SOURCE OF WEALTH: Technologist and Entrepreneur
FUNDING AREAS: Military & veterans, education
OVERVIEW: Buddy Beck and his wife, Charlotte, do their grantmaking through the Virginia-based Beck Foundation, which seeks to help "those who serve the nation and surrounding communities."
BACKGROUND: In the 1050s, Buddy G. Beck served as a Second Lieutenant in the Field Artillery at Arkansas State University’s Army ROTC, where he eventually earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry. He went on to get a master's from the University of Southern California and began his business career in 1984 with Atlantic Systems Research & Engineering. Over the years, Beck founded, oversaw and acquired companies including Coleman Research, the Thermo Electron Corporation and Viisage Technology, Inc.
ISSUES:
MILITARY & VETERANS: Several years ago, the Beck Foundation spearheaded the Beck PRIDE Center for America’s wounded veterans at Arkansas State University, where Buddy Beck served in the Field Artillery ROTC program. The Beck PRIDE Center now provides “education, rehabilitation, and reliable support systems to over 80 veterans.” The foundation provides ongoing support for all Beck PRIDE Center programs.
EDUCATION: The Beck Foundation also supports various universities and educational institutions, including programs in entrepreneurship, the performing arts and athletics. Past grantees include George Mason University, Arkansas State University and the Texas A&M Foundation.
OTHER: The foundation has supported the National MS Society, Feed the Hungry, hte Army Emergency Relief and the Tamarack Environmental Preservation.
LOOKING FORWARD: Beck and Charlotte have expanded their philanthropic interests through the years, so new giving may emerge. Expect their core interests in the armed forces and education to remain, however.
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