Stew Leonard Jr. '77

Professional Achievement Award

For nearly 30 years, Stew Leonard Jr., accounting major from IC’s Class of ’77, has served as President and CEO of Stew Leonard’s, the legendary chain of dairy and food stores dubbed the “Disneyland of Dairy Stores” by the New York Times. During his tenure, Stew has presided over the chain’s expansion to include four food stores in Connecticut and New York, as well as nine wine stores in Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey.

The company is regularly featured on FORTUNE Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” list, and Stew Leonard’s Wines was recognized by Wine Enthusiast Magazine as “Retailer of the Year” in 2011 and 2013. Stew has fostered the company’s philosophy of promoting from within and providing positive reinforcement that has resulted in its longtime reputation for excellent customer service and team member development. As a result, Stew is a sought-after public speaker, and was listed as one of the top 25 speakers from the Washington Speakers Bureau.

In addition to leading the family business to acclaim and success, Stew and his wife, Kim, are actively involved in giving back to the community through philanthropic initiatives that include establishing Stew Leonard III Children’s Charities, which offers swimming lessons to thousands of underprivileged youths each year.

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