Friday, April 30, 2010

BURR GIBSON

I knew Burr Gibson for rough-and-ready 40 years. Shortly after I joined The Oram Group in the mid-60s Harold Oram towed us to meetings of what was then AAFRC- now Giving Institute. There - some time toward 1970 I met Dr. Arnaud Marts the Marts in Marts& Lundy (which is more than most of the M&L staff today can claim) In due course I met Burr.

The one word that comes to mind in describing him is "gentleman." Burr first of all was an outstanding professional working in one of the best of the best in this niche business of fund raising consulting firms. But what always stood out was how much
of a gentleman he was, always respectful of others' views. He was a great listener, who embraced professionalism and ethical conduct in every bone in his body. He was terrific advocate for his clients. I learned from him and I shall miss him.

The company circulated the following message earlier this afternoon. For more on Burr's life and career please visit http://www.martsandlundy.com/oral_history/gibson.html.

Marts and Lundy

Dear Friends,

It is with tremendous sadness that we write to let you know of the passing of a beloved member of the Marts & Lundy family.

Burr Gibson was a true pioneer in the history of the firm and the field of philanthropy. With Marts & Lundy since 1964, he was named chief executive officer in 1979. Three years later, he was chairman and CEO. From 1991 until 2009, he served as executive chairman. Perhaps most notably, in 2008, he received the CASE Lifetime Achievement Award, which honors those who make "a significant and lasting impact on the field of institutional advancement through their professional accomplishments."

In numerous and profound ways, Burr touched and inspired those who knew him. A professional colleague as a well as a good friend, Burr was also our ethical conscience. We owe him a debt of gratitude for the strong reputation that the firm benefits from today. His warmth, loyalty, dedication and exemplary character will be missed more than words can express.

Yours very sincerely,

bruce_sig

Bruce R. McClintock
Chair


don_sig

Donald M. Fellows
President & CEO



1 comment:

Unknown said...

Howard,

Thanks so much for your kind words on Burr. Like you, he was a great friend and a very special mentor. And thanks for your leadership of our profession.

Roy Muir