Pillar of Success and Distinguished Service Awards

Trine recognizes Rick L. James with Pillar of Success and Distinguished Service Awards

ANGOLA, Ind. – Trine University honored Rick L. James with its highest honor, the Pillar of Success Award, during the 17th annual Touchstone Donor Recognition in Ketner Sports Center.

This Pillar of Success award recognizes individuals for their achievements and accomplishments, leadership, service, philanthropy, commitment to their community and their profession and to Trine University. The award has, in the past, honored alumni, friends, faculty, staff and members of the board of trustees.

A 1977 business administration graduate and university trustee, James has enjoyed an amazing career. He has served as chairman and CEO of Metal Technologies for the past thirteen years. Metal Technologies employs many Trine graduates and offers internships to Trine students. Rick was president and chief executive for Auburn Foundry for nine years, and served the company in various other positions, including vice president for sales, sales manager and production manager for 12 years prior to that time.

James is a current member of Trine’s Board of Trustees. James was elected Chair during the Trustee’s homecoming board meeting.

Rick James also received the Trine University 2012 Distinguished Service Award, which is given each year to an alumnus or alumnae who has performed outstanding service to society in his or her profession, personal achievement or community; and who has manifest interest in Trine University and has supported it by contributions of time, talent and money; by recruitment of students; or by placement of graduates.

While James continues to make a nationwide impact in industry, he has impacted the lives of many students at his alma mater. He and his wife, Vicki, have played an instrumental role in the university’s annual Black and White Scholarship Gala for many years. Most recently, they spearheaded the Books and Beyond Scholarship Program, which has raised tens of thousands of dollars for deserving students who need financial assistance with textbooks, class supplies and more.

“Much of the James’ philanthropy is anonymous and takes place behind the scenes,” said Trine University president Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D. “Earlier this year, Rick and Vicki have agreed to lend their name to the Rick L. and Vicki L. University Center as an encouragement for others to support Trine’s transformation moving forward.”