The Rhodes Trust recognises extraordinary volunteer service each year through the George Parkin Distinguished Service Awards.
The vitality of the Rhodes community depends on the dedication of Scholars who contribute their time and expertise in diverse ways. Volunteers support outreach to prospective candidates, organise alumni events and reunions around the world, and mentor Scholars as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. Others serve on advisory committees, lead Alumni Associations, and provide strategic guidance to Trust initiatives. Most notably, more than 600 volunteer Selectors across 25 constituencies serve on over 60 selection committees meeting on five continents each year, ensuring the continued excellence of the Rhodes Scholarship.
We are profoundly grateful for all of these contributions, which together sustain and strengthen the Rhodes community worldwide. The following individuals have been recognised this year for their distinguished service:
Dr Cristina A. Bejan (North Carolina & Wadham 2004)
Cristina has been a tireless advocate for Rhodes Scholars in the creative arts, a community long under-recognised within the Rhodes network. She has championed their visibility through contributions to the “120 Books from 120 Years” feature, inspiring the celebration of Scholars in the arts on the Rhodes website, and by co-running a dedicated Facebook group to connect and amplify artistic voices. Her advocacy has helped challenge stereotypes of what a Rhodes Scholar “should” be, ensuring that artists are valued alongside peers in more traditional fields.
Mr Ronald S. Katz (Missouri & Balliol 1967)
Since joining the AARS Board in 2018, Ron has brought vision and energy to strengthening Rhodes community engagement. He originated and implemented the idea of international collaborative webinars, co-convened with Scholar associations in Germany, Australia, and India, on topics of global significance such as the war in Ukraine, US–India technology collaboration, and the rise of China. Ron has also expanded alumni connections through initiatives including a 350-person speakers bureau, major reunion events in Oxford and California, and a significant increase in both class reunions and local gatherings. His creativity and commitment continue to enrich the Scholar community worldwide.
Mr Rick Lee AM (New South Wales & Worcester 1971)
Rick has been a steadfast advocate for establishing a Rhodes constituency in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific, working tirelessly with the Trust, corporate partners, and fellow Scholars to lay the groundwork for a future scholarship in the region. A generous supporter of the Trust, he has also inspired giving among his peers, leading his 1971 cohort in raising $71,000 for the 120th Anniversary and advising other classes to follow suit. As a Class Leader and mentor, Rick exemplifies dedication, philanthropy, and persistence in strengthening the Rhodes community worldwide.
Mr Prashant Sarin (India & St Peter’s 2001)
Since 2013, Prashant has been an invaluable advisor and community builder for the Trust, serving on the India Selection Committee and playing a leading role in shaping Warden’s trips to Silicon Valley and India for over a decade. He has introduced the Trust to key philanthropic partners, personally facilitating and cultivating relationships that have advanced the creation of new Scholarships for India. A dedicated mentor to younger Scholars, Prashant embodies the lifelong fellowship of Rhodes, giving generously of his time, expertise, and passion to strengthen the community and advance its global mission.
Professor Elleke Boehmer (South-Africa-at-Large & St John’s 1985) and Luan Staphorst
In an exceptional joint contribution, Elleke and Luan were central to the creation of the |xam parapet acknowledgement carving at Rhodes House, a project that permanently and visibly addresses the Trust’s history. Elleke’s years of research, leadership on the LEI Advisory Groups, and commitment to engaging alumni and South African communities ensured broad consensus and deep sensitivity to context. Luan, a linguist and Mandela Rhodes Scholar, brought vital expertise in the |xam language, leading the translation and facilitating dialogue with community elders to ground the work in authenticity. Together they oversaw the translation process, advised the stone carver, and co-authored an article to share its meaning publicly. Their collaboration has left a profound and enduring legacy, embedding acknowledgement and inclusion into the very fabric of Rhodes House for future generations.