Investing where it matters most

Runkle champions ethics, education and opportunity at Harbert College of Business

For Auburn alumnus Bob Runkle ‘77, investing in the next generation of business leaders is both a professional priority and a personal commitment.

Through the Barron’s Investing in Education Program, Runkle and The Runkle Group have helped bring real-world financial insights into Harbert College of Business classrooms, enhancing the academic experience for students preparing to enter an increasingly complex global economy.

The experiential learning program, co-branded by Barron’s and MarketWatch, provides faculty with a curated “Weekly Review” while offering students a focused “Market Brief” that delivers timely market context they can immediately apply in classroom discussions. The program also includes access to guest speakers and webinars featuring financial professionals, further connecting students to the industry.

The Runkle Group began providing access to the Barron’s program when it first launched in December 2019 and has remained a committed supporter of the initiative ever since. For Runkle, this long-term investment reflects his belief that staying competitive, especially in a rapidly changing, AI-driven economy, requires more than technical knowledge. It requires ethics, strong leadership and a sense of responsibility to the broader community.

“Investing in the next generation of business professionals ensures they have the skills, ethics and leadership needed to build stronger businesses and communities,” Runkle said.

Beyond financial support, Runkle’s connection to Harbert extends through meaningful engagement with students. He has spoken twice to the Financial Management Association, where he especially values the question-and-answer sessions that highlight students’ preparation, curiosity and professionalism.

In 2025, Runkle also joined FMA students during the program’s New York City visit and helped create meaningful industry touchpoints by arranging meetings with Barron’s and Morgan Stanley’s Private Bank.

For students, the experience was especially meaningful because they were able to learn from one of the world’s leading financial institutions while sharing that experience with a successful Auburn alumnus and respected private wealth management leader. It reinforced the value of hard work, education and the practical application they are receiving through the Harbert College of Business.

Professor of Practice in the Department of Finance and Executive Director of the Harbert Investment Center Tracy Richard is immensely grateful for Runkle’s continued investment in Harbert students.

“Bob’s support means so much because he recognizes the talent, humility and work ethic of our Harbert students, who are putting in the hours to become strong professionals and leaders,” she said. “The fact that Bob sees that in them and chooses to invest his time, wisdom and resources reminds our students that their hard work matters and that Auburn students belong in the most competitive rooms in finance.”

Runkle and The Runkle Group also remain accessible to students seeking guidance on careers in financial services, offering mentorship, industry insight and support related to internships and professional development.

When asked to share advice for current Harbert students, Runkle kept it simple, but insightful.

“Always do right.”

It’s a principle that defines his professional life and his enduring commitment to Auburn—ensuring that today’s students are prepared not only to succeed in business, but to lead with integrity.

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Learn more about giving back to the Harbert College of Business