SALEM – North Powder rancher Jack Wilson received the Distinguished Alumni Citation award recently from Willamette University.

Wilson, who is president of Wilson Cattle Company, graduated from Willamette University in 1952 with a bachelor’s degree in political science.

In addition to being president of Wilson Cattle Company, a written statement shows he has been a leader in improved grazing practices and land stewardship.

Wilson also is co-founder of SupremeCorq, an innovative company that is the largest developer of synthetic wine closures in the world.

Along with his ranching and entrepreneurial activities, Wilson has served as director of First Interstate Bank of Oregon for 17 years, as director for the Oregon Historical Society and helped bring the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center to Baker City, and as director for the Statewide Organization for Schools.

He is a trustee of the Leo Adler Charitable Trust, a $25 million trust that provides scholarships and grants to Baker County and the town of North Powder, and an advisor for the Northeastern Oregon Heritage Fund.

A written statement shows the Distinguished Alumni Citation is awarded annually to alumni who have brought distinction to themselves and their alma mater through accomplishments in their profession and community service.

Wilson’s wife, Meredith Wilson, and his family attended the recognition dinner.