American Free Enterprise (AFE) Day has been a tradition at Palm Beach Atlantic (PBA) University for nearly 40 years, dating back to 1984. Since its founding, this event has celebrated our American heritage and freedoms and promoted our free enterprise system.

All about free enterprise

PBA’s commitment to our free enterprise system is unique within higher education today; nowhere else is this distinctive recognition of the American free enterprise system so immersed in the traditions of a university. PBA not only requires a course on the American free enterprise system, but it also sponsors this grand celebration annually to honor men and women whose hard work and achievement exemplify the best of the American free enterprise system. 

Medalists of the Year Honored

On November 14, PBA will host a medal ceremony to recognize four individuals. The 2023 AFE lead medalist, Dina Dywer-Owens, is an acclaimed author, motivational speaker and franchise leader. The companion medalists are Jack Day, vice president of Franchise Development for Meals of Hope, Stephen Popper, founder, president and CEO of Meals of Hope and Buddy Raney, founder of Raney Construction, Inc, philanthropist and entrepreneur. In addition to the recognition of the medalists, the event will honor scholarship recipients, feature patriotic music, live orchestral performances, enchanting choir renditions and the presence of the Color Guard. The ceremony is also a chance to honor the faithful donors who have so generously given to support business scholarships, contributing to PBA’s mission to equip students to grow in wisdom, lead with conviction and serve God boldly. AFE Day will be free, and the public is invited to attend and celebrate this highly anticipated event. 

We are thrilled to honor individuals who embody the spirit of American Free Enterprise, those whose unwavering commitment to hard work, innovation and the principles of our great nation have shaped their own success and enriched our society. Dina Dwyer-Owens, Jack Day, Stephen Popper and Buddy Raney exemplify what can be achieved through determination and entrepreneurial vision. Dina, our esteemed Medalist of the Year, has not only left an indelible mark on the world of franchising, but, through her writing and talks, she has inspired countless others to embrace the values of respect, integrity, customer focus and the joy of the journey. 

Volunteers to Pack Meals for Food Banks

In addition to PBA’s heart for free enterprise, the university is also passionate about producing Christ-first, servant leaders. Following the ceremony, PBA will host a volunteer event with the Titus Center for Franchising and Meals of Hope to support local food banks. In just two hours, it is projected that nearly 50,000 meals will be packed to be distributed to food banks. I am excited to be present along with other PBA leaders, and companion medalists Day and Popper will be in attendance as well, exemplifying their unwavering commitment to serving the community.
To learn more about PBA’s American Free Enterprise Day, search pba.edu/afe. 

Dr. Debra A. Schwinn, a physician, researcher and innovator, is president of Palm Beach Atlantic University. (www.pba.edu)  

For more articles by Dr. Schwinn, visit goodnewsfl.org/author/dr-debra-a-schwinn/