Stories of Impact

Some Things Never Change: After 50 Years, Mac Geschwind Still Gets "Coming Home Feeling" When He Returns to Rockhurst

A lot can change over the course of five decades. Waistlines, hairlines and storylines, just to name a few. But as Mac Geschwind prepares to celebrate 50 years as a Rockhust University graduate, his love and appreciation for his alma mater still remains the same.

"I enjoy going to campus, where there is plenty of nostalgia," Mac says. "It's amazing to see how Rockhurst has grown and changed in so many ways. I get a —coming home feeling' when I'm on campus. I have always had great relationships with whoever's in charge. I enjoy getting to know people. It's amazing. 50 years: it's a totally different experience and environment while it's essentially the same experience and environment."

Mac is a member of the Rockhurst Class of 1963, which will enjoy their "Golden Hawk" celebration this fall. Not only has he helped with reunion efforts, Mac is also a longtime and generous benefactor of Rockhurst University. In 2001, he established the Elaine and Mac Geschwind Scholarship, which helps students with an interest in business, finance or management. Mac is also a member of the Rockhurst University Heritage Society, leaving a generous gift to RU in his estate.

"I have a deep affection for everyone and for the education I received at Rockhurst and want people to continue to get it and experience it. I wanted to contribute to Rockhurst and help students who otherwise couldn't afford a Rockhurst education."

A Kansas City native, Mac resides in the Reno/Lake Tahoe area following a long and successful career with SBC Corporation, which later became AT&T. Mac worked primarily in finance and regulation, eventually earning a position of CEO for three different subsidiaries. Through it all, he credits his RU and Jesuit education for giving him his foundation for life.

"You can get an education, Latin...anywhere. But the Jesuit method is the best," Mac says.

The atmosphere of a small college, knowing the faculty, knowing the students and the classes so well; it was great. The overriding inflection of ethical behavior, that you can be a center of change. Trying to be a person of influence; it's kind of subliminal while you are there, but I could see it as I grew. Much of my ethics and behavior was shaped by my teachers and my experience at Rockhurst."

Back to all stories