Summer 2017—Personal setback struck Paul Garnett (’73) when the would-be starting point guard for the Bulldogs blew out his knee at the beginning of the ’70-’71 basketball season. Unfortunately for the two-sport athlete, a string of injuries would keep him off of the court, as well as the baseball field, for much of his college career. However, through a generous provision in their will, Paul and his wife, Alicia (’74), are ensuring that Truman’s rich athletic heritage will thrive.
A poster child for the liberal arts, Paul has led an action-packed life as a successful businessman and entrepreneur. After graduating from Truman State University, he went on to pursue graduate studies in finance and economics.
Following a successful career with Edward Jones, in 2013 Paul and his daughter, Traci Garnett-Froscheiser, founded Garnett Investment Strategies. Paul has also been involved in more than 20 equity companies and has demonstrated strong entrepreneurial skill with numerous start-up companies growing into successful businesses. Successes for which Truman helped prepare him.
“I learned the values of capitalism in my economics classes while at Truman. It was invaluable,” he says. Paul also loves assisting his community and the state of Nebraska by his involvement in economic development spanning 35 years.
This substantial legacy commitment will provide funding for athletic facility improvements at Truman. With a blend of vision and entrepreneurship, Paul and Alicia Garnett are reminding us all that the best way to predict the future is by helping to create it.