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W. Allen Gage received his Bachelor
of Science degree in journalism
in 1961. Graduating with Distinguished
Military Student and Distinguished
Military Graduate honors, Gage
was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant
in the United States Army.
In 1963, Gage began working in
the banking industry, serving
in positions such as United States
Comptroller of the Currency in
Washington, D.C., between 1964
and 1968; Chairman of the Board,
president, chief executive officer
and director of First National
Bank in Longview between 1991
and 2001; and, currently, Vice
Chairman of the Board for Regions
Bank in Houston.
A member of Delta Tau Delta
Fraternity while attending SHSU,
Gage is now a life endowed member
of the Alumni Association, the
President's Circle and has supported
the basketball team through
a $39,000 gift to the program
in the name of D.V McKaskle,
as well as a $1,000 donation
to allow one player to travel
to Africa as part of Athletes
in Action.
"Allen has been highly supportive
of his alma mater, including
his donation of a sizeable journalism
endowment in honor of his revered
journalism professor, Ferol
Robinson," said one nomination
letter.
"His strong record of community
service reflects his selflessness
and dedication to helping improve
quality of life for those less
fortunate in his community,"
the letter continued. "And his
strong support of Sam Houston
State University reflects his
belief in the University's commitment
to providing the best possible
education for its students."
In the community, Gage has been
a member of Boy Scouts of America
since July 1950 and currently
serves as Director of the East
Texas Area Council for the Boy
Scouts. He has also held the
director position of the Longview
United Way, president and director
of the Longview Chamber of Commerce
and is actively involved with
his church, Trinity Episcopal.
"His successes in the business
world, as well as his capable
leadership in community affairs,
and voluntary organizations,
have brought him many accolades,"
said another nomination letter.
"People of all creeds, races,
and economic situations have
been inspired by his nurturing
abilities.
"This leadership ability and
continuing steadiness makes
W. Allen Gage more than just
a regular citizen. The depth
of character, the radiance of
purpose, the trusting nature
in ultimate goodness are characteristics
of distinguishing note," the
letter continued. "These attributes
should make Sam Houston State
University pleased, because
it is within the halls of such
an institution that greatness
is sown, nurtured, encouraged,
developed."
Allen and his wife Patty, who
reside in Houston, have two
children, William (Bill) Allen
Gage, Jr., and Janet Elizabeth
Wrather.
As profiled
at the November 7, 2003 Distinguished
Alumni Banquet
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