Campus News

Ruddell named to College Board of Trustees

Trustee brings varied business background, support of higher ed to new role

Gary Ruddell has been appointed by Governor Larry Hogan to serve on the Garrett College Board of Trustees.

Gary Ruddell, chairman of Grantsville-based Total Biz Fulfillment, Inc. knows there is a strong connection between education and the business community.

"I'm a big believer in education for all ages, with a focus towards higher learning," said Ruddell, who on Monday was appointed by Governor Larry Hogan to serve on the Garrett College Board of Trustees. "As a community business leader, I've always taken a lot of delight in helping people realize their dreams, with education playing a critical role in that process."

Ruddell said he came away from a recent tour of Garrett College's Career Technology Training Center (CTTC) in Accident impressed with the College's commitment to workforce development.

"I really was bowled over with the visit to the technology center. It's absolutely amazing," Ruddell said of the facility in which Garrett College delivers most of its high-tech workforce training programs.

Ruddell – a 1974 graduate of the University of Maryland – has enjoyed a varied business career that's included banking, development, and fulfillment services. One of the many reasons Ruddell said he moved to Garrett County was "the very positive work environment and the strength of the people."

In addition to serving as chairman of Total Biz Fulfillment, Inc. – a business services provider for more than 53 different international and domestic companies – Ruddell is a former member of the Board of Directors for First United Bank and Trust. He also served as a director on the Garrett County Economic Development Corporation, which focuses on the creation of new businesses and the expansion of established businesses.

"Gary brings an incredible amount of experience in business, banking and establishing community relationships," said Don Morin, chair of the Garrett College Board of Trustees. "He is going to be a very valued addition to our Board."

Ruddell, who grew up in Prince George's County, said the Garrett County environment pulled him westward.

"We have disagreements, we talk it through and we reach consensus – that's the way we move forward here," said Ruddell, who believes the county's collaborative spirit is one key to its success.

Ruddell and his wife, Luanne, live in Oakland. Their son, Paul, is chief executive officer of Total Biz Fulfillment.