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. 

“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 resources to pursue their dreams. 

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

“She looks for beauty and joy in all that she does, and we routinely see her dedication to serving others well illustrated in her work at Walla Walla University,” says Jodi Wagner, vice president for university relations and advancement.

Posted March 11, 2024