About the Award
The University of Michigan Retirees Association created the Patricia Butler Distinguished Volunteer Award to honor Patricia (Pat) for her years of exceptional service as she retires from the Board in December 2023.
This award recognizes an individual for exceptional service to UMRA members specifically, and U-M retirees in general. Pat’s efforts, on behalf of UMRA, have been instrumental in elevating UMRA’s presence throughout the U-M community. For over 24 years, 5 years as President of the Board of Directors, she tirelessly worked to make UMRA a jewel for U-M retirees emphasizing advocacy, social connections, and just plain fun.
Each year the Association’s board may recognize an UMRA member who exemplifies Pat’s standards, values and energy for presentation at a fall member meeting.
Eligibility
- Members who have dedicated a significant number of years to the organization, as their long-term commitment is valuable.
- Members who have made significant contributions to the mission, who have had a positive impact on the lives of members, who have fostered a spirit of cooperation and collaboration, who have promoted inclusively, and who have consistently exhibited a positive attitude and enthusiasm – as did Pat.
Karen Shill
The recipient of the 2025 Butler Distinguished Volunteer Award is Karen Shill. Karen is one of those quiet forces who profoundly shapes the organizations she touches—not with fanfare or spotlight, but with dedication, vision, and heart. From Food Gatherers, to the Ronald McDonald House, C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, Jewish Family Services, and Maize & Blue Cupboard, Karen has built bridges between UMRA and the wider Southeast Michigan community. Karen embodies everything the Pat Butler Distinguished Volunteer Award represents: leadership, initiative, impact, humility, and heart. She not only organizes volunteer opportunities—she makes sure everyone involved is valued, connected, and having a good time. Through her service, she has not only fulfilled UMRA’s mission—she has elevated it.
Carol Williams
The 2023 Distinguished Volunteer is awarded to Carol Williams, a beacon of unwavering dedication and generosity within the University of Michigan Retirees Association. Since joining in 2014, Carol has been the driving force behind our travel adventures, co-chairing our Travel Committee, and single handedly coordinating each trip with boundless enthusiasm. Her remarkable commitment to organizing eight to ten trips annually has enriched our community immeasurably. Beyond her exceptional leadership, Carols’ efforts and kindness have earned her the affection of all. Her selfless contributions to exemplary service make her a truly outstanding Distinguished Volunteer of the Year for 2023.
