DONALD G. BELL

The Lincoln High School Academic Society announces that Donald G. Bell has been selected to receive their Distinguished Alumni Award for 1998.

Bell is the son of Albin H. and Martha Bell of Vincennes. He was graduated from Lincoln High School in 1948. He was a member of the band and orchestra, wrote for the Old Post Sentinel, the Senior Sentinel Yearbook, and served as secretary of the HiY.

Bell earned an associate degree from Vincennes University in 1950, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Indiana University in 1952. He was called to serve in the U.S. Army and did so unti.1 1954. He then returned to Indiana University and earned his law degree in 1957.

Bell returned to Vincennes and began a law career that would span 40 years. At his retirement, he was senior partner in the law firm of Hart, Bell, Cummings, Ewing & Stuckey. He served as attorney and general counsel for Vincennes University for 39 years. He also served as president of the Knox County Bar Association, was a member of the Indiana Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission, and was a long time member of the State Board of Law Examiners, which he served as president from 1985-87.

Bell. was a member of the Vincennes University Foundation Board of Directors for more than 30 years and was its legal advisor. He was a leading contributor to the building fund for the Dayson Alumni. Center, and made a special contribution to the Foundation to endow the George R.Tolson Memorial Scholarship for students majoring in English or Theater.

Bell is a member of the Board of Directors of 1st BANCORP and First Federal Bank, and has served as attorney for the Vincennes Housing Authority and the South Knox School Corporation. He has most graciously given time, leadership and energy to numerous boards, fund drives and community efforts throughout his career, including the Vincennes YMCA, Vincennes Area Chamber of Commerce, Knox County United Way, Vincennes Kiwanis Club, and the Knox County Cancer Society. He has been an active member of St. John's United Church of Christ, serving as president and secretary of its board.

Bell has been well recognized for his community service and support. He received the 1995 Community Service Award given by the Vincennes Area Chamber of Commerce. He also received the Citizen of the Year Award in 1992 from the Vincennes Civitan Club and the Distinguished Service Award in 1995 from the Vincennes Junior Chamber of Commerce. In 1997, Vincennes University bestowed on Bell their prestigious Walter A. Davis Citation.

Bell is now retired and resides in Vincennes.

Distinquished Alumni 1998

Class of 1948