; and in philanthropy to the university.

In 1997, The Ohio State University Foundation Board of Directors unanimously voted to re-name the award to honor the late John B. "Bernie" Gerlach Sr. (1927-1997), former campaign co-chair and Foundation Board chair, whose leadership and quiet philanthropy exemplified the outstanding volunteer service this award represents. One of the most active and dedicated supporters of Ohio State throughout his lifetime, Bernie was chair of the Columbus Regional Campaign, a component of the 1985-90 University Campaign that raised $178 million from area donors.