College of Business Administration and Graduate School of Management Recipients
Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award
RONALD J. KUJAWA, BUS AD '53
Oak Creek, Wis.
The Associated Landscape Contractors of America once named Ron an “Industry Trailblazer,” a moniker befitting the man who — with his wife, Sally — more than 50 years ago started what has grown into a nationally recognized, four-season, full-service landscape management company in Oak Creek, Wis.
Today, Ron is semi-retired from serving as president and CEO of Kujawa Enterprises Inc. In addition to building the incredibly successful family business, Ron has been an active leader in his industry trade association, serving in numerous capacities, including as president of the ALCA. He is most proud of uniting three major trade groups in 1989 to create the Green Industry Conference/Green Industry Expo, which has evolved into the ninth-largest trade show in the nation.
Ron has also given much of his time and talents back to the community. He served for 15 years on the Cudahy School Board and for six years on Milwaukee County’s Private Industry Council, among other civic volunteer opportunities.
Attending most of his business classes in the military barracks that dotted campus after World War II, Ron was drafted into the U.S. Army after graduating in 1953. The City of Cudahy War Memorial Committee in 2002 named him “Veteran of the Year” for his service to others who served their country.
Ron is an avid big game hunter, fisherman, international traveler and Marquette basketball fan.
Ron and Sally, who have been married for 54 years, have four children: Chris (Judy), Kurt (Laurie), Carla (Robert Gilmore) and Joe (Patty). They also have 13 grandchildren — seven girls and six boys.
