Duane Isham '53 Honored with College's Community Service Award
A two-time graduate of Ohio State, Duane Isham '53 is committed to his community. An Akron native, Duane returned to his hometown after completing his education and serving for two years in the U.S. Air Force.
He began private practice with his father, Donovan Isham, and then joined the firm now known as Roetzel & Andress, where he has practiced for 50 years, specializing in corporate law. He has served as president of both the Akron Bar Association and the Akron Bar Association Foundation, and has served on the Ohio State Bar Association Corporate Law Committee.
Akron's Judge Carla Moore '77, of the Ninth District Ohio Court of Appeals, served with Duane on the Board of Trustees of the Akron Children's Hospital, where Duane was chairman. She says, "No institution could have had a more faithful advocate, and the hospital flourished under his board leadership." In applauding this and his service to the bar, she notes, "These Board leadership commitments require a tremendous amount of time and oversight. Duane has handled them all with great skill and enthusiasm."
The firm's Ohio Administrative Partner Ron Kopp was pleased to offer other examples of his colleague's service to the Akron community. He noted that Duane is a life member and past chair of the Salvation Army Board; a founder, past president and life member of the Akron Round Table Board of Directors; and a trustee of the Tuscora Park Health Services Foundation and the Chamber Music Organization, Music from Stan Hywet. Duane has also served on the Board of Trustees and was vice president of the Summit County Red Cross Chapter, and is a past president of the Akron Community Foundation.
Frank Bazler '53 was especially proud of his classmate, and had the honor of presenting the award to Duane on behalf of the college's National Alumni Council.
In accepting his award on November 3 at the tailgate, Duane made a special point to acknowledge that his efforts are not unique. He invited all alumni present to share in the award with him, in recognition of the service they offer to their own communities each year. We are so proud of Duane Isham — and countless others — who give their time and talent to make life better for others.
View photos from the Wisconsin tailgate.
