MMRI Board Members Earn Great Recognition

On March 29, 2025, MMRI board member RW Frank Williams received the DeMolay International Honorary Legion of Honor award during an Investiture ceremony. RW Williams was recognized for his many accolades, including his creation of the “Ride for Missing Children.” Members of MMRI were present for the ceremony held at Utica Lodge #47 to support RW Williams. Congratulations to Frank and all the award recipients!

RW David F. Schneeweiss Receives Distinguished Achievement Award 2025

At the Annual Communication in May 2025, MMRI’s past chairman and president of the board, RW David F. Schneeweiss, received the Grand Lodge of New York’s highest honor—the Distinguished Achievement Award and Medal—presented by Grand Master Steven Adam Rubin. This recognition highlights RW Schneeweiss’ outstanding service to the Masonic fraternity and his long-standing steadfast support of MMRI.

Among his many accomplishments, RW Schneeweiss takes particular pride in the recruitment of Dr. Maria Kontaridis, executive director and Gordon K. Moe professor and chair of biomedical research and translational medicine at MMRI. Under her leadership, MMRI’s scientists have advanced groundbreaking research into devastating diseases, including in heart disease, autism, lupus, post-traumatic stress disorder, diabetes and obesity.

RW Schneeweiss’ generosity over the years is equally remarkable. His personal contributions, totaling more than $600,000, along with the creation of the Schneeweiss Charitable Foundation, ensures lasting support for healthcare and technology. His vision and commitment to philanthropy will continue to benefit communities well into the future.

MMRI proudly extends its heartfelt congratulations to RW David F. Schneeweiss on this prestigious honor and expresses deep gratitude for his lifetime of dedication, generosity and unwavering commitment to helping others.