Lynn Brooks earns Pillar of Success award

A dedicated and generous Trine University trustee/alumnus was honored Thursday evening with one of the university's highest honors.

Lynn A. Brooks, a 1975 graduate, learned he was the recipient of the Pillar of Success Award while watching a photo montage video that highlighted pictures of him from early childhood to the present. He received a standing ovation from more than 200 guests when he came forward to accept his award during the 18th annual Touchstone Donor Recognition Dinner. His wife, Patti, was there when he accepted the award.

"Some might say he is a man of few words, but that those words can lead to transformational change and positive impact to those around him. He is always one of sound judgment, keen insight and instrumental decision-making," Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine president, said of Lynn Brooks.

The pillar award is given to those who provide vital support to the university through their commitment, loyalty and dedication. They have proven to be true Pillars of Success, advancing and securing the mission of Trine University and its future.

Lynn Brooks is president and chief executive officer of Rieke Packaging Systems in Auburn, a position he has held since 1996. He is also president for Rieke's parent company, TriMas Corp., in Bloomfield Hills, Mich., and managing director of TriMas Corp.'s Asian sourcing office.

He and his wife, Patti, along with Rieke Packaging Systems, faithfully support the university through the Trine Fund, scholarship gala, scholarship golf outings, Trine's Engineering publication and the new Jim and Joan Bock Center for Innovation and Biomedical Engineering.

"Through Lynn and Rieke's support, we have made enhancements to our academic program with the creation of a new plastics minor which has over 30 students enrolled in its first year and a new Plastics Technology Center that will be housed within the Bock Center," president Brooks explained.

Lynn Brooks has served on the Trine University Board of Trustees since 2007 and is chairman of the finance committee. He serves on the boards of Rieke Foundation, Englass Limited in England and on the executive committee to the board of directors for TriMas Corp. He is also a member of many professional organizations including the Petroleum Packaging Council and the American Institute of CPAs.

In 2009, Lynn Brooks was recognized with Trine's Distinguished Service Award. The award is given to a Trine graduate who has performed outstanding service, garnered personal and community achievement and has supported Trine by contributions of time, talent and treasure.