Tommy Bahama CEO gives $250,000 to UCA

The University of Central Arkansas has received a $250,000 gift from the chief executive of clothier Tommy Bahama Inc. to support its College of Business dean's position, the school's Advancement Division said Friday.

The fund, named in honor of Terry Pillow's parents, Homer and Regina Pillow, will create an endowment for expenses and becomes the six fund established in the UCA Foundation to back a faculty, chair or dean position, the university said in a statement.

"The establishment of the endowment and the use of the available funds will be vital for recruiting and retaining the very best person as the next college of business dean,” said UCA Provost Steven Runge.

Pillow, a Corning native, graduated in 1976 with a bachelor's in marketing and was named one of UCA's distinguished alumni this year, the university said. Before landing his current position at Tommy Bahama Group in 2008, he served as CEO of Ralph Lauren Footwear, The Rockport Co., and as president of Coach Apparel and A/X Armani Exchange.

“I’m often reminded of how influential my time at UCA has been in my life and career,” Pillow said in the statement. “UCA is built on a reputation of excellence and I’m proud to be an alumnus and to support UCA’s long tradition of commitment to educating students.”

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