“It’s fitting that Duquesne University bestow an honorary degree on Bob Mallet during this special ceremony.  Bob has helped to transform the Business School for a new era as a tribute to his dad’s legacy.  In doing so, Bob has made a positive and profound contribution on many levels.”

Kenneth Gormley, J.D.
President, Duquesne University

Bob supports the School of Business and its students by engaging regularly with students and faculty in classes, presentations and competitions.  In 2019, he funded the Duquesne New Venture Challenge, a competition which inspires entrepreneurs to develop and execute their business models.  Earlier, Bob also funded the construction of the School of Business’ Louis D. Mallet Entrepreneurship Zone as well as Bob’s Launch Pad, a maker space that provides a hands-on area for students to develop and prototype products.

“Bob is a deep thinker and his insights, suggestions and humility are appreciated and always welcome.  I can’t thank Bob enough, nor can I imagine where we would be without Bob’s engagement, help and support.”

Dean B. McFarlin, Ph.D.
Dean, Palumbo-Donahue School of Business

Mallet & Company was a market-leading North American provider of baking agents that offered innovative products and capabilities to the food industry.  Bob followed in his father’s footsteps and served as president and CEO of Mallet & Company for nearly 30 years.  Mallet & Company was acquired in 2016.

Bob’s father Louis Mallet graduated from Duquesne in 1940 with a degree in economics after nine years of tireless work.  Louis’ family was unable to afford the lump sum of tuition, so Duquesne worked out an informal tuition plan to help him pay for school.  Louis worked hard to complete his degree, attending classes in the morning, selling yeast to bakeries in the afternoon, and studying in the evening.

He also launched Home Kitchen Company out of his mother’s kitchen, developing innovative custom oil blends for the baking industry.  Because of his entrepreneurial spirit, persistence and desire to succeed, the company—later renamed Mallet & Company—grew to become an international success.

“Duquesne took a chance on my dad.  That’s why I give to and volunteer in the Palumbo-Donahue School of Business.  It has become one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

Robert I. Mallet,
Former President and Chief Executive Officer of Mallet & Company