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I met Rudy mostly in the hallways of the Smith School and we talked about life as it went by. Memorable are his laughter and joy that were always uplifting.
Dilip Madan

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I first met Rudy when I was interviewing for a faculty position during Xmas in 1967. He was different from the start. As a former musician, he had a ducktail haircut. Al Nash, another member of our faculty, gave the most memorable talk I have ever heard when introducing Rudy as our first Dean at the 1973 Eastern Academy of Management Meeting attended by 200 males. Years later, we talked about this talk and Rudy's mild response. I went home to Doris, discombobulated, and said: I think I have joined a faculty of madmen. Go to htpps://martingannon.org for additional information. Those still remaining from that time all miss Rudy, as we were at business schools at an exciting time, and hollered and screamed at one another as we created a blueprint for the school. We cleaned up our language only when we hired female professors. It was great fun, and Rudy was our leader.

Marty Gannon

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The many letters from Rudy Lamone's Maryland friends and colleagues tell one story about his vibrant, productive life.  The following paragraphs tell another story --  of a Rudy just as vibrant and productive, but "slanted" in a little different direction -- first as leader of a popular dance combo at Fort Bragg, and then as a member of the well known college dance band, the Duke Ambassadors.

I connected with Rudy in 1955. I had just recovered from a serious illness that interrupted my Indiana University music studies, and Rudy was just out of the Army and living in Fayetteville, N.C.  He had played in the Ft. Bragg Post Band and knew the commercial music opportunities at the many military clubs nearby.

Rudy was an experienced tenor saxophone player, I was a keyboard person (vibraphone in those days), and together with bassist Gil Dickerson, Post Band First Sergeant and drummer Bobby Wren, and a woman singer we "hit the circuit" of officer's, sergeant's, and non-com's venues. It was a good band musically, but it was especially popular with the people because of Rudy's appeal at the microphone -- and as a leader.  He knew the military life and was at ease with the dancers and the surroundings.  And, yes, the Dr. Lamone of those days could "get down" when the lights were low, the beat was heavy, and the need arose.

But Rudy had also picked up another life, one as a student. Looking forward to moving eventually to the University of North Carolina, he enrolled in (then) Campbell College near Fayetteville, where he took business and other courses that would mesh with the program he wanted to follow at Carolina.  And if memory serves correctly, Rudolph Lamone graduated valedictorian of his senior class at Campbell.

Fast forward to the spring of 1956.  I had enrolled at Duke in Durham, Rudy at Carolina just a few miles away in Chapel Hill.  Duke University was home base for the Duke Ambassaors, a long-standing remnant of the big-band era that entertained at many North Carolina functions: the Azalea Festival in Wilmington with its famous celebrities, at conventions, parties, and university dances, and once even along with Duke Ellington!  Duke was also the alma mater of Les Brown (of "The Band of Renown" fame), and the Ambassadors profited well from that connection. Both Rudy and I joined the band, Rudy in the saxophone section, I first at the keyboard and later as leader. See the Wikipedia on the Ambassadors and the "flickr" collection of band photographs.

The Ambassadors had also been chosen by the Military Air Transport Service (MATS) to entertain at bases outside the U.S., and we relished those trips: the Azores, Bermuda, the Canal Zone, others. Rudy and I both made the month-long visit to the Canal Zone in 1958, where we took the full band and our co-ed singers and dancers to every military installation in the Zone -- from remote artillery batteries to busy Panama City, where we played with local steel-drum musicians at the popular "W" club.

But then our paths diverged. After finishing Duke I pursued an engineering program at N. C. State and graduate work at the Univ. of Illinois. I began an academic career in 1965 -- Brooklyn Polytechnic, Iowa State, U.C. Berkeley, Univ. of Oviedo (Spain).  Rudy finished his Ph.D. at Carolina and joined Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business in 1966, ultimately becoming an icon for the best in Entrepreneurship, as well documented by the writings of others in this memorial collection.

I saw Rudy Lamone only a few times after our North Carolina years, most notably once at the final reunion of the old Ambassadors at a resort in Southern Pines, N.C.  We had all changed, grown older, matured, lost some of our musicianly ways (and probably some of our musicianship also).  We were doctors and dentists and lawyers and teachers who 40 years earlier could snap out Les Brown's "Tea for Two" for the likes of Kathryn Grayson, Esther Williams, Ronald Reagan and even for "The Duke" himself.

