Mr. Bezanson, of counsel in the firm Cohen & Gresser, LLP in New York City, is a member of many professional organizations and the recipient of various awards, notably for his pro bono work. Mr. Bezanson’s connection to UMass dates back to 1964 when his father, Philip T. Bezanson, was appointed head of the Music Department. A renowned professor of English at UMass, Ron Welburn teaches American Literature, critical writing, Native American literatures, and American Studies courses. He also directs the undergraduate Native American Indian Studies Certificate Program. Prof. Welburn is a widely published poet whose work was included in “Best American Poetry 1996.”