Each year, The Citadel School of Business Administration dedicates one evening to business leaders who embody the ideals of the school. Dubbed the Business Hall of Fame Dinner, this year's event took place on Thursday, April 13 and was attended by approximately 200 people.
Jeanne Mehrtens, budget and event coordinator for the School of Business Administration, said it is a "great opportunity for goodwill for our Citadel family." Mehrtens has organized the event since its inception.
Each year, prominent Leaders of Principle are inducted into the Hall of Fame. These leaders have enjoyed substantial success in business or public service and have made significant contributions to their communities. Anyone can nominate a person for this award, and candidates may be living or non-living residents of South Carolina or another state and/or graduates of The Citadel or other colleges or universities. Moreover, the recipient’s values should support those of the School of Business. This year, three prominent Leaders of Principle were inducted into the Hall of Fame. These leaders included President Ronald Wilson Reagan, the 40th president of the United States; Mr. Raymond G. Johnson, a founding Citadel School of Business Administration Advisory Board member and founding Chair of the Board’s Leadership Committee; and Mr. Gerald Ogier, President/CEO and Chairman of the Board of ContraVest, an active member of The Citadel School of Business Administration Advisory Board and Chair of the Board’s Undergraduate Committee.
 A venerable receiving line welcomed guests to the 2006 School of Business Hall of Fame Banquet held in the Holliday Alumni Center April 13. |
During the event, the Alvah H. Chapman, Jr. Distinguished Leadership Award, an award recognizing an outstanding young leader, was given to John A. McAllister. McAllister founded John McAllister Realty Consulting in 2001 and serves as Broker in Charge. He has over 24 years experience in the real estate profession and is licensed to practice real estate in South Carolina and Georgia. McAllister is a graduate of The Citadel Class of 1980 and has served on the Board of Visitors.
Students in the top 10% of the senior class, the top 7% of the junior class, or the top 20% of the master's program were also honored with invitations to join Beta Gamma Sigma. By accepting membership, the students receive lifetime recognition for their outstanding academic achievement in the study of business.
"The Citadel Business Hall of Fame continues to astound," said Dean Earl Walker. "This year the induction of President Ronald Reagan, an award accepted by former Marine Corps Commandant Gen. P.X. Kelley, provided one of the most inspirational speeches ever given at The Citadel. Furthermore, the other leader of principal awardees, Ray Johnson and Gerry Ogier, are models of highly ethical, principled leadership. Finally, the Alvah Chapman Distinguished Leadership Award winner, John McAllister, is a model of an emerging leader who has already had a dramatic impact on his community.
"Our fervent hope is that more Citadel stakeholders will attend this spectacular event coordinated by Ms. Jeanne Mehrtens who continues to provide a spectacular experience for all who attend."
The Hall of Fame dinner is underwritten School of Business Administration Advisory Board members from The Class of 1965: James J. Kerr, William A Moody, Jr., Gerald Ogier and Edward T. Pendarvis.
Mehrtens said that planning is already well underway for next year's Hall of Fame dinner.
