Fresno State president rolls out surprises, reveals big donation at State of University
The Education Lab is a local journalism initiative that highlights education issues critical to the advancement of the San Joaquin Valley. It is funded by donors. Learn about The Bee’s Education Lab here.
Joan Eaton thought she was accepting one of Fresno State’s top honors on behalf of her 96-year-old mother, Virginia.
She was only half right.
University President Joseph Castro surprised Eaton, a longtime community business leader and lecturer at Fresno State, when he named her as the second recipient of the President’s Medal of Distinction, the college’s highest non-degree award. The award came early Tuesday during the fifth annual State of the University breakfast at the Save Mart Center in Fresno.
Eaton joined Castro on stage in front of a crowd of about 750 people and was caught off guard when Castro put the medal around her neck.
“I am flat-foot surprised,” Eaton said after receiving the medal. “I am deeply honored. I consider it a privilege to be a part of the Bulldog family. Thank you.”
Just a week ago, Eaton’s mother, Virginia, also received the award in a separate ceremony at her home at the Terraces at San Joaquin Gardens.
Castro praised the accomplishments of both women.
He described Virginia Eaton as an “inspiring trailblazer who leads an impressive and caring life.” Castro said the Fresno High graduate was just 23 years old when she graduated from USC Medical School and the only woman in the class.
“During 50 years serving our community as a practicing pediatrician, she was known to be a true scientist and geneticist before her time,” he said.
Castro applauded Joan Eaton’s contributions to local students, saying, “giving back is in your nature.
“We can certainly say the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” he said.
$1 million donation
Castro revealed a $1 million donation to the President’s Circle of Excellence from former Secretary of the Treasury Paul O’Neill, a Fresno State alumnus. “Occasions like this are special,” Castro said. “Thank you for being so supportive of us.”
This story was originally published February 11, 2020 at 2:15 PM.