< back to News Headlines

Dozens of colleagues, students and friends gathered Thursday in the University Club to celebrate the life and five-decade career of David Ross Boyd Professor Alexander J. Kondonassis.

Kondonassis, who holds a doctorate in economics, started his career at OU in September 1958, according to a biography distributed at the reception.

“We may never have another faculty member who reaches this milestone,” said Nancy Mergler, OU senior vice president and provost. “Everyone I have ever talked with continues to appreciate the kindness and diplomatic skills of Alex [Kondonassis] — what a remarkable role model for younger faculty. He is a superb teacher and scholar, and truly a fine human being.”

In recognition of his service to the university, OU President David L. Boren presented a trophy from the Seed Sower Society to Kondonassis.

“He symbolizes the impact of a great teacher on so many students,” he said.

Boren told the crowd Kondonassis is the first person to be inducted into the society based solely on his service to the university.

He said many financial contributors have helped improve the university, but Kondonassis’ contribution as a professor has been “priceless.”

Boren said he was amazed when he looked at the list of accomplishments Kondonassis had achieved during his career.

According to the biography distributed at the event, Kondonassis has accumulated many accomplishments and accolades.

One of them involved the Gov. Brad Henry declaring May 17, 2005, A.J. Kondonassis Day.

Every person who addressed the crowd spoke of Kondonassis’ magnetism, his teaching skills and his greatness as a person.

Paul Bell Jr., College of Arts and Sciences dean, praised Kondonassis for his teaching ability and for being an “outstanding” human being.

James Pappas, vice president of University Outreach and College of Liberal Studies dean, presented Kondonassis with a globe and plaque in honor of his service to the university. Pappas quoted the movie “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” in reference to Kondonassis’ Greek origins.

“There are two kinds of people in this world: Greeks, and those who want to be Greek,” Pappas said.

He joked he may not agree with that statement, but there are many students, teachers and administrators who want to be like Kondonassis.

Economics graduate student Norman Maynard said he took one of Kondonassis’ classes as an undergraduate. Maynard said he attended the reception because Kondonassis inspired him to go on to graduate school and learn more about economics.

“I’m kind of sad for the students who won’t have him,” Maynard said. “They won’t get to hear all of his stories.”

Kondonassis’ Awards

• David Ross Boyd Professor, 1970
• Regents Professor, 1993
• Inducted into Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame, 1996
• Southwest Social Science Association’s Distinguished Service Award, 2005
• Published 80 books, monographs and articles

Source: Reception program