University Communications and Marketing

April 15, 2016

Contacts:

Barbara Wheeling, College of Business, 657-2326
Shannon Behounek, MSUB Foundation, 657-1626
University Communications and Marketing, 657-2266

MSU BILLINGS NEWS SERVICES — A ceremony featuring actor, author, director and producer Henry Winkler is slated for Oct. 11 at the Radisson Hotel Billings to honor the trailblazing vision of Montana business leaders.

The Montana State University Billings Foundation announced today the keynote speaker as well as a call for nominations for the third annual “An Evening with….” fall fundraiser event.

The Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding businessmen and women who have made significant and enduring contributions to their business, industry, and communities through extraordinary leadership.

College of Business Dean Barbara Wheeling said Hall of Fame inductees exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit of Montana.

“The Hall of Fame creates an awareness of appreciation of Montana’s rich heritage of business leadership,” College of Business Dean Barbara Wheeling said.

To be inducted, nominees are selected based on a number of criteria, such as their level of business leadership and ethics, willingness to take risks, concern for customers and employees, innovation and impact on their community and the state’s economy.

Hall of Fame inductees will be honored during the “An Evening with Henry Winkler” dinner event.

Winkler’s portrayal of “The Fonz” for 10 seasons on Happy Days from 1974 until 1984 made him one of the most recognized actors in the world, winning two consecutive Golden Globe Awards and three Emmy nominations for Best Actor in a Comedy Series. He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the leather jacket the character wore has hung in The Smithsonian since 1980.

In addition to a successful acting career, Winkler began writing a series of children’s novels in 2003. The books are inspired by Winkler’s struggle throughout his education due to his learning challenges and have appeared on several best seller lists including The New York Times and The Los Angeles Times.

Behind the scenes, Winkler has also made his mark as a producer and director, producing more than 20 television series and specials. Winkler has used his fame to help others, particularly children, and serves on numerous national charities.

Tickets for the dinner event are $100 per person. Individuals who choose to join the MSUB Foundation Chancellor’s Circle with a $1,000 tax-deductible gift will have the opportunity to meet and be photographed with Winkler. Seating is limited.

The event also honors the 2016 class of the MSUB College of Business Montana Hall of Fame. The hall of fame is designed to honor, preserve and perpetuate the names and outstanding accomplishments of Montana business leaders who have enhanced the state’s business climate and made significant contributions to their communities.

Last year’s class included Don and Marilyn Floberg, of Billings, Greg Gianforte, of Bozeman, and Tom Scott, of Dayton, Wyo. These individuals were honored at “An Evening with Terry Bradshaw” dinner on September 10, 2015.

At least two new members will be inducted this year. Nominations for the 2016 class must be submitted by May 1.

Submit nominations online by May 1 for consideration. More information on the Montana Business Hall of Fame can be found at https://www.msubillings.edu/mbhof/.

Contact Shannon at 406-657-1626 to join the Chancellor’s Circle or purchase tickets to the Oct. 11 event.