Southeastern Community College Alumni Association | Distinguished Alumnus Award 2015
Ken Schwenker graduated from Burlington High School in 1971 and then attended Southeastern Community College. “Choosing SCC was a natural for me. And I’d always enjoyed watching the Blackhawks play basketball.”
After SCC, he traveled through Europe to broaden his horizons and then returned to the Burlington area to join his father’s growing business, Standard of Beaverdale. As an innovative business manager, Ken championed for his company to be one of the first in the industry to develop and implement a computerized inventory management system. Today, under Ken’s resourceful leadership, the business continues to flourish.
While he has traveled the world, to Ken home is best. He is passionate about community involvement. “If people want to see their area improve, then they need to do something, because it won’t just happen by itself.”
Ken finds great satisfaction in supporting local communities and organizations. He has made significant cash and product donations for many area projects, and rarely turns down a fundraising request. Ken often underwrites promotional advertising for community events, expecting little in return.
Ken greets every customer who comes through his door with a smile and a can-do attitude. “I do it because of the thanks I get in return. It’s a great feeling.”
