Ben Franklin

This fund was established by Benjamin O. Franklin, Jr. in 2004 for the purpose of supporting teaching, research and programs in the Poe Center for Business Ethics Education and Research at the Warrington College of Business.

Franklin earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Florida in 1934. At UF, he became a member of Sigma Nu Fraternity.

Franklin is the former president of Franklin Crates, Inc., manufacturer of wooden and wire bound crates for fruits and vegetables. The company was started by his father in 1916, and he took over operations after his father died in 1937. In 1976, Ben III took charge to continue the family legacy.

Ben was married to Grace Newins. Ben passed away on July 07, 2009, and Grace preceded him in death on March 11, 2001. The couple had three children: Molly, Barbara and Ben III.