Each year, the San Antono Chapter of Finance Executive International (FEI) awards scholarships to outstanding finance and accounting students nominated by faculty members at area colleges and universities. The awards are given in recognition of excellence in scholarship, leadership, and service.
This year, TLU juniors Jake Gilbreath and Ryker Purdy received FEI San Antonio’s Dr. Keith A. Russell Memorial Award for Academic Excellence. The honor comes with an invitation to an awards reception, where attendees are encouraged to network with others in the business field.
Gilbreath, an accounting major, is a President’s List honoree and SCAC Academic Honor Roll baseball player. He is a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and a volunteer at the TLU food pantry and Day of the Dogs, as well as the Salvation Army. “I am very grateful to have been selected to receive the award,” says Gilbreath, who is preparing for a career in forensic accounting. “I met some intelligent and successful people through the opportunity, and I got to develop connections for my future pursuits as I begin a career path. The FEI scholarship was a real blessing, both financially and for networking.” Gilbreath thanks his professors, family, and friends for their ongoing support. “The award shows that hard work doesn't go unnoticed and that doors can be opened when striving to do your best,”
Purdy, a finance major, is an All-SCAC Honorable Mention running back in TLU football, has been on the Dean’s and President’s Lists, is treasurer of the Civic Club, and is an avid community volunteer. He is an analyst for the Bulldog Investment Company, helping to manage a $2 million portfolio. “I greatly appreciate this award, generously given through the FEI scholarship. Balancing sports and academics is not easy. Getting recognition for my hard work feels nice and further motivates me to continue building my foundation for the future,” says Purdy, who is looking toward a career in hedge fund management. “This FEI award will offset some of my financial burden, giving me the privilege of reducing my debt, something I know will greatly benefit me in the years to come.” He feels a sense of satisfaction in being recognized, but plans to keep his momentum as he heads into his senior year. “I will continue to push the extent of my abilities in academics and the other things I engage in with hopes of becoming a successful financier.”
“Each year the business faculty are excited to nominate two TLU students, majoring in either finance or accounting, who have exhibited academic excellence, leadership, and service on campus and in the community,” says Dr. Mark Peacock, associate professor and director of TLU’s MBA program. “Jake and Ryker are outstanding students, whose performance both in and out of the classroom position them to accomplish great things in their careers.”