News
Roberts Confers an Honorary Doctor of Commercial Sciences on Dwight M. (Kip) Palmer
Roberts Wesleyan University bestowed an Honorary Doctor of Commercial Sciences on Dwight M. (Kip) Palmer at its annual commencement held on May 13.
Palmer has served as a distinguished leader, a friend, supporter, and former Trustee of Roberts Wesleyan University and Northeastern Seminary for 24 years, and served as Board Chair for seven years.
He was instrumental in the launching of Northeastern Seminary in 1998, Roberts Wesleyan College achieving the status of Roberts Wesleyan University in 2022, and the completion of multiple buildings, including the new Golisano Community Engagement Center.
Under the board leadership of Palmer, the University has reached significant milestones, and provided students with a transformational education, fulfilling its mission, and causing a ripple effect of innovation and hope throughout the community.
Palmer is a native of Rochester, NY, and received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Wittenberg University. Following college, he joined his father as the fifth-generation owner, in building Rochester-based Palmer Food Services and Syracuse-based G&C Food Distributors. Palmer is now the CEO of the Palmer Family of Companies.
He is recognized in the Greater Rochester and Syracuse business community as a leader and mentor in the foodservice industry, and under his leadership, the companies have stabilized and grown as recognized frontrunners in food distribution and service.
Palmer's innovative spirit and continual drive to serve his associates and community can be seen in his partnerships within the local community, where he contributes his time and resources to help advance the mission of each organization he works with.
Palmer’s wife Amy was in attendance at commencement for the conferring of his honorary degree, along with several of his close friends and family members.