The Herbert J. Davenport Society welcomed 21 new members and honored current members’ generous donations and ongoing commitment to the College of Business at its 2005 annual banquet. Held on Homecoming weekend, the event provided the college’s alumni a special opportunity to return to the campus of their alma mater and meet with MU’s leaders, students, and faculty members as well as fellow alumni.
Dean Bruce Walker opened the banquet with an enthusiastic report on College of Business successes during the past year. He also expressed the college’s commitment to the state’s and the university’s initiatives related to economic development and entrepreneurship. In addition, Dean Walker toasted the generosity of Mrs. Robert J. Trulaske, Sr., whose gift to the college had been announced earlier in the day.
Bill Linnenbringer (BS Acc ’70), the 2005 chair of the Davenport Society, praised all of the couples and individuals who had contributed to the success of the college by making financial donations in support of faculty, students, programs, and also Cornell Hall. He then brought the audience to their feet by announcing that the College of Business had raised $54 million, compared to its goal of $40 million, during the five-year For All We Call Mizzou capital campaign.
“I firmly believe in the mission of the Davenport Society and the support it provides the MU College of Business,” said Linnenbringer. “In hearing the dean’s remarks and having the opportunity to interact with the college’s wonderful students, my pride in this great university and the College of Business has only increased.”
Missouri governor Matt Blunt was the keynote speaker. He summarized various economic development programs in the state and explained how research activities at universities contribute to the prosperity of the state. Blunt said that MU, as Missouri’s flagship university, plays an essential role in shaping Missouri’s social, economic, and cultural future.
Tom O’Neal, the college’s executive director of advancement, then recognized and praised advancing members of the Society. He explained that each of the 21 new members had qualified for the Society by making a gift or pledge of at least $25,000 in support of the college. New members were introduced to the banquet audience by College of Business students. The inductees received applause as Dean Walker and MU’s chancellor, Dr. Brady Deaton, presented them with Davenport Society medallions.
The celebration concluded with the energetic music of Marching Mizzou. The band was led into the banquet room by the Homecoming grand marshal, legendary basketball coach Norm Stewart. The event ended with cheers for Coach Stewart, Marching Mizzou, and the prospect of a victory over Iowa State in the Homecoming football game (which was accomplished).
“The Davenport Society celebration offered an enjoyable opportunity to meet alumni and other members,” said Stuart Bascomb (M Acc ’65), a new member who is chairman of Amerisight, Inc. in Chicago and serves on the college’s Strategic Development Board. “It was also inspiring to speak with current students. They are the primary reason all of us are here tonight and the reason why my wife, Phyllis, and I stay involved at Mizzou.” |