The University of Findlay, Findlay OH, has announced a new undergraduate student entrepreneurial program has been funded by the late Dr. Vernon E. Garner, founder of the Garner Transportation Group and a member of the University’s board. Titled the “Dr. Vernon E. Garner Endowed Fund for Entrepreneurial Excellence” and funded through a $300,000 gift by Dr. Garner, the program will allow students the opportunity to compete for loans for start up companies created with faculty guidance.
Each student interested in competing for a loan will have to submit a written business plan to be reviewed by an advisory board, which will include Sherri Brumbaugh, Dr. Garner’s daughter. Students can submit proposals beginning in the spring semester of 2008.
“This incubator of entrepreneurial businesses was inspired by Dr. Garner’s own life, and he serves as a brilliant example to our students of what is possible through good planning, hard work and an indomitable spirit,” said Dr. Paul Sears, dean of the College of Business at Findlay.
Dr. Garner, formerly president of the American Trucking Assns. (ATA), started the company, then known as Garner Trucking Inc., in 1960 with his wife Regina and one truck, focusing solely on transporting agricultural products. It now includes transportation, expediting, warehousing, logistics management, third-party services, contract maintenance, and transportation consulting, with Regina Garner serving as co-owner, chairman & CEO.
“We were extremely fortunate to have had Dr. Vernon Garner as a member of the Board of Trustees for 16 years,” said Dr. DeBow Freed, Findlay president. “He brought keen insight and great wisdom to the board. His life is a shining example of what can be accomplished through hard work, dedication, and perseverance. His fine personal qualities and commitment to excellence will now live on through students who will be assisted by the fund that bears his name.”
