Three Alumni Heroes

By Art Walenta, Barrington Hall, 1953-57

Alumni Association Vice President

We are pleased to announce three major contributions to the USCA scholarship funds. Valerie Yasukochi and James Duff have made a $50,000 contribution in memory of George Yasukochi; Harper Puziss has added a $40,000 contribution to his existing scholarship funds; and Judy Kiraly Gilmore has donated $10,000 to establish a semesterly scholarship that benefits women residing in Hoyt Hall.

George Yasukochi resided in Oxford Hall from 1938 to 1942. After World War II, George became the Accountant and Controller for the USCA. Those of us who were students in the 1950’s and 1960’s and had workshifts in the Central Office knew George as a stern but warm and exceedingly efficient financial officer. His work contributed in a major way to the growth and financial standing of the USCA. After the 1960’s, George became the Chief Financial Officer of the Berkeley grocery cooperative, and he served that organization until its sad demise. George was a founding member of the USCA Alumni Association and served on its Board of Directors. He organized and initially funded the USCA Pioneer Award program, which awards scholarships to students who provide exemplary service to the organization. George was voted USCA Alumni of the Year in 2003. His lifelong dedication to the cooperative movement and his wise and helpful advice to many have led to the high regard in which he was held during his lifetime and the honor we give to his memory.

Harper Puziss lived in Oxford Hall from 1946 to 1950. After graduation, he went to work as a teacher in the Richmond Unified School District. Harper was one of the founders of the USCA Alumni Association and served on its Board of Directors until 2006. He always brought refreshments to make our meetings more pleasant and comfortable, and he was noted for his commonsense positions and advice to the organization. Several years ago, I was delighted to learn that Harper was providing funds to award scholarships to students based first on co-op involvement, then on academic achievement, and finally on financial need. His latest contribution will continue this fine program to aid future students. In 2007, Harper was voted USCA Alumni of the Year.

Judy Kiraly Gilmore lived in Hoyt Hall between 1955 and 1959. For Judy, living in a co-op was the only choice; sororities were not in line with her beliefs in open membership and democracy. She quickly found a home and companionship in Hoyt and served as House Manager for her last two years. When asked of her time in the Co-op, she says that her most valuable experience was learning to accommodate, live and work with women older and younger than herself. Judy has established her scholarship to benefit Hoyt Hall women who have financial need and exhibit academic excellence.

The commitment and generous and effective contributions of these three alumni should serve as an example for us all.

To contribute online, click here.