Gordon Scribner Award

The Gordon Scribner Award for Distinguished Service, created to honor Gordon Scribner ’42, former dean of students and director of alumni, is given to an individual who has made a major contribution of volunteer time and effort to Whitman College over an extended period of time and possesses the ability to inspire.

The 2024 Gordon Scribner Award Winner, Robert Brunton ’57

For over six decades, Robert Brunton '57 has embodied the spirit of leadership and service to Whitman College. It is this remarkable lifelong commitment that makes him a deserving recipient of the Gordon Scribner Award for Distinguished Service.

Bob’s involvement began shortly after graduating when he volunteered as a Class Representative, a role he maintained for 14 years. He was then elected to the Alumni Association Board of Directors in 1973 and the Board of Overseers in 1982, serving until 1997. Bob inspired alumni engagement as chair for the Alumni Fund from 1987 to 1990, and a co-chair for his 50th reunion in 2007.

Beyond campus, Bob had an esteemed 40-year career as an ophthalmologist and founder of the Eye Physicians of Olympia clinic. He specialized in innovative procedures like intraocular lens implantation for cataracts. Bob's expertise expanded global access to sight when he traveled to Tonga in 1988, he was among those performing the first-ever lens implant surgery in the Island Kingdom on a medical mission. 

His community leadership continued after retirement when he helped establish the Boys and Girls Clubs of Thurston County, providing mentorship opportunities for youth. The Bruntons have also generously endowed a named scholarship fund to open educational access at Whitman.

For over 60 years, Bob has volunteered his time, talent and philanthropic treasure to elevate Whitman College and various communities worldwide. His unparalleled commitment to service, ability to inspire, and vision for a more equitable society embody the ideals of the Gordon Scribner Award.