In 1944, Donald Petersen, Washington ’46, enrolled at the University of Washington while concurrently serving the U.S. Navy during World War II. In a matter of just two years, he joined Beta Theta Pi (initiated October 15, 1944; Roll Number 651), earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and married his Beta Sweetheart, Jo Anne. After graduation, he received his MBA from Stanford University and attended boot camp and basic training for the Marine Corps, serving in the Korean War from January 1951 until June 1952.
Beginning in 1949, Petersen spent 41 years with Ford Motor Company. He was named the company’s president and chief operating officer in 1980 and became chairman of the board in 1985. His inclusive, team-oriented and visionary management style is credited for saving the company during this time, notably with the introduction of the Ford Taurus and his commitment to “saving the soul” of the Ford Mustang. He was hailed a “Most Valuable Person” in 1988 by USA Today and “CEO of the Year” by Chief Executive Magazine in 1989. He went on to lend his talents to various other entities, including service on the boards of The Boeing Company, Dow Jones & Co., Hewlett-Packard Company and the University of Washington Foundation.
Because of his professional accomplishments, the Fraternity bestowed upon Petersen the Oxford Cup in 2011. In his lifetime, he also received the University of Washington’s Distinguished Alumnus Award, the Stanford Business School Alumni Association’s Arbuckle Award and Brookgreen Gardens’ American Achievement Award, among others.
May Brother Don Petersen, Roll No. 651 of the Beta Omega Chapter of Beta Theta Pi, rest in peace. Forever in ___kai___.
