Inaugural UWG President’s Medallion Awarded Posthumously to Bob Stone Share this page
The University of West Georgia presented its inaugural President's Medallion during Friday’s spring Commencement ceremony, awarding the honor posthumously to Robert Joseph “Bob” Stone Sr. The medallion recognizes individuals and organizations whose service and leadership leave a lasting impact on the university and the broader community.
Established by UWG President Dr. Michael Johnson, the President’s Medallion is awarded at the sole discretion of the president. The medallion was presented during the 1 p.m. Commencement ceremony honoring graduates from the Richards College of Business and the School of Communication, Film and Media, with members of the Stone family accepting the honor on his behalf.
“We are deeply honored to accept this award on behalf of my dad, Bob Stone,” said Bill Stone, CEO of Systems and Methods, Inc. “The University of West Georgia – and especially the Stone Center – held a special place in his heart. He believed strongly in the power of education, community and entrepreneurship, and he poured that passion into everything he did. Giving back was never an obligation to him; it was a privilege. This recognition is a meaningful tribute to a life dedicated to building opportunities and investing in others. We’re grateful for his legacy to be recognized in this meaningful way.”
Stone, who passed away in November 2025 at the age of 85, shared a deep and enduring connection to UWG. He served as a faculty member at West Georgia College before going on to found SMI, which grew into a respected and influential pillar of the region’s business community. Throughout his life, Stone remained a steadfast advocate for education, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
At UWG, Stone’s legacy is most visibly reflected through the Stone Center for Family Business, Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the Richards College of Business. Established through his generosity and vision, the center continues to equip students with the tools, mentorship and innovative mindset needed to lead ethical, family‑centered businesses and entrepreneurial ventures.
Awarded an honorary doctorate in humane letters by UWG in 2012, Stone’s service extended far beyond the university. He was widely known throughout Carrollton and the west Georgia region as a servant leader whose faith, generosity and quiet determination shaped countless civic, educational and philanthropic initiatives.
Through the establishment of the President’s Medallion, UWG recognizes individuals whose legacy reflects enduring commitment to the institution and its students. Johnson said awarding the inaugural medallion to Stone was especially meaningful.
“Bob Stone’s life reflected a deep belief in the power of education to transform lives and communities,” Johnson said. “As a faculty member, entrepreneur and community leader, he exemplified what it means to serve with purpose. It was fitting that the first President's Medallion in UWG’s history honored a man whose impact on this university and our region will be felt for generations.”
photography by Sidney Chansamone