2008 Alumni Award Recipients

2008 Alumni Award Recipients

Richard Dillon

Distinguished Alumni Award

Richard Dillon, EOU class of 1971, has a long history of distinguished community, state and national involvement. He is a member of the Idaho Public School Hall of Fame for his 40-year career ranging from educator, to administrator, to the superintendent of schools in Idaho. In addition to leading countless teachers and students throughout the Idaho public school system, Richard is a nationally recognized coach for 56 different teams, holds a 70 percent career win ratio with 35 championships and multiple coach of the year awards. His influence in public school administration is felt throughout the state of Idaho. Eastern is proud to have such a beloved and accomplished alum representing us and one who is most deserving of the Alumni Association’s highest honor.

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Mohsen “Max” Mohammadi

Community Partner Award

Max Mohammadi, EOU class of 1982, came to the United States from Tehran, Iran as a young teenager. As the owner of the Casba Restaurant, Opa Lounge and the Discover Lending Group, he is also a former Boise mayoral candidate and is known as a cornerstone of the Boise community. For the past eight years, Max has opened the doors of his restaurant on Thanksgiving to the less fortunate to ensure that they too have warm food and a festive atmosphere in which to feel thankful. Max is a constant public speaker at churches, charity events, board meetings and schools in Boise. For him, it is a chance to project a favorable image of ethnic and cultural diversity. For others, it is an opportunity to reverse the stereotypes stemming from world conflicts. Max also hosts an annual EOU alumni reception at his restaurant and is eager to continue supporting and promoting Eastern far into the future.