2010
Bio:
Warren Loranger ’51, retired President & CEO of Pella Window & Door Company, is the recipient of The Founders Award. He is recognized for his commitment to his alma mater in the tradition of UDM’s Jesuit and Mercy Founders.
Following service in the Air Force during World War II, Mr. Loranger earned his bachelor’s degree in Architectural Engineering at the University of Detroit where his education, especially its emphasis on ethics, helped prepare him for his personal and business endeavors. This foundation served him well in his career as owner of Pella Window and Door Company. Through a strong work ethic and creative leadership. Mr. Loranger took an $18,000 acquisition and grew into multi-million dollar company.
Through the years, Mr. Loranger has remained a strong advocate for his alma mater, and especially the school of Architect. His financial gifts to the School have led to significant renovation of the Architecture Building, encompassing projects throughout the building both interior and exterior, including the Genevieve Fisk Loranger Exhibition Center. The building was named in his honor in 1994 to reflect his ongoing commitment to the School. He continues to take an interest in the well being of UDM students and recently helped support a new academic degree program in Architectural Engineering
A world traveler with facility for languages. Mr. Loranger enjoys exploring new places and meeting people. Many of his adventures result in humorous anecdotes, reflecting his openness to a variety of life experiences. Mr. Loranger is also an accomplished artist and art connoisseur with a variety of projects in process.
In addition to his passion for art, he cares deeply about causes that affect the lives of young people. Mr. Loranger’s personal philosophy is “to give back, to help people achieve whatever they are capable of doing.” Through his quiet philanthropic efforts, he helps people in large and small ways, such as making a college education possible for students who couldn’t otherwise afford it, or creating opportunities and spaces for groups to undertake their activities. Organizations that have benefited from Mr. Loranger’s support include YMCAs, the Boy Scouts and art programs.
Mr. Loranger’s motivation in supporting UDM is to share resources with his alma mater and to encourage others to support UDM’s mission.”People who understand the importance of the type of education UDM provides, and the foundation it gives to its graduates, will support the University’s work,” he says.
Award was presented at The Ignatian Circle Denner, September 24, 2010.