Join us for the 2026 Excellence in Business Gala
May 2026 Event Information Coming Soon
A night of inspiration, recognition and exclusive insights
Our 2026 Excellence in Business Gala promises to be a memorable evening filled with inspiring stories, networking opportunities, and a captivating conversation with a distinguished guest speaker.
Event highlights
Award Ceremony: Honoring our 26th Peter C. Cook Excellence in Business Award recipient, Richard J. Pappas, Ed. D.
Exclusive conversation: An exclusive conversation with a soon-to-be-announced special guest speaker.
Elegant dinner and reception: Enjoy fine dining and networking with business professionals, philanthropists and friends of Davenport University.
Past guest speakers: Our previous events have included notable guests such as George W. Bush, former President of the United States, Robin Roberts, award-winning journalist and author, Ted Koppel, renowned journalist and broadcaster and the legendary news anchor Anderson Cooper.
Save the Budget
We are deeply grateful to the partners who intentionally set aside resources to support this signature event. With many organizations currently preparing budgets, we are pleased to share the sponsorship levels below for your planning purposes. All sponsors will be alerted once the date is finalized.
26th Peter C. Cook Excellence in Business Award recipient
Dr. Richard J. Pappas
Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., is one of the longest serving university presidents in Michigan. He has led Davenport University, which is the largest private university in the state, since August 2009.
During his tenure, the university implemented quality measures, elevating its academic programming, student support and financial strength. The graduation rate has increased 200% since he arrived. Student retention and philanthropic support are at all-time highs. This focus on outcomes earned Davenport the Michigan Performance Excellence Award, which recognizes performance based on the Baldrige Criteria for Performance Excellence. In August 2025, Dr. Pappas announced he will be retiring in June, marking the culmination of his distinguished tenure as one of Michigan’s longest-serving university presidents.
Subject to change pending 2026 announcement
What time does the event start?
- The platinum reception will begin at 5:45 pm and will end at 6:45 pm
- The general reception will begin at 6:00 pm and end at 6:45 pm
What is the platinum reception?
The platinum reception is a VIP reception that takes place in conjunction with the general reception. Access to the reception is based on sponsorship level. Tickets are limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
What are the security protocols for the event?
- No media, personal photography, note-taking or recording will be allowed.
- No large bags, backpacks, event bags, laptop bags, briefcases or coats permitted in the event space.
- A complimentary coat check will be available.
What do I wear?
The recommended dress for the evening is black tie.
How do I request a special meal due to dietary restrictions?
If your request was not submitted with your guest list, please contact Erin Carpenter at Erin.Carpenter@davenport.edu.
I am a sponsor. Who do I send my guest names to?
Guest names can be submitted here.
What is the deadline to provide guest names?
The deadline to provide guest names is one week prior to the event.
When can I purchase individual tickets?
Individual tickets will be available after the start of the calendar year.
Who do I contact if I have further questions?
If you have any further questions about the gala, please send us an email at events@davenport.edu.