Eleanor Meredith '73, 2024 Barbara Boggs Sigmund Awardee

In 2024, Stuart posthumously honored Eleanor Meredith, class of 1973, with the Barbara Boggs Sigmund Award, recognizing her exceptional social awareness and impact on society. Eleanor, remembered as a “force to be reckoned with,” began her remarkable journey at Stuart, setting the stage for a life of advocacy and achievement.

Eleanor attended Georgetown University, where she excelled in varsity field hockey and was invited to the U.S. women’s national team. Identifying a gap, she successfully advocated for a Georgetown women’s lacrosse team and secured funding from the men’s basketball coach, John Thompson Jr. Her efforts earned her the Washington, D.C. Woman Athlete of the Year title and established a thriving women’s lacrosse program at Georgetown.

Graduating in 1977 with a degree in English Literature, Eleanor’s career began at Chase Manhattan Bank, where she met her husband, Steve. She earned an MBA from Columbia Business School and transitioned from investment banking to entrepreneurship, co-owning Irving Levin Associates. Under her leadership, the firm excelled in market research and earned awards for innovative marketing.

Eleanor’s leadership extended to founding Two Bookends, a nonprofit connecting students and seniors through legacy projects. She also created a mentorship program for industry newcomers. Among her many accomplishments, Eleanor was most proud of her role as a mother and she took immense joy in her children’s success. 

Eleanor, who passed away on October 2, 2021, is remembered with deep respect and affection. Her legacy of warmth and positive impact continues to inspire, celebrating her profound contributions to bettering the world.