Camarillo, Calif., March 18, 2015—A philanthropist who helped plant the roots for CSU Channel Islands (CI) and has helped it grow ever since will receive an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters during the May 2015 Commencement celebration on May 16.
Senior Vice President of Private Wealth Management at Merrill Lynch in Oxnard, William “Bill” Kearney has been a champion for CI long before Ventura County’s first, public four-year university welcomed its inaugural class in 2002.
Kearney and his wife of 42 years, Elise, became members of the President’s Circle back in 1999, helping to create the financial bedrock for a university Kearney and many others had anticipated for years. “Our community has forever deserved a four year university,” Kearney said.
Kearney’s work didn’t stop with his financial support. He helped secure significant donations from local businesses and other partners, and offered his time and leadership.
He served as Chairman of the University's Foundation Board of Directors from 2007-2009 and has served on the Board since 2003.
Kearney shepherded hundreds of thousands of dollars of donations from local sponsors, which resulted in the creation of student scholarships, the attainment of the Robert J. Lagomarsino Archives, the design and construction of the Margaret Tiplady Burgess Courtyard, and the building of the Central Mall Fountain.
“There is something that’s really special about getting to work with a brand new university,” Kearney said. “You can truly make a difference. Everybody can truly make a difference.”
Kearney volunteers for campus initiatives and events, and mentors CI students and graduates.
“Bill is a humble man and does not seek grand recognition or attention,” wrote CI President Richard Rush in his letter of nomination. “Consequently, many of his involvement credits tend not to be mentioned in press releases, news releases or other forms of publicity. Rather, Bill finds satisfaction in knowing his service is benefiting those most in need.”
When he found out, Kearney said he was overwhelmed. “I feel just like Cinderella. This is unbelievable,” Kearney said. “This is not supposed to happen to a normal guy.”
Kearney, who earned a degree in economics from UCLA, said this honor far exceeds anything he has ever experienced.
# # #
About California State University Channel Islands
CSU Channel Islands(CI) is the only four-year, public university in Ventura County and is known for its interdisciplinary, multicultural and international perspectives, and its emphasis on experiential and service learning. CI’s strong academic programs focus on business, sciences, liberal studies, teaching credentials, and innovative master’s degrees. Students benefit from individual attention, up-to-date technology, and classroom instruction augmented by outstanding faculty research. CI has been designated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is committed to serving students of all backgrounds from the region and beyond. Connect with and learn more by visiting CI's Social Media.