Riverland Community College

An Austin native, Jerry graduated from Austin High School in 1955, spent four years in the Air Force, and returned home to begin his college education. To save money and live at home, he chose to attend “Riverland” – then Austin Junior College – because “Riverland offered an excellent education in a small environment.” Jerry graduated from Riverland in 1961. With a goal of becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), he enrolled at the University of Minnesota where he enjoyed much success. Jerry received the Harold Utely award in 1963 in recognition of his achieving the highest score on the state of Minnesota uniform CPA examination that year. Jerry commented, “Riverland gave me the basic education that enabled me to further my education and excel in my chosen profession.”

Jerry worked for six years with two international accounting firms. In the mid-sixties, he bought into the Austin CPA firm of Bowlby Anfinson. The firm grew from five employees to 75 employees eventually merging with Larson Allen.

In addition to Jerry’s professional accomplishments, he also shared his talents and experience in public service: He helped create the Development Corporation of Austin and Apex-Austin (a group whose efforts led to the creation of a Welcome Center and other programs targeted at assisting new residents who moved to Austin from all over the world). He also served previously on the Worlein Funeral Home board.

Jerry retired in 1995 and spends the majority of his time with wife Carol, who was a Riverland Foundation Board Member 1992-98, in Naples, Florida. He currently serves as President of the Wilderness Condominium Association, Inc. and the Wilderness Country Club, Inc. Distance is no obstacle because Jerry’s commitment to Austin remains strong: Jerry serves as Treasurer of the Hormel Foundation Board. His continued support of our college and the community of Austin earned Jerry the 1991 Distinguished Alumnus Award from Riverland Community College.

When asked what advice he has for students today, Jerry shared the following, “You can continue to create value, talent, and skills for yourself by continuing your education. Never give up on educating yourself, because your current or future employer will ultimately pay you for the added talent and expertise you gain with additional education.”