Harold Rakov Memorial Award
Dr. Harold Rakov came to SUNY Brockport as a professor of social studies in 1949 following his service in the US Air Force during World War II. Before the war, Dr. Rakov attended the Oswego Normal School and earned his bachelor’s degree at Syracuse University in 1938. Until his enlistment in 1943, Dr. Rakov studied toward his PhD at Syracuse. After the war, he completed his doctoral degree, and then accepted the social studies position at Brockport.
On campus, Dr. Rakov served in several administrative positions beginning in 1952, including director of admissions, dean of students, director of graduate studies, associate dean for graduate affairs, and vice president for student affairs. In 1975, he returned to teaching as a professor of political science, also serving as department chair. When he retired in 1983, after 34 years of exemplary service, he received the professor emeritus distinction. He passed away in 1985.
During the rededication of the Rakov Center for Student Services that the College renamed in his memory, speakers recalled that Dr. Rakov made a difference in the lives of thousands of students, providing motivation, inspiration, and challenges. Students and colleagues also remembered him as a tall, cheerful man who whistled as he walked across campus.
Dr. Rakov and the Department of Political Science initiated the scholarship in his name when he retired. After his passing, his family significantly contributed to the scholarship fund, and renamed the fund in his memory.
The Harold Rakov Memorial Award recognizes a political science major who demonstrates outstanding academic performance and professional promise. To qualify for this award, students must be enrolled undergraduate students in good standing who are in their junior year at the time of application. In addition to being a declared major in political science, applicants must demonstrate excellent academic performance as shown by a 3.5 or better overall GPA and a 3.5 or better GPA in political science courses, and they must demonstrate participation and leadership in cocurricular and community activities. This award is made without regard to financial need.