RADFORD – R. J. Kirk recently received the medallion for entrepreneurship from Beta Gamma Sigma, a national business honor society designed to promote scholarship, advancement of education in business and integrity in the conduct of business operations.

The medallion is awarded to outstanding individuals who combine innovative business achievement with service to humanity. The award was established to recognize individuals and firms who contribute significantly to the vitality and strength of the economy.

The RU chapter of Beta Gamma Sigma nominated Kirk, a 1976 RU graduate. Kirk has extensive experience as a successful entrepreneur. His varied roles include serving as founder and director of Third Security, LLC, a private investment and advisory firm, and as chairman, president and chief executive of New River Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Kirk’s generosity at RU has led to the endowment of the Zylphia Shu-En Kirk Scholars Program, which is named in his daughter’s honor and provides selected students the opportunity to study Mandarin Chinese and culture and travel to China. He has worked with RU in a variety of capacities and serves as rector of the RU Board of Visitors and as a member of the RU Foundation Board of Directors.