Commencement

The DOCTOR of HUMANE LETTERS DEGREE,
Honoris Causa

Presented at the 152nd Commencement
Exercises of Culver-Stockton College
10 May 2008

In recognition of his outstanding dedication and service to this college and its home community, Culver-Stockton College honors Donald K. Gnuse with the degree, Doctor of Humane Letters.

Native son of the tri-state area, he has faithfully served the community, his church, and his alma mater throughout his life.

The son of bankers who himself entered the field after graduating from Culver-Stockton College in 1956, he is a leader in regional banking, one of the elite few to be honored for fifty years of service by the Illinois and Missouri Bankers Associations. He remains committed to this lifework by serving on the boards of several banking establishments.

His commitment to our community is evidenced by leadership of such organizations as the Board of the Quincy Civic Center, John Wood Community College, the City of Quincy Water Works Commission, Blessing-Rieman College of Nursing, the John Wood Historical Society, the Good Samaritan Home, The Community Foundation, and the United Way. A vestryman of St. John's Episcopal Church, he has served on the board of the Lindsay Church Home and also as trustee of funds and properties for the Episcopal Diocese of Quincy.

Since 1984, Don Gnuse has served on the Culver-Stockton College Board of Trustees and is currently its chairman. Fellow board members praise his even temper, his calming influence, his perceptive insight, his ability to add humor when it is most needed, his boundless energy, and his commitment to Christian values. They commend his skill at steering a steady course through challenging times, his ability to mentor others and build confidence, and his poise and wisdom in eminent leadership roles.