April 05, 2023 —
Hobbs, New Mexico - The University of the Southwest hosted its 2023 Gala to recognize and celebrate the unsung heroes of the community who have shown an unwavering commitment to free enterprise and servant leadership. This special evening, held on March 30th, 2023, at the Hobbs Country Club, was an opportunity to honor those who have worked tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of those around them.
One of the key highlights of the event was the recognition of two outstanding community members who embody the principles of free enterprise and servant leadership. These community leaders have helped make Lea County a great place to live and work, and their contributions were celebrated at the event. Honorees included Gary Fonay as the 2020 Trustee of Free Enterprise, and Keith Pearson as the award recipient for 2022. The event, which had been canceled in 2020, 2021, and 2022, due to the COVID pandemic and the university's recovery from a tragic accident, marked a time for reconnection, re-establishing relationships, and celebrating shared values, purpose, and mission.
"We were delighted to once again host the event in person after a three-year hiatus and recognize the outstanding contributions of our honorees," said Dr. Ryan Tipton, Interim President of the University of the Southwest. "Their steadfast commitment to free enterprise and servant leadership has made a lasting impact on our community, and we are honored to celebrate their achievements."
Attendees also enjoyed outstanding entertainment by one of Hobbs' very own, Hillary Smith, and the ChillHouse Band. The evening included great food, and opportunities to reconnect and celebrate what it means to be part of this community.
The University of the Southwest is committed to fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and service. The principles of free enterprise and servant leadership form the cornerstone of its mission, providing opportunities for innovation and progress while emphasizing the importance of putting others first and leading by example. As the community came together to celebrate, the University of the Southwest hopes that this event will inspire attendees to continue to strive for excellence and make a difference in the lives of those around them.
