On Friday, October 17, Central Methodist University celebrated one of its most influential alumni and board members as Dr. Robert “Tad” Perry ’65 was awarded the President’s Medal by Dr. Roger Drake.
At the luncheon kicking off Homecoming Weekend, Perry was surprised with the award by the University president in front of his family, friends, and fellow board of trustees members. Given at the discretion of the president, the medal is awarded to individuals who have contributed significantly of their time, talent, or treasure to enhance the University and whose contributions have made an impact on the campus, students, faculty, and staff.
“Central Methodist simply has no better friend than Tad Perry,” said Drake. “He loves this place. He bleeds green. He’s willing to work tirelessly on its behalf. He and [his wife] Carolyn ’66 participate in every venture, in every project, in every endeavor with Central and Fayette. Every time they are asked, they answer the call.”
Indeed, Perry’s influence as the former chair of the board of trustees – a role he held from 2014 to 2021 – can be seen and felt across campus. Under his leadership, the Campaign for the Heart of Central raised $20 million for the construction of the Thogmorton Center for Allied Health and the renovation of Stedman Hall, among other key projects. Perry was also at the helm when Central launched Digital U, the technology initiative that helped the University continue to thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic. He has continued to serve on the board following his chairmanship.
Tad and Carolyn are also the namesakes of the Perry Fellow Award, which honors one outstanding member of the CMU faculty every year and awards them with a stipend in recognition of their commitment to teaching and mentoring Central’s students.
The couple resides in South Dakota, where Perry spent 15 years as CEO for the South Dakota Board of Regents after a 43-year career in higher education.
Perry said he was “stunned” to receive the award at the luncheon, which was attended by previous President’s Medal recipients J.B. Waggoner ’91 and Whitney Kerr, as well as Barbara Alexander who represented her husband Fred Alexander, the 2021 recipient of the award.
“Central is just a great place, and our job is to make it continue to be a great place for what’s coming ahead,” said Perry. “Thank you for letting me be part of this institution, and thank you for bestowing such an honor on me. I’m speechless.”