Charles Lillis, PhD '72, and Gwendolyn Lillis, who helped usher in a new era for the Lundquist College of Business with the opening of the Lillis Business Complex in 2003, were honored with the 2013 Pioneer Award May 10 at the Nines in Portland.

The University of Oregon Pioneer Award honors select individuals of outstanding character who have taken risks that led to great success in business, philanthropy, and community service.

Former Lundquist College associate dean Chris Murray summed up the Lillises succinctly and accurately: “Individually they are impressive, but together, they are unstoppable."

Those who have had the pleasure of working with the pair tend to describe Chuck and Gwen as accessible, hard working, and down to earth.

"Their whole demeanor is so humble and giving," said Ron Sauer '80, who serves on the college's Board of Advisors with Gwen. "They are so natural together, so smart, and so thoughtful. They believe in what they are doing and have a great balance. As intelligent and successful as they are, they remain grounded and are both amazing listeners. That's who they are and that's how they got where they are today. They are passionate about being Ducks."

Added University of Oregon Provost Jim Bean: "The Lillises are unique in their understanding of the UO community. Both Gwen and Chuck have significant academic experience, and taught here at Oregon. Their advice is more than donor advice; it's from people who understand the academy. They have an increasing impact – and it's not done yet."

Gwen and Chuck accepted the award together onstage. Gwen Lillis said the university may encounter challenges along the way, but "We hope to be part of the solution, and we are forever Ducks."

Proceeds from the Pioneer Award Gala benefit the Presidential Scholarship Endowment at the University of Oregon. Some scholarship recipients were in attendance and one, Sarah Rosencrans, described to the crowd her family's Oregon journey and the scholarship's positive impact.