Friday, June 6, 2008

Entrepreneurs Foundation of North Texas hosts Spirit of Entrepeneurship event

By Pegasus News wire

Teddy at TMS Ruge Photography

Ray Hunt, chairman and CEO of Hunt Oil Company, discusses his five principals that separate good businesses from truly excellent organizations during his acceptance speech at EFNT's Spirit of Entrepreneurship: Exploring Philanthropy.

DALLAS — Businessman and philanthropist Ray Hunt was inducted into the Ring of Entrepreneurs at the seventh annual Spirit of Entrepreneurship event on Wednesday, June 4. Hosted by the Entrepreneurs Foundation of North Texas, a fund of Communities Foundation of Texas (CFT), and title sponsored by NexBank, the celebration and fundraiser attracted more than 350 business executives to CFT's North Dallas headquarters.

Mr. Hunt, the chairman and CEO of Hunt Oil Company, joined a prestigious group of inductees, including Craig Hall, Roger Staubach, T. Boone Pickens and Charles and Sam Wyly, all of whom have been recognized for their far-reaching philanthropic accomplishments. During his remarks, Mr. Hunt outlined five principals that separate good businesses from truly excellent businesses citing "corporate culture; differentiating oneself; adaptability; agility; and the willingness to be contrary when it makes sense" as key values. Following his remarks, he answered questions from the audience.

The Entrepreneurs Foundation of North Texas also honored Ignite Technologies, HumCap and Steve Perkins with its North Star Recognition, which is given to area businesses and individuals who provide shining examples of civic involvement. Ignite Technologies provides digital-content delivery solutions; HumCap is a human-resources service provider; and Mr. Perkins is an accomplished technology executive.

"All of our honorees set stellar examples for a business community already known for its generous spirit," said Pam Gerber, executive director of the Entrepreneurs Foundation. "Dallas is a deal-making town, and the good news is that companies here appreciate making philanthropy a part of their deals. The reason we host this event is to show even more executives how valuable it is to integrate corporate citizenship into their business model. There's a real tangible return on investment. You get a more engaged employee, a more loyal customer base, and besides that, you're doing good things for the community. It's a win-win-win."

The event also raised more than $90,000 through sponsorships, donations and a silent auction intended to benefit the foundation in its mission to promote corporate philanthropy. Auction items included a Brioni blazer from Stanley Korshak; a diamond watch from Michele; a 12-month VIP lunch expense account at The Capital Grille; a commissioned portrait by artist Maciej Maga; a day at Garrett Creek Ranch Conference Center; a Personal Edge Executive Physical from Baylor Health Care System; an EXPerience Kit from AMX hardware and software solutions; 1,000 customized grip phone treads from eGrips Technology; and 21 rounds of golf at courses throughout North Texas provided by Avid Golfer.

In addition to title sponsor NexBank, Spirit of Entrepreneurship was generously supported by platinum sponsor, PricewaterhouseCoopers; and gold sponsors Hall Financial Group, Peterson, Goldman & Villani, Tatum and Executive AirShare.

Other donors included Ernst & Young, Bowne of Dallas, VCFO, Merrill Lynch, Andrews Kurth, G & A Partners, Hughes Ventures, KBA Group LLP, TelaDoc, U.S. Home Team, D CEO Magazine, Philanthropy World Magazine, The Oceanaire Seafood Room, Screen Door at One Arts Plaza, Carter Malouf, and J. Dorian Chocolatier.

Source: ENFT

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