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October 18, 2008

Alumni Association presents Golden Arrow Award to Bruce Boulware

President James Cofer presented his “close associate and thought partner” Bruce Boulware with the Golden Arrow Award at the Alumni Association Awards Brunch today.

The Golden Arrow Award, established by the alumni association in 1981, recognizes alumni who serve the alumni association well; it is the association’s most prestigious honor.

Cofer said, “People often note the improvements we’ve made to this campus during the past 6 years. Just as important are the improvements we’ve made internally: providing more opportunities for students, faculty and staff. I met Bruce and his wife Liz, also an avid supporter of our university, about a year after I arrived. Since that time, Bruce, the Chief Operating Officer of O’Melveny & Myers, LLP, the nation’s 15th largest law firm, has contributed to our university in ways that will benefit our university family for generations to come.”

The Boulwares reside in Napa, California and New Orleans. They often visit to give back with time and expertise, as well as financially. A few of their contributions include: the Bruce and Lizabeth Boulware Professorship in Management; College of Business Internship Support Fund; College of Business Capital Fund; and the Berry Allen and Reita Meeks McKenzie Case Classroom. Bruce and Liz also participate in the annual College of Business Symposium, where they mentor students.

Bruce’s efforts reach beyond the College of Business. Bruce and Liz supported the Clarke M. Williams Student Success Center; University Residence, now named Bon Aire; and ’s Annual Giving Fund. Bruce has also hosted team-building workshops for the president, deans and faculty.

Cofer said, “Bruce challenges us; he wants to make sure this institution grows and prospers, and we appreciate that continued push. Bruce’s philanthropic endeavors at this institution ensure that our students are exposed to new opportunities in today’s business world. He was instrumental in starting the internship program at this institution, a program that is now exploding. We are sending kids to London, Dallas, San Francisco, Quebec and all over the world because of Bruce’s support and encouragement. Bruce’s footprint at is significant, and we are truly grateful and proud to call him an alum, a friend, and a leader.”

Bruce thanked his alma matter and spoke about the institution’s future.

He said, “This is an institution that I’m extremely proud of. The education I received here has allowed me to compete with graduates from Harvard and Yale. We have to continue to provide those kinds of opportunities for folks in this region. It is not just about the bricks and mortar, although that aspect is spectacular. It’s also about the people and the dedication. We are going in the right direction, and the best is yet to come. I am so proud of this place.”

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