Southeast Missouri State University alumnus Paul Dobbins is working to create opportunities for the next generation of Redhawks.
Dobbins attended SEMO from 1998-2003, earning a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and his connection to the University is part of a family legacy. Paul and his wife are both SEMO graduates, and his father, Dr. Kenneth W. Dobbins, served as SEMO’s 17th president from 1999-2015.
A first-generation college graduate, Dr. Kenneth W. Dobbins took pride in celebrating students who were the first in their families to earn a college degree. Watching his father honor those student accomplishments has inspired his own decision to support students.
“My whole family has been associated with SEMO for a while now,” Dobbins said. “I’ve seen firsthand what scholarships can do.”
As owner of the Copper Dome Whiskey brand, Dobbins felt there was an opportunity to connect the brand with helping students. His vision led to the creation of the 1906 Society, an invitation-based membership program focused on supporting SEMO students through scholarships.
“I did this as a gateway to be able to give back to the University,” Dobbins said.
Working with SEMO President Dr. Brad Hodson, Dobbins established a plan to direct Copper Dome licensing fees toward an endowed scholarship. Money from every bottle of Copper Dome sold goes toward the scholarship fund, while a percentage of 1906 Society membership dues also directly support scholarships.
“We want to build something that leaves a legacy,” Dobbins said.
Dobbins’ long-term vision is to eventually help a student cover the cost of an entire college education.
“I’d love for Copper Dome to be an example of what folks can do by making the part of giving back such a big part of a brand,” Dobbins said. “Anyone can do this with their business.”
For Dobbins, the connection between his business and SEMO is ultimately about creating opportunities for others and building something that lasts.
To connect with Paul Dobbins, contact paul@copperdomewhiskey.com. For more information about the 1906 Society, visit 1906Society.com.