Gwynne Stephens Taylor C'72 received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the Algernon Sidney Sullivan Award and the Distinguished Alumna Award.
Several students receive awards during the banquet, held during Salem's Celebration of Academic Excellence.
Salem will mark the historic occasion on April 27 with several events.
The gift from Robert E. Elberson is one of the largest in school history.
The acclaimed author of the Sookie Stackhouse series visits Salem on May 7.
Student Affairs staff members appointed to two of the organization's committees.
The Salem Model UN Club earned two awards at the event in New York City.
Former Enron VP, Sherron Watkins, will speak about ethics and leadership on April 12.
The School of Music Director was honored with a surprise reception.