ULL unveils plaque honoring Crowley businessman Moody

LAFAYETTE -- Crowley businessman B.I. Moody III was honored for his distinguished career and his generosity during a ceremony Wednesday night at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (ULL) in the Business Administration building which bears his name.
Over 100 people were in attendance including dozens of Moody’s family and friends, several of the college’s leaders including ULL President Joseph Savoie as well as dozens of business students who wanted to hear the renowned Crowley businessman speak.
Following the unveiling of a plaque which detailed Moody’s service in World War II to his later business accomplishments, the gathering moved to the building’s auditorium to listen to the Interim Dean of the BI Moody III College of Business Administration, Gwen Fontenot discuss Mr. Moody’s contributions to the school. She emphasized how much of a positive impact the Moody Matching Funds ($3.25 million) Program, has had on the school.
“Thanks to the Moody matching funds, we have received a total of 117 total gifts matched, 92 new funds, 59 endowed scholarship funds, 24 endowed professorship funds, two endowed chair funds, five faculty development funds and two departmental general use funds,” said Fontenot. “All of which has resulted in an $8.2 million impact on the business administration college.”
Those in attendance applauded.
It was then time for Moody to speak. Anyone who had reservations about the 90-year-old Crowley native speaking to the crowd soon had their concerns eased. Moody’s wit and recollection of his days as a young man moving up in the business world had the complete attention of all in attendance.
“When I was young I always wanted a large family. So I now have nine children, 41 grandchildren, 58 great grandchildren and three great great grandchildren. I guess I learned to be careful what you wish for and now you can understand why I’m still working,” he said to the laughter of those in attendance.
Moody went on to recall how a professor at ULL (‘It was SLI when I was here’) convinced him to finish college when he was considering going to work even though he only had two classes left to graduate.
“The dean pleaded with me and said I was making a mistake and so I listened to him and earned my degree. Then I learned that Bill Gates, the richest man in the world dropped out of college, and I wondered what could have happened if I dropped out,” he said drawing more laughter.
“Seriously however,” he said. “I want you to know that I am deeply honored by your presence here this evening.”
Moody received a standing ovation from those in attendance
There was one more surprise in store for Moody from the College of Business Administration staff when he was presented with a birthday cake. He will be celebrating his 91st birthday on Saturday.
A reception followed the presentation in the building’s lobby.