1988
Bio:
Richard P. Kughn, a native of Detroit, has devoted his time, energy and resources to its renewal and development. As a leader in the business community, Mr. Kughn heads up Kughn Enterprises, Independent Papercraft, Lionel Trains, Mediabase Research Corporation, Renaissance Printing, Transamerican Communications Corporation and the Whitney Restaurant Corporation. His corporate experience extends back to his years with the Taubman Company from which he retired in 1983. His activity in the business sector includes extensive volunteer service. He is on the board of the Detroit Chamber of Commerce, AAA Michigan, Harper-Grace Hospitals, and the Central Business District Association.
Mr. Kughn has offered his energy, expertise and support to countless organizations that enrich the community. He is a board member of the Metropolitan Detroit Convention and Visitors Bureau, serving as chairman from 1980-83, the International Visitors Council and he was made an Ambassador of Michigan Tourism by Governor James Blanchard. He sits on the boards of the Michigan Cancer Foundation, Michigan Opera Theater and Orchestra Hall, where he is vice chairman for restoration. He is affiliated with the Adcraft Club, the Engineering Society of Detroit and the Music Society of Detroit.
A classic car, model train and history buff, Mr. Kughn serves on the board of the National Automotive History Collection of the Detroit Public Library. He is a member of the Detroit and Michigan Historical Societies, Friends of Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Museum, Preservation Detroit and Preservation Wayne, where he serves on the advisory board. Additionally, Mr. Kughn is an ardent supporter of a number of local academic institutions including the University of Detroit, Mercy College of Detroit, University of Michigan, Wayne State University and Cranbrook Academy of Art.
Mr. Kughn has been recognized and honored for his commitment to the people of Detroit and his efforts to further the growth and improve the economic climate of the community. He has been named Humanitarian of the Year by the Metropolitan Detroit Chapter of the March of Dimes and Michiganian of the Year by the Detroit News. Last year he received the Great American Tradition Award from B’nai B’rith. He received the Chief’s Citation from the Detroit Police Department and the Spirit of Life Award from the City of Hope.
Born in Detroit, Mr. Kughn spent part of his youth in Ohio, where he graduated from Bay High School in Bay Village. He has three children and currently resides in Dearborn with his wife, Linda.
Award was presented at the Works of Mercy Dinner September 8, 1988 by Maureen A. Fay, O.P., President, Mercy College of Detroit and Thomas V. Angott, Chairman of the MCD Board of Trustees and President of Pure Milk Co.