International College announced on May 15, 2007 that it received a $12 million gift from long-time Naples residents and community benefactors Earl and Thelma Hodges. In conjunction with the gift, the institution changed its name to Hodges University and moved from college status to university status.

Hodges University’s Associate Professor of Business Administration, Dr. Aysegul Timur, was honored with a best presenter award at the 2007 Global Business & Economics Research Conference in Istanbul, Turkey. Dr. Timur’s report, “The Impact of the European Integration on the Pharmaceutical Industry,” was picked best out of the 50 presentations at the global event.

The Hispanic Institute at Hodges University has named Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Venice as its 2012 Promise Award recipient. The Award is presented annually to a community group or member who exemplifies society’s most valued human characteristics and thus serves as a distinguished example of social responsibility, determination, dedication, and moral character.

At a recent session, the Lee County Commissioners formally recognized the Hispanic Institute at Hodges University as “a valued resource with an essential role in the community,” and proclaimed September 14, 2012 as “Hispanic Institute Day” in Lee County.

Lee Pitts, host of the “Lee Pitts Live” television program, has awarded its first “Diversity Excellence Award” to Hodges University. The award is given to an organization in our area that exemplifies a true commitment and appreciation for diversity within its structure and throughout our community.

Hodges University has awarded an Honorary Doctor of Public Service degree to alumnae Donna Marie Hamilton Ross.

Earl and Thelma Hodges have been married for more than 50 years and have been actively involved in a wide variety of local civic and charitable causes and are long-time supporters of Hodges University.