2003 Georgetown College Commencement, The John Carroll Medal of Merit Citation
There is no more fitting place to celebrate Rev. Joseph T. Durkin, S.J.'s 100th birthday than amidst the traditions and rituals, excitement and ceremony that characterizes our recognition of the academic achievements of a graduating class. Indeed it seems much more than coincidence that the centennial of this accomplished teacher and scholar precisely coincides with Commencement Exercises.
For nearly 60 years, Father Durkin, now Professor Emeritus of History, has been a vital member of the Georgetown community. As a teacher and mentor, he has deeply influenced the minds and hearts of generations of University graduates, earning their enduring esteem and abiding affection. He has likewise shaped our academic community itself in profound and visionary ways, serving as one of the founders of Georgetown's American Studies Program, which was presaged by his own "American Civilization" course and which is now a prominent part of the curriculum. And he has carefully researched and analyzed and engagingly recorded for the benefit of all of us in the Georgetown family three volumes on the University's history: Swift Potomac's Lovely Daughter: Two Centuries at Georgetown Through Students' Eyes (1990); Georgetown University: First in the Nation's Capital (1964); Georgetown University: The Middle Years, 1840-1900 (1963). An American historian, Father Durkin has also published a number of books on Civil War figures and has helped to document the history of the Society of Jesus.
Father Durkin's dedication to students' formation focused not only on their intellects, but also their spirits. Through his deep and vital involvement in the retreat programs in particular, he guided many in this community in invaluable experiences of prayer and reflection. After 70 years of religious life, still today Father Durkin has an active ministry, reaching out in particular to Alzheimer's patients and prison inmates.
In 1970, Georgetown awarded Father Durkin a doctorate of humane letters, honoris causa, in recognition of his contributions to the life of the University and the Golden Jubilee of his entrance into the Society. Today, as we celebrate the 100th birthday of this remarkable figure in the institution's history and his commitment to sustaining Archbishop Carroll's founding vision for this academic community, the President and Directors are pleased to award him the John Carroll Medal of Merit.
