GATES MILLS, Ohio, June 9 – Gilmour Academy alumnus Marc Stefanski ’72 was named the school’s Alumnus of the Year on Friday, June 3. The award was presented at a special ceremony held at the start of the Reunion Weekend festivities. 

Stefanski was introduced by his longtime friend and classmate, Bill Mulligan ’72. Mulligan shared that in the 35 years Stefanski has served as the chairman and CEO of Third Federal Savings and Loan, the bank’s assets have increased eightfold to more than $14 billion. He added that this growth, coupled with the company’s distinctive culture, have made it one of the most admired companies in northeast Ohio. He then shared the variety of other ways Stefanski has impacted local communities and organizations as well as Gilmour. 

Stefanski was a catalyst in the formation of the Third Federal Foundation, which has donated more than $50 million to local organizations and communities. 

He is the chairman of Rhonda’s Kiss, a 501c(3) he founded in honor of his late wife, Rhonda, that focuses on cancer patients' non-medical needs. Rhonda’s Kiss provides grants to partner hospitals to establish patient assistance funds, which help cover the cost of rent and utilities, wigs, oncology massage, parking or other transportation costs, as well as any other unexpected cost involved in the holistic care of the patient. 

Finally, Stefanski has made significant contributions to Gilmour throughout the 50 years since he graduated in support of the school and its campus. Mulligan noted that the state-champion hockey program and the Floyd E. Stefanski Ice Center, on campus would likely not exist without Stefanski’s commitment, passion and generosity. The Ice Center is named for Marc’s late brother Floyd, an ardent fan of Gilmour hockey and father of four Gilmour alumni, Brian ’05, Evan ’11, Gavin ’07 and Amanda ’13 Stefanski.   

In his remarks, Stefanski expressed his gratitude to the school. He stated, “I have been blessed with the love and care that this school has shared with all of us who were here. It’s just a special place, a very special place.”

In presenting Stefanski with the award, Head of School Kathy Kenny remarked, “On behalf of Gilmour, the brothers of Holy Cross, our students, our alumni and our Trustees, I hope you know how sincerely grateful we are and how honored we are to have you as an alum and a friend.”