Dino M. Hernandez, senior vice president of Advancement at Cleary University, has been named a 2026 recipient of Georgetown University’s prestigious 1820 Graduate Award, one of the institution’s highest honors for alumni service and leadership. This award is given to an alumnus whose life and career reflects leadership, service, and the Jesuit value of cura personalis—care for the whole person.
Hernandez received this award last week at Georgetown University’s alumni association service recognition awards banquet in Washington, DC. Hernandez is a 2010 graduate of Georgetown University.
He recently joined the Cleary team, bringing more than three decades of advancement leadership to the university. His work will focus on strengthening engagement, philanthropy, and long-term institutional advancement in support of Cleary’s mission and students.
“As Cleary prepares for its first comprehensive campaign and approaches its 150th anniversary, Dino’s recognition reflects the values-driven leadership and commitment to service that will guide the university’s next chapter of growth and impact,” announces Alan Drimmer, PhD, Cleary president.
“Dino’s recognition reflects the values he brings to Cleary every day,” Dr. Drimmer continues. “His commitment to service, relationship-building, and purposeful leadership aligns deeply with who we are as a university and where we are headed.”
Recipients of the 1820 Graduate Award represent a distinguished global group of alumni recognized for service and impact, including humanitarian and cancer advocate HRH Princess Ghida Talal of Jordan, a prior honoree.
As the newly named Senior Vice President of Advancement for Cleary, Hernandez is responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive institutional advancement programs, as well as increasing constituent involvement and fundraising outcomes.
“This senior leadership position is critical for Cleary as we strategically focus on growing private giving to the institution over the next seven years,” reports Dr. Drimmer.
“Our key targets for the next several years involve developing meaningful philanthropic partnerships with individuals, local and national foundations and corporations; strengthening stewardship and alumni engagement as well as advancement communications; and implementing best standards and practices,” Dr. Drimmer adds.
“Cleary University is entering an exciting and important period in its history,” Hernandez points out. “I am deeply honored to join President Drimmer and the leadership team at this pivotal time as the university prepares for its first ever comprehensive campaign and its 150th anniversary. Together, we will strengthen a culture of engagement and philanthropy that expands opportunity for students and secures Cleary’s future for generations to come.”
