L: Dr. Mary Rorro, R: Dr. Gilda Rorro
The Jefferson Awards are the nation’s oldest and most prestigious recognition program for volunteer/public service, and are the official recognition program of the United States Senate. The program was founded by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, US Senator Robert Taft, Jr. and Samuel Beard “to establish a Nobel Prize for public and community service.” Dr. Gilda Rorro was honored with a Lifetime Service Award for “lifelong commitment to volunteerism” and enduring and extraordinary service to community, which she continues to this day, at 80 years old. Dr. Mary Rorro was honored for “extraordinary volunteer service in support of veterans.” Dr. Mary Rorro said, “My mother has always served as an inspiration and significant role model, earning her doctorate in education and subsequently becoming an honorary diplomat for Italy. Her love and devotion enabled me to be fulfilled as a physician and musician and aspire to help so many others, to live by her and my father’s example. It was a memorable and gratifying experience to be recognized together as mother and daughter for this meaningful award.”
