A $1 million gift from Andy (BBA '68) and Barbara Gessner to the University of Houston will support the education of aspiring sales professionals at the Stephen Stagner Sales Excellence Institute within the C. T. Bauer College of Business. In recognition of the gift, the institute's sales lab will be known as the Andy and Barbara Gessner Sales Lab.
Bauer's sales program enrolls more students and enlists more corporate support than any other university sales program in the country. The Gessners' financial support will be critical to elevating student success and research even further, according to Paula Myrick Short, UH senior vice president for academic affairs and provost.
"The institute has had an indelible impact on the business world by training sales professionals prepared from day one to lead and thrive in a competitive environment. This incredibly generous gift from the Gessners will only help take the program to new heights, and for that we are grateful," said Short.
Both Barbara and Andy Gessner attended UH in the 1960s, with Andy earning a bachelor's degree in business administration. He's the former president of Industrial Air Tool, a leader in industrial distribution, and credits his experience at UH for his success in business management and sales, and enjoys "paying it forward" to help future generations. Barbara is a graduate of Texas Woman's University. While raising their daughter, she was an active school and community volunteer and supported Andy in his career.
