Amid the glow of chandeliers and the sounds of clinking wine glasses and applause, two University graduates were given the Pioneer Award for excellence in business and community at a black-tie event in Portland on Saturday night.
Nearly 300 people attended the gala, which is held annually and has previously awarded University graduates Ann Curry, an NBC “Today Show” correspondent, and Dan Wieden, founder of the international advertising agency Wieden and Kennedy.
University President Dave Frohnmayer said this year’s award was given to Randy and Susie Papé, both 1972 graduates, in honor of the time and energy they have committed to projects such as the remodeling of the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. They were also awarded for their leadership in Campaign Oregon, a drive to provide graduate and undergraduate scholarships, support faculty research and fund projects, such as a future replacement for McArthur Court, by raising $600 million.
“The University of Oregon is about making a difference, and Randy and Susie are two people who are
making a difference,” Frohnmayer said. “These are people who stone upon stone are leaving us a legacy
to remember.”
Randy Papé and his family own and operate heavy equipment sales and service centers from Alaska to Southern California. Additionally, the family owns Sanipac, a regional refuse business; EcoSort, a recycling company; Flightcraft, an aircraft sales and service center in Portland; and Liberty Financial Group.
Museum board member Connie Huling said Susie Papé played a pivotal role in the remodeling of the museum and in other University projects.
“She has been the one who’s always been there,” Huling said. “She has been a strong motivational factor.”
Randy and Susie Papé’s son Brian Papé said his family has always been instilled with a sense of community. He said his grandfather passed on words of wisdom that have since been passed to him and his brothers.
“My grandfather said life and
business is like a bank,” Brian said. “If you make continuous withdraws, you’ll go bankrupt. You need to make deposits in your community if you hope to gain interest.” Brian added that his parents encouraged their children from an early age to perform community service: 20 hours per week while in high school.
Video highlights were shown during the gala that included the Papés before and after they met at the University. The video also featured Oregon Sens. Gordon Smith and Ron Wyden as well as many University figures who were unable to attend.
The Pioneer Foundation also awards seven students each year with Pioneer Award Presidential Scholarships. The net profit from the gala benefits the scholarship fund that helps many students attend college.
The award ceremony was followed by a performance by the University’s Green Garter Band and dancing.
Wyden said on video that he believed the Papés were an asset not only to the University but to all Oregonians.
“If I had to list all the things they do and the communities they serve, I’d be accused of filibustering,” Wyden said.

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