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Gift sparks new era: Paul and Lynn Ann Vogel’s transformational gift names the School of Accountancy’s master’s program at the Trulaske College of Business
On hand for the gift celebration were, from left, Vairam Arunachalam, former director of the School of Accountancy and current associate dean for partnerships and engagement, Robin Wenneker, chair of the University of Missouri Board of Curators, Paul Vogel, Lynn Ann Vogel, Balaji Rajagopalan, dean of the Trulaske College of Business, Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri, and Chris Smith, interim vice chancellor for advancement for MU.
The Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business announced today a generous gift from Paul L. and Lynn Ann Vogel, which will name the School of Accountancy’s master's program in their honor. The Paul and Lynn Ann Vogel Master of Accountancy Program is set to enhance the prestige of the school and the Trulaske College of Business while providing vital support for faculty and student success through scholarships, recruitment efforts, academic advising and career placement services.
This landmark contribution not only elevates the program but also positions it as a beacon of innovation within the Trulaske College of Business. It is expected to influence the future of business education across all disciplines in the college and to inspire the integration of leading-edge technologies, experience-centered learning opportunities and partnerships that will benefit students, faculty and the broader business community.
“The business landscape is changing at an unprecedented rate,” said Dean Balaji Rajagopalan. “Advancements in technology are reshaping industries, redefining roles and creating new opportunities. This is especially evident in the field of accounting, where emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain and cloud computing are revolutionizing how business is conducted. These changes demand that we, as an institution, evolve as well — ensuring that our programs are not only relevant but also leading the way in business education.”
Mun Choi, president of the University of Missouri, praised the dedication and adaptability of Mizzou’s faculty and academic programs, which consistently evolve to meet the changing needs of students and the workforce.
"This incredible gift will help us prepare the next generation of business leaders for success,” Choi said. “We are grateful for the extraordinary support of Paul and Lynn Ann Vogel and their commitment to Mizzou, the Trulaske College of Business and our students.”
Vogel, B.S.Acc. ’89, M.Acc. ’90, J.D. ’93, is deeply involved with the university. He serves on the Trlulaske Dean’s Advisory Board (TDAB) and the School of Accountancy Advisory Board, is an adjunct professor in both the School of Accountancy and the MU School of Law. He co-founded the Vogel Law Office in St. Louis with his wife and business partner. Coming from a family of Mizzou alumni, including his father, Leroy Vogel, B.S.B.A. ’66, and his siblings Lisa Vogel, B.S.Acc. ’87, and Jeff Vogel, B.S.Acc. ’90, Paul Vogel’s connection to the university runs deep.
“As a kid from Bowling Green, there was never a thought of going anywhere but Mizzou,” Vogel said. “My dad was an alum, and the accountancy program was well regarded, so I knew this was the place for me.”
Reflecting on his journey, Vogel said that there wasn’t a single “ah-ha” moment that defined his time at Mizzou. Instead, it was a series of smaller, consistently meaningful experiences that led him and his wife, Lynn Ann, to this point.
“When I reflect, it’s crystal clear: for me, it began at Mizzou,” he said. “Being a Tiger is an important part of who I am. That’s why supporting Mizzou students is so important to Lynn Ann and me.”
Vairam Arunachalam, former director of the School of Accountancy and associate dean for Partnerships and Engagement, first met Vogel 33 years ago when he joined the Trulaske faculty. At the time, Vogel was a popular teaching assistant in accounting.
“I used to listen and admire his interactions with the scores of students that came by to see him every day,” Arunachalam said. “Paul is a passionate, enthusiastic and great teacher. The naming of the master’s program will have a lasting impact on the School of Accountancy.”
Robin Wenneker, chair of the University of Missouri Board of Curators, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the Vogel gift marks a new chapter for the Trulaske College of Business.
"On behalf of the University of Missouri Board of Curators, I want to say a most sincere thank you to dear friends Paul and Lynn Ann for their generosity,” she said. “As a proud Trulaske graduate, I am grateful for supporters like the Vogels who provide opportunities for the university to expand and offer students the world-class education we're called to deliver."
Kaile Kalton, a graduate student in accounting, is already seeing the benefits of her education at Trulaske. Following an internship with KPMG in Chicago this summer, she has secured a job with the firm’s St. Louis office upon her graduation in May 2025.
“I was set up for success from the beginning with recruitment events allowing me to explore my options early and giving me access to strong employer and Mizzou alumni networks,” she said. “My success would not have been possible without the resources and support available to me within the Trulaske College of Business and the School of Accountancy.”