Evelyn Brandt Thomas, 90, co-founder of Brandt®, Springfield, Ill., will receive an honorary doctorate of humane letters from the Springfield campus of the University of Illinois on May 17, 2014. “Evelyn has been an inspiration for women and men in business for decades,” said UIS Chancellor Susan J. Koch. “In addition to her success and leadership in business, her widespread philanthropy and sustained community service have contributed to the quality of life for all who live and work in the Springfield community.”
In the early 1950s, Evelyn and her brother, Glen, started a fertilizer business to supplement the family’s income on the farm. Evelyn managed the books while Glen ran the business, selling and applying anhydrous ammonia. Over the course of 60 years, Evelyn and Glen have remained active in the family business, which has grown to become Brandt, an international company, with sales in 48 states and 45 countries. Brandt is now one of Springfield’s largest employers. In 2012, the company was named to Inc. Magazine’s list of 500 Fastest Growing Private Companies with over $400 million in revenue.
Brandt Thomas continues to perform an active role in the business, serving as Secretary-Treasurer and going to work nearly every day.