INDIANAPOLIS - The Kelley School of Business Indianapolis recently presented an alumnus and longtime supporter of the program with the 2011 Access Award, honoring his continued investment in students and graduates.

 

Bruce Laughlin (BS 1988), managing director of the Laughlin Financial Group and a financial representative with Northwestern Mutual Financial Network, has hired more than 30 interns and graduates of the Kelley program at his local office and more than 80 throughout the company.

 

When accepting the award Friday night, Laughlin said Northwestern benefits the most from his close relationship with his alma mater.

 

“Northwestern Mutual reaps the award of picking up where IUPUI leaves off,” Laughlin said. “We are able to give opportunities to students who are driven and determined to create their own success beyond graduation.

 

“It has been a pleasure to continue to work with the Kelley School, and we look forward to growing that relationship well into the future,” he added.

 

The Access Award is presented each year to the individual or organization with a record of significant contributions to the enhancement of Kelley programs, either through educational or career opportunities for students.

 

Laughlin graduated with degrees in marketing and management, and he also played on the IUPUI tennis team while a student. As an alumnus, he has been a strong supporter of Kelley and IUPUI Athletics. He and Northwestern hire many Kelley students as interns and new employees, sponsor several events in conjunction with the Career Planning Office and mentor many students pursuing careers in finance.

 

The company provides an annual scholarship to a Kelley Indianapolis finance student. Laughlin also is a previous recipient of the IUPUI Spirit of Philanthropy Award and serves on the Jaguars Athletics Club Board of Directors.

 

Kelley’s Associate Dean Philip Cochran said Laughlin has been “a wonderful advocate for IUPUI and Kelley and believes we offer the best value, the highest quality of education and the potential to become the marquee university in the state.”

 

Several Northwestern colleagues joined Laughlin on Aug. 26 when he accepted the award at Kelley’s annual VIP Reception for students and alumni.