Cassens to Receive McKendree’s ‘Friend of the University’ Award
Lebanon, Ill. — Allen R. Cassens, of Edwardsville, will receive the 2013 Friend of
the University Award when McKendree University observes its 185th anniversary on Feb. 20. It will be presented during a Founders’ Day program that
will begin at 7 p.m. at the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts. Friends and members
of the community are invited to attend.
The Alumni Board gives the award to individuals or organizations who are not McKendree
alumni but who have consistently given exemplary service to the university. A member
of the board of trustees for 17 years, Cassens has provided significant volunteer
and philanthropic leadership, including serving on its resource development and academic
affairs committees. He and his wife Linda have provided financial support for many
university projects, including the Hettenhausen Center for the Arts, a natatorium
and the annual fund.
He is the owner of Cassens Corporation holding company, which includes a Chrysler
Dodge dealership in Glen Carbon, and a transport company and insurance agency in Edwardsville.
He has played key roles in other philanthropic and business endeavors, including The
Bank of Edwardsville, the SIUE Foundation and Allison’s Friends of Hope.
“Allen Cassens has been a friend of McKendree University for more than 20 years. His
impact on the University and as a leader in the metro-east and Edwardsville area in
particular has been significant,” said Dr. James Dennis, president. “His leadership
at McKendree and his unwavering support for cancer research are indications of his
commitment to the region and beyond. The university is honored to recognize Allen
as part of our Founders’ Day celebration.”
Dennis will close the Founders’ Day program with a “State of the University” address,
discussing recent accolades, aspirations and challenges for McKendree’s future.
Allen R. Cassens
