MANSFIELD, PA— Paul McMillen, a 1969 Mansfield graduate, has been awarded the Mansfield University Presidential Coin for Excellence by President Fran 
Hendricks.
The presentation took place on June 10 at the Sig Tau Gamma gathering during Mansfield’s Alumni Weekend.
“I thought it was appropriate to honor Paul in front of his fraternity brothers because he has contributed so much to their organization, both here at MU and nationally,” Hendricks said. “Paul’s career in fundraising and philanthropy, his contributions to Mansfield University since his days as a student, and his willingness to return and help his alma mater now, at its time of need, make him very deserving of this honor.”
McMillen participated in the founding of Mansfield University Foundation in 1974 and begin a career in fundraising and philanthropy. He served as executive director of the Mansfield Foundation, as well as director of development for the University, for four years.
In 1980, McMillen was named president of both the Pennsylvania Automobile Association (PAA), where he served for 36 years, and the PAA Foundation. In 2004 he participated in the founding of the PAA Foundation, serving as president. At the close of business on December 31, 2016 the Foundation had assets of over $50 million.
McMillen has served on numerous boards including Capital Blue Cross/Pennsylvania Blue Shield, Inc., the National Automobile Dealers Association Foundation, Gaimbalvo Automotive Group Board of Directors, National automotive Youth Educational Services, Inc., and Stevens Psychiatric Center. He has received many professional and civic awards including Automotive Trade Association Executive of the Year, Pennsylvania Society of Associations Executive of the Year and the Sigma Tau Gamma National Fraternity Distinguished Alumni Achievement award.
In 2016, McMillen returned to MU to volunteer in fund raising and act as an advisor in the formation of the new Foundation for Mansfield University, a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to help the University achieve its mission and goals.
In March 2017, McMillen was named Special Assistant to the President for Advancement and External Relations. In this capacity, he leads Mansfield University’s fund raising, community outreach efforts, Alumni Affairs, and is the university liaison to the Mansfield Foundation. McMillen also serves on Cabinet as an advisor.
The coin was developed by Hendricks and designed by MU Senior Graphics Designer Andy Worthington. It is awarded selectively to persons who have distinguished themselves and the University through their accomplishments, using the Mansfield Creed; Character, Scholarship, Culture and Service as a guideline.
The coin bears several symbols representing historical highlights and other aspects of the university that make it distinctive.
For more information on the Mansfield University Presidential Coin for Excellence and to see the gallery of honorees, go to president.mansfield.edu/coin-for-excellence