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Duane Acklie Made Powerful Impact at CBA

Duane Acklie, founder of Crete Carrier Corp. and 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln College of Business Administration, died September 17 at age 84. He contributed to UNL by providing student internships, jobs, a new addition to the College of Law and support for the new CBA building.

A native of Madison, Nebraska, Acklie received a bachelor of science and law degree from UNL. He served as an Army counter-intelligence officer in Germany before returning to the U.S. to practice law. His special interest in transportation law helped fuel his passion for the transportation industry, and led to his founding and purchase of Crete Carriers.

Dr. Donde Plowman, James Jr. and Susan Stuart Dean of the College of Business Administration, expressed her gratitude for Acklie’s support for the college, the university and the state of Nebraska. She believes Acklie, who was an entrepreneur, embodied the Start Something attitude the college conveys to students.

Acklie and Plowman at 2011 Deans Advisory Board Awards
Acklie and Plowman at 2011 Deans Advisory Board Awards
“From the day I arrived in Lincoln, Duane and his wife Phyllis showed me such support and inspired me to want to do big things here,” said Plowman. “Duane set an example for so many – including deans – for how to live a full life, how to do well by doing good and how to do things that matter.”

Today Crete Carrier is one of the top 20 largest privately owned trucking companies in the country. The company’s support of the new Department of Supply Chain Management and Analytics at CBA allows business students to interact directly with Crete Carrier professionals. They also provide valuable advice on the direction of supply chain curriculum to keep the program up-to-date with the latest changes in the industry.

Acklie received the U.S. Department of Defense Service Medal, the highest civilian award for public service given by the Department of Defense.

UNL Chancellor Dr. Ronnie Green announced three endowed chairs are to be established as the foundation of the Clayton K. Yeutter Institute of International Trade and Finance. The Duane Acklie Chair will be established at CBA. The institute prepares students to work in an environment where national economies are increasingly connected.
Published: October 1, 2016