Syndicated Columnist
Throughout the history of Davis & Elkins College, there have been a handful of individuals whose transformational leadership and commitment have fundamentally altered the trajectory of this institution. St. Louis resident Mr. James S. McDonnell III deserves an honored place on this elite list.
Mr. McDonnell’s journey with Davis & Elkins College began when his daughter, Marcella McDonnell Stevens, enrolled at D&E in 1981. Four years later, at her graduation, Jim provided the commencement address. At that ceremony, he was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Laws. Jim and Elizabeth “Libby” McDonnell began their generous financial support of the College at that time. An endowed faculty chair in business and economics was a result of Mr. McDonnell’s generosity, and was given in honor of Dr. Gloria M. Payne who was highly influential to Marcella McDonnell during her years as a student.