By Darryl Geddes
The park on Uptown Road in the village of Lansing has been renamed in honor of Philip R. Dankert, collection development librarian at the Catherwood Library in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations, in recognition of his exceptional commitment to youth of the Ithaca area.
The park was officially renamed the Philip R. Dankert Village Park during ceremonies last September, when Lansing Village Mayor Ted Wixom praised Dankert for his dedication, calling him the "patron saint" of volunteers.
"It was a surprise to me to be honored in such a way," said Dankert, who joined Cornell 33 years ago. "I do my volunteer work because it's something I enjoy. I don't do it for any sort of recognition, so this honor is quite humbling."
Dankert's volunteer service to youth has been extensive. He currently is a member of the Tompkins County Youth Board and is chairman of the Recreation Partnership Board. Previously, Dankert has served as a member and committee chairman of the Ithaca Youth Bureau Board of Advisors, the Village of Lansing Parks and Recreation Committee, the Joint Youth Commission, as program adviser for the Cayuga Heights and Northeast schools' ski programs, as cubmaster and member of the Boy Scout Troop committee, and as a member of the board of directors of the Ithaca Youth Hockey Association. In addition, Dankert coached Kiwanis baseball for nearly a decade.
When time permits, Dankert serves as a volunteer fireman for the Lansing Fire Department.
"My volunteer activities all began when I participated with my children in youth activities," he said. "I was able to see the joy and benefit of being a part of these activities, so I've been volunteering ever since."
Dankert and his wife, Ginny, reside in the Village of Lansing.