The Cornell University Board of Trustees recently elected four emeritus trustees and five presidential councillors in recognition of their distinguished service to the university.

"The new emeritus trustees and presidential councillors have demonstrated a deep commitment to our university over an extended period," said Peter C. Meinig '61, chairman of the board. "I am delighted that my colleagues on the board have honored their service in ways that will keep them involved with their alma mater for years to come."

Added Cornell President David Skorton: "As the university approaches its sesquicentennial in 2015, our emeritus trustees and presidential councillors will play critical roles in reminding us of our unique history and enduring institutional values. We will continue to rely on their wisdom and vast knowledge in charting the university's future."

The emeritus trustees are: C. Morton Bishop III '74; Franci J. Blassberg '75, J.D. '77; Dwight L. Bush Sr. '79; and Martin Y. Tang '70. The board considers trustees for emeritus status if they have completed at least two terms of distinguished service to the board. The board also elected those emeritus trustees and David R. Atkinson '60 presidential councillors, a distinction conferred for life and the highest honor the board can bestow. Presidential councillors give their wisdom and advice on large matters of university interest at the request of the president.

Atkinson has served two terms on the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Advisory Council. A resident of Yardley, Penn., he is also a life member of Cornell University Council. Bishop, of Portland, Ore., first served on the board as an alumni-elected trustee from 2002 to 2006. He was re-elected as a trustee-at-large for another four-year term. Blassberg was elected to the board in 2002 and has served two four-year terms. She is a resident of New York City. Bush was first elected to the board in 2002 and served two four-year terms. He lives in Washington, D.C. Tang, a resident of Hong Kong, completed his fourth term as an at-large member of the board, having been first elected in 1994.