Jim and Marilyn Pollard are the recipients of the Randolph-Macon College Society of Alumni’s Distinguished Friend Award. The award was presented on September 13, 2011 at the Hanover Club Reception. Tom Bass ’54 presented the award.
The Distinguished Friend Award was created to honor friends of R-MC who have rendered unusual and unselfish service to the college, students, faculty and alumni.
The Pollards are leading citizens of Ashland and Hanover County, and their involvement in civic, business, and church organizations and activities is impressive—and inspiring.
Their smiling faces can often be seen on campus as they cheer on the Yellow Jackets, attend cultural arts events, or take an evening stroll. They are part of many communities, and we are grateful that they are members of our Randolph-Macon College community. The Pollards are among our most cherished friends.
The Pollards are generous and consistent supporters of R-MC at the Presidents Society level. In addition, they gave to the Brock Sports and Recreation Center project, and a room therein is named for them. Jim also co-chaired the Hanover County Division of the Our Heritage: Our Future Capital Campaign, 1984-87. Finally, Jim and Marilyn provided the needed funds to help establish an endowed scholarship in memory of Richard H. C. Taylor ’52, who died in 2002.
As owner of J. M Pollard & Sons Oil Co. in Ashland and president of the James and Marilyn Pollard Foundation, Jim also manages to find the time—and energy—to serve as president of the Ashland Kiwanis Club. Given his dedication and generosity, we should not be surprised to know that he earned the Kiwanis Club’s coveted Hickson Award for outstanding service and leadership. Jim has also served on the YMCA board, and he and Marilyn have supported generously the YMCA annual and capital campaigns.
We are truly grateful to the Pollards for their dedication to Randolph-Macon College.