Dorita Tessier receives Community Service Award

Dorita Tessier ’80, director for gift planning, was awarded the WWU Community Service Award this year at the annual Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce awards celebration in February.

“Her Christ-like care for all—colleagues, students, community members, alumni, and donors—is evident in the time and care she invests in each one,” said Troy Patzer, associate vice-president for advancement.

According to WWU president John McVay, Tessier’s attentiveness, genuine care, and expertise have led to authentic connections with donors, raising many millions of dollars of support to the university, providing students the recourses to pursue their dreams.

She has exemplified generous service beyond her work at the university, as an active Walla Walla Exchange Club member since 2002, organizing conference registration for a multi-state council on education support, and coordinating for the Milton Murray Foundation. She has also volunteered for Love Heals Clinic, the Christian Aid Center, at her local church, and more.