St. Ambrose University is proudly recognizing the servant leadership and profound institutional impact of this year’s McMullen Award recipients: Paul ‘76 and Alva Sachs, and Don “Duke” Schneider ‘76.
The distinguished award was established on September 4, 2006, as St. Ambrose University began its celebration of 125 years of educational excellence in Davenport and the surrounding communities. It continues today as the university's second highest honor.
St Ambrose is pleased to honor the recipients during a mass in Christ the King Chapel on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
Paul ‘76 and Alva Sachs
Together, Paul and Alva Sachs have built a life centered on education, family, and service. Through their shared commitment to giving back, they have inspired countless others to do the same.
Paul is a distinguished alumnus who exemplifies excellence in leadership, service, and professional achievement. Coming from a family of seven children, scholarships were essential in enabling him to attend St. Ambrose. After graduating in 1976 with a degree in accounting, he worked on multiple high-profile accounts as a partner at Arthur Andersen before becoming a Founding Managing Director of Protiviti, a global business consulting firm, where he recently retired.
Paul’s commitment to service extends beyond the corporate world. He joined the Board of Trustees at St. Ambrose University in 2002 and has played a key role in supporting capital campaigns.
Alongside him is his wife, Alva, a dedicated educator, community volunteer, and leader. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Illinois, followed by a master’s in education from Northern Illinois University. As an award-winning children’s author and founder of Three Wishes Publishing Company, Alva has dedicated her career to inspiring young readers. Through her literacy foundation, she provides empowering resources for children and educators, fostering fluency, concentration, creativity, and brain development at an early age.
It comes as no surprise that Paul and Alva are relentless champions for the Ambrose Annual Fund, ensuring that all students have access to a St. Ambrose education. As compassionate philanthropists with nearly 40 years of consecutive giving, few individuals embody the university’s core values of courage, wisdom, justice, and service as they do.
Through their unwavering commitment to charitable giving and service, the Sachs continue to inspire future generations of St. Ambrose students. They demonstrate that true success is measured not only by professional achievements but also by the impact one has on others and the world.
Don “Duke” Schneider ‘76
For over four decades (and counting), Don “Duke” Schneider ‘76 has been synonymous with St. Ambrose. His life’s work has left a lasting impact on generations of students, faculty, alumni, and the university as a whole.
Schneider’s journey with St. Ambrose began in 1972 when he arrived as a student in the Communication Department. He was deeply involved in the college’s media outlets, contributing to the radio and TV stations, the school newspaper, and theatre productions.
A few years after graduating, Schneider returned to campus as the Operations Manager of the college TV station. During his 43-year career, he played a pivotal role in expanding St. Ambrose’s digital media platforms and shaping the careers of hundreds of students. His leadership equipped them with the skills needed to succeed in an industry where technology is constantly evolving.
But Ambrosians know Schneider for more than just his professional role—he was always there. He attended campus events to ensure every story was covered. He worked alongside students, teaching them the nuances of covering live sports. He was always available to help those struggling to edit a news story, work the camera, or perfect their on-screen delivery. His dedication to student success and the SAU community was unwavering.
As a beloved mentor, Schneider guided aspiring communicators with wisdom and encouragement, fostering relationships that continued long after graduation. His passion for storytelling and his commitment to his students left an indelible mark. Today, his phone is still filled with messages from alumni sharing updates on their careers, awards, and life milestones—a testament to the profound impact he has had on so many.
Through his dedication to communication, mentorship, and service, Schneider’s legacy will continue to inspire the St. Ambrose community for years to come. His contributions extend far beyond the classroom, shaping the minds and futures of countless students and colleagues.
