United Way of Northern New York
Established in 1997, the United Way of Northern New York Joseph P. Landauer Memorial Scholarship honors the memory of Joseph P. Landauer, a man who lived a life of service to his country and community. Mr. Landauer’s military career and role in the community epitomize what it means to make a difference in this world and are an example of hard work and dedication to the greater community.
This scholarship is awarded to a second year student with financial need who shows evidence of community service and academic potential.
Joseph P. Landauer was born December 15, 1907 in Seattle, Washington. He graduated from Broadway High School in Seattle, and received a bachelor of business administration degree in 1931 from the University of Washington. In 1940, he married Loretta Crowley and they had three daughters, Susan, Carol Jean, and JoAnn.
Joseph also began his military career as Colonel in 1940 at Fort Lewis in Washington, serving as the assistant Post Exchange officer. He also served there as inspector general from 1942 to 1951. From 1951 to his retirement after 20 years military service, he served as comptroller of several commands, some in the United States and three years in France. One of those assignments was at Camp Drum, which is modern day Fort Drum, New York. He served as executive officer to the Camp Drum commander until his retirement in 1960.
During his dedicated military service, Col. Landauer served in the Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II. He also was the inspector general of the 25th Infantry Division, for two years, in occupied Japan. For his service during WWII, Col. Landauer received the Bronze Star and three battle stars. He then later served with the 25th Infantry Division in the Korean War and was awarded the Legion of Merit and five battle stars for his service in Korea.
After his 20 year military career, Joseph continued his dedication to serve as the Executive Director of the United Way of Jefferson County for 12 years. During his term with the United Way, it grew to countywide status and doubled the annual Red Feather’s Drive funds, which at the time was the main source of funding.
Joseph Landauer was actively involved in the Watertown, NY community. He served as former president of the Watertown Rotary Club and received the first Paul Harris award in the club’s history. He volunteered with the American Red Cross, Northern New York Blood Bank, Office of the Aging, helped organize the Dispute Resolution Center, served as president of Council of Social Agencies, president of the Jefferson County Safety Council, former president of the Retired Officers Club of Northern New York, and he helped form the Community Action Planning Council.
The Jefferson Community College Foundation is grateful to the United Way of Northern New York for creating the Joseph P. Landauer Memorial Scholarship. Through this scholarship, not only will the memory of Joseph live on, but the example of allegiance to country and service to community that he represents, will continue to change lives throughout this community.