Beta Alpha Psi Honors Bradley Alumnus

By Brandon Wallace '17

Bradley accounting alumnus David DeFreitas ’87 was recently named Beta Alpha Psi’s Business Professional of the Year for industry and government. DeFreitas is the Group CFO at Caterpillar, Inc., current chair of the Foster College of Business' National Council of Advisors and previously served as chair of the accounting department’s advisory council.

DeFreitas credited mentors from college and his early career for sparking a desire to engage the community.

“I am truly honored to receive this award,” DeFreitas said. ”I engage at Bradley and in the community because I owe it to the students in those organizations and citizens in the communities I support. Knowing how much I benefitted from the guidance of people who volunteered their time and insight as I was in college, I developed a desire to give back.”

Department Chair Dr. Simon Petravick submitted the nomination essay on behalf of Bradley's Beta Alpha Psi student chapter. It emphasized his generosity to the chapter, the university and to his local community, and pointed out how students admire him both as a professional and as a person.

“Dave has been a tremendous supporter of our College, department and community,” Petravick said. “I am very happy that he has received this award.”

DeFreitas has been active as a speaker, leadership expert and advocate for local nonprofits.

“Dave has been an invaluable member of the Foster College National Council of Advisors since 2008,” said Foster College of Business Dean Dr. Darrell Radson. “He has been a key member in shaping the organizational structure of the Council, including working with me on the development and revision of the Council Charter. As Chair, Dave facilitates our campus meetings, plays an active role in setting the agenda, and holds members accountable for follow-up activities. Dave is truly deserving of this award.”

DeFreitas will be honored at BAP’s annual meeting August 7 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Bradley’s Beta Alpha Psi chapter will also receive a $2,000 award. The chapter will use the funds to subsidize operations and keep the students' annual dues to a minimum.