A woman with leadership experience in several large businesses is to deliver the keynote address in the next installment of Heidelberg University's Patricia Adams Lecture Series.
Ann Fudge, former chairwoman of Young and Rubicam Brands, is to deliver "Life Lessons Along the Journey" during a program March 22 in Seiberling Gymnasium.
According to a release from Heidelberg, Fudge has served as president of Beverages, Desserts and Post Division, a $5 billion unit of Kraft Foods; served on Kraft's management committee; and managed businesses, including Maxwell House Coffee, Kool-Aid, Crystal Light, Post cereals and Jell-O.
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Fudge
She worked for General Mills, beginning as a marketing assistant and later becoming marketing director, for nine years, the release states.
Jim Troha, Heidelberg's vice president for institutional advancement and university relations, said university officials want speakers in the series to have leadership backgrounds. Fudge has been at the top of her profession, has global experience and has all the experience officials seek when looking for speakers for the series, he said.
"She's got top leadership experience. ... She's on all kinds of boards," he said.
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If you go
The March 22 event begins with a reception at 6:15 p.m., followed by dinner and the lecture at 7 p.m. Cost is $25.
For more information or to make reservations, visit www.heidelberg.edu/patadams.
Troha said Heidelberg students will learn a tremendous amount from Fudge and the experiences she has had in the business world. The breadth of Fudge's experience is what made officials excited about having her on campus, he said.
He described Fudge, who will be on campus for two days, as friendly and outgoing.
"She's got a great spirit about her," he said.
The John and Patricia Adams Foundation created and funded Patricia Adams Lecture Series at Heidelberg, John's alma mater, two years ago. It brings to campus exceptional female speakers from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, according to the release.
