Bernard Ramsey
Bernard B. Ramsey | |
|---|---|
| Born | Template:Birth date Macon, Georgia, U.S. |
| Died | July 11, 1996 (aged 80) |
| Occupation(s) | Business executive, philanthropist |
| Years active | –1973 |
| Known for | Executive at Merrill Lynch; major benefactor of University of Georgia |
Bernard Bruce Ramsey (November 10, 1915 – July 11, 1996) was a prominent executive at Merrill Lynch who gained recognition primarily for his extensive philanthropic support of the University of Georgia.
Originating from Macon, Georgia, Ramsey completed his secondary education at Lanier High School before obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Commerce from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business in 1937. During his university years, he participated actively in ROTC and was a member of several fraternities, such as Delta Sigma Pi and Alpha Tau Omega.
Following his military service as a lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force during World War II, Ramsey embarked on his career at Merrill Lynch starting as a salesman. Over time, he rose through the ranks to become senior vice president and chairperson of the company's executive committee by the time he retired in 1973.
Ramsey dedicated much of his philanthropic efforts toward his alma mater, highlighted by a $20 million donation in 1993 along with an $18.8 million legacy gift outlined in his will. These contributions established him as the University of Georgia’s most generous individual donor. Both he and his wife Eugenia have their names prominently linked to the business school, including the Bernard B. and Eugenia A. Ramsey Center for Private Enterprise. The university further commemorates him with its largest student recreation facility, key scholarships, endowed professorships, academic programs, classrooms, and a bronze statue situated outside the Honors College. Additionally, the Ramsey Concert Hall is integrated within UGA’s Performing and Visual Arts Complex.
Moreover, in 1963, Ramsey established the Bernard B. and Eugenia A. Ramsey Chair of Private Enterprise at Georgia State University’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies.
References
- The Briefing - Spring/Summer 2002, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University
- Most generous benefactor, Bernard B. Ramsey, dies, UGA Columns faculty/staff newspaper, September 9, 1996
- UGA Performing Arts Center online tour
- Ramsey leaves UGA an additional $18.8 million, UGA Columns faculty/staff newspaper, September 9, 1996