William B. Lyles of Fresno, a patron of the arts and long-time supporter of the university, will receive this year’s California State University, Fresno Foundation Award.
The award will be publicly announced at the university’s Pinnacle Society Dinner on Saturday, May 1, and be presented to the Lyles at the university’s 88th Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 22.
Lyles, a member of the President’s Club and Pinnacle Society at Fresno State, is being lauded for his contributions to the university and the community.
One of the university’s most recognizable contributions made by the Lyles family is the Lyles Gallery, located in front of the John Wright Theatre on campus. The Lyles Gallery houses art exhibits and is used during theatre productions and a variety of campus events.
President of Lyles Diversified, Inc. since 1984, Lyles has a long record of involvement with the university and Valley organizations. Lyles’ record of service includes Fresno State, the Fresno Philharmonic Association, Fresno Arts Council, Fresno County and City Chamber of Commerce, Fresno Metropolitan Museum, Arts to Zoo Committee, and a host of other organizations.
In the last 20 years recipients of the university’s Foudation Award
include Robert Duncan, Elmer “Bud” Richter, Leon S. Peters, James B. Mayer, Earl Smittcamp, Rodger B. Jensen, and Alice A. Peters.
