Palm Beach Atlantic University held its 41st American Free Enterprise Day on November 13, bringing together students, faculty, and guests at the Rubin Center. The event recognized business leaders for their contributions to free enterprise.
Thomas Peterffy, chairman and founder of Interactive Brokers Group Inc., received the main medal. Bob Moss, chairman and founder of Moss & Associates, and Sarah Wetenhall, owner and CEO of The Hedges Inn and The Colony Hotel, were honored as companion medalists.
During the ceremony, PBA Executive Vice President Laura Bishop spoke about the importance of free enterprise. “Free enterprise rests on core principles that foster innovation and entrepreneurship,” Bishop said. She highlighted working hard, enriching employees’ lives, encouraging excellent client care, and supporting both employees and the community regardless of success. “We are grateful that today we have three amazing examples of this in Thomas Peterffy, Bob Moss, and Sarah Wetenhall,” she added.
Dr. Brian Strow, dean of the Marshall E. Rinker College of Business at PBA, addressed attendees with an analogy about embracing both economic and moral benefits in free enterprise. “We are making people’s lives better… with the spirit of free enterprise,” Strow said.
PBA President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn described how each medalist demonstrates how freedom and opportunity can help businesses thrive: “illustrate how freedom and opportunity allow enterprise to flourish, and how using one’s gifts wisely can leave an enduring impact.”
Accepting his award, Peterffy shared a personal reflection: “I always wanted a medal as a child but never received one,” he said while holding up his medal. “Look, Mom!” He encouraged others by stating: “You can still build an enterprise today,” noting America is “a land where you can make your dreams a reality.”
More information about American Free Enterprise Day at Palm Beach Atlantic University is available at https://www.pba.edu/about/growth/free-enterprise-day/.
