Learfield employees enjoyed a two-day celebration in Dallas, Texas, last week to commemorate the Missouri-based company's 40-year history. Learfield Communications celebrated its 40th anniversary, paying tribute to its more than 350 employees, senior leadership team and co-founders Clyde Lear and the late Derry Brownfield.
The diverse media enterprise started out in Jefferson City as a small farm network in 1972. Learfield Sports was launched three years later as a natural extension to its business, handling the radio rights to the University of Missouri, a partner still today.
Years later, Learfield Sports is now the company's primary operating unit and a highly recognized leader in the collegiate multimedia rights arena with more than 50 properties.
"It's quite an accomplishment to be in business for four decades, and we wanted to do something special to celebrate what has been a tremendous year in business and in recognition of our 40th," said Learfield President and CEO Greg Brown.
Giving back to the community was also a part of the 40th celebration. Brown participated in the "Over the Edge" fundraiser last October, rappelling 13 stories from the Jefferson State Office Building. Learfield employees raised more than $15,000 for the Special Olympics Missouri.
Accompanying photo: Author Seth Godin and Clyde Lear
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