High Point University And The Furniture Industry Honor Patrick H. Norton

Furniture World Magazine

More than 750 people from the home furnishings industry gathered at the Grandover Resort Conference Center on Saturday, April 8 to honor Patrick H. Norton, chairman of La-Z-Boy Incorporated. The event was a fundraiser for the Patrick H. Norton Scholarship Fund and building fund at High Point University. In 1992, a $50,000 fund drive undertaken by La-Z-Boy sales representatives, proprietary retailers and members of the corporate staff, resulted in the establishment of the Patrick H. Norton Scholarship Fund at High Point University. Since that initial funding, contributions from all corners of the furniture industry and Norton himself have continued to increase the level of the fund. Following the most recent drive, the fund reached more than $500,000, the amount needed to reach the original goal of a fund that will continue in perpetuity in Norton's honor. "We have been absolutely overwhelmed by the level of response and the generous donations we've received from fellow members of the furniture industry," said Steve Matlock, La-Z-Boy sales representative for Arizona and one of the primary organizers of the scholarship. "This fund is a true testament to the contributions Pat Norton has made to the furniture industry and the many lives he has touched, as well as those he will continue to touch." The Patrick H. Norton Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to students majoring in home furnishings marketing, home furnishings management or interior design at High Point University. Scholarships are awarded to a number of students each year based on criteria of merit and financial need. Since its inception, more than 21 scholarships have been awarded to qualifying students. In addition to the heartwarming tributes, the celebration held a few surprises for the widely known and respected industry icon. Norton was presented with an honorary doctorate of law degree by Dr. Jacob C. Martinson, president of High Point University, who also announced that the new International School of Home Furnishings building will be named Norton Hall. "In a time when the furniture industry is in great need of young talent, the Patrick H. Norton Scholarship Fund continues to help fill that void by providing the opportunity for students to make home furnishings their career of choice," said Martinson. "There simply is no one in the industry more deserving of this dedication than Pat." As part of the evening's events, a check for $300,000 was donated to the building fund for the International School of Home Furnishings. When completed, the home furnishings school will provide manufacturers and retailers alike with a steady stream of qualified and motivated young people to fill the ranks in the home furnishings industry. Additionally, the school will provide a source of continuing education, workshops and seminars for the industry at large. Norton initiated his career in the retail furniture business in 1945, eventually joining Nat Ancell at the Baumritter Corporation in 1962. He rapidly rose in the ranks, playing a major role in establishing Ethan Allen as the premier furniture retailer. During 1981, he left his position as senior vice president at Ethan Allen to join La-Z-Boy as senior vice president of sales and marketing. He was elected to the board of directors of La-Z-Boy that same year. Norton was instrumental in expanding the La-Z-Boy product line and accelerating its growth. With his wealth of experience in developing premier retail distribution, he established the format growth of the La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries into one of the fastest growing store networks in the industry. During his tenure with La-Z-Boy, the company's annual sales have increased from $155 million to in excess of $2 billion. His success at La-Z-Boy enabled the corporation to acquire several recognized, quality furniture manufacturers, which resulted in one of the largest furniture manufacturing conglomerates in the United States. In 1997, he was named chairman of the board. Amongst the many awards Norton has received are the National Brotherhood Award of The National Conference of Christians and Jews, The City of Hope Spirit of Life Award and induction into the American Furniture Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame. He also is a founder and past chairman of the Home Furnishings Council.