And Rudy (i.e., Dr. Lamone) was in the sax section, maybe squinting just a bit more to catch the key signatures and the quarter rests and concentrating just a bit more on the drummer's time and my chord changes.  But it was just the old Rudy in new clothes, and we all sensed that at our first meal together when he said something like "Wow, It's great to be back, ya' dig, but has somebody changed that last arrangement? It seems harder to play now than it used to be!"

If I knew more about the business world than I do I would try to draw parallels between Rudy's musical skills and those he's shown in more recent years -- I'm pretty sure they exist.  But perhaps it's enough simply to close with a suggestion. In the Smith Dining Hall -- Rudy's Cafe -- hang a sign at the entrance saying: "Only good music is played here -- Rudy's music!"

The photo is of the 1958 Duke Ambassadors.  Rudy Lamone is playing 2nd tenor saxophone in the front row on the extreme left and, unfortunately, hidden by yours truly.

Other members of the '58 Ambassadors:

Richard Gable, John Ziolkowski, Norm Nelson, trumpets

Patrick Williams, trumpet but shown holding the bass

Bob Payson, William Baylis, Bernie Buteau, trombones

Charlie Culbreath, Bill Rouse, Fred Whitener,..., saxophones

Linsy Farris, Bass

Bobby Harrison, drums

Janis Applewhite, vocals

Written by Ken Jolls, leader and vibraphone player

April 5, 2023

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It is not often that one encounters someone who truly changes the trajectory of your life. For me, Rudy Lamone was one such person. He was a mentor, a cheerleader, but mostly a good friend when I was a young first time CEO. He’s dedication to the people that leaned on him for advice was second to none. I will always miss my Tuesday’s with Rudy at that Italian restaurant. Thank you for what you did for me and for so many entrepreneurs. You are a hero to many. I will miss you my dear friend.
Joseph Hernandez
CEO
Blue Water Vaccines and Blue Water Acquisition Corp.

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Passion. Vision. Warmth. Humor.  These are just some of the words that come to my mind when thinking about Rudy. While his accomplishments in developing the business school and the entrepreneurship center are indeed impressive, what I have found most admirable about him was his genuine interest and commitment to people. I was hired by Rudy in 1982 and consider myself fortunate to have him as my dean and colleague for so many years. Rudy created a family atmosphere during his deanship – no need for a separate dean of culture and community during those times.  We were all blessed the Rudy continued to be such a positive force at the School up to his last days. When you saw Rudy in the halls you wanted to stop and talk to him and he always lifted your spirits. To earn the respect and love of so many is surely the sign of well-lived life.
Marty Loeb

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My husband and I are the professional groomers who come to take care of Mr. Lamone’s cats. We were always greeted with a big smile and a kind hello from Mr. Rudy. When my children were born and came with us to help with the cats, Mr. Rudy was always willing to hang out with them while we did the cats services. He had such big heart and a loving disposition. We will miss you Mr. Rudy and we will continue to support Mrs. Lamone with the cats and anything else we can do to help! In loving memory. 🙏🏼 ♥️

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Rudy was a dear friend and the best supporter. I met Rudy at the Dingman Center, and as a fellow Italian, we connected immediately. The following week we were having lunch at his favorite Italian restaurant - a place where we went back many times afterwards.  When I started my first company, he was there for me. He was a passionate supporter, gave me that constant boost of confidence, and even the first investment, together with Charlie. He showed me what was possible. He has inspired dozens of young entrepreneurs and he leaves the Dingman Center as his legacy.
I am forever grateful to Rudy, and I miss him.
- Valerio Zanini, MBA '06

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Thinking of Rudy brings a smile to my face. He really was the face of the business school for me, first as an MBA student, then as a graduate assistant and employee of the Dingman Center. He was friendly, approachable, clever, creative, visionary, and a connector. What a full and rich life he lived, and what a legacy he leaves.
Susan Green Simpson, MBA ‘90

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rudy was a great boss  and great friend.

Dick O'Neill 69, 73

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Rudy, I will miss you very much my dear friend.  Over the last 37 years of my life, you went from “the” Dean to an admired and respected mentor and friend…you became a beloved family member to me, and I will forever carry your wisdom and unconditional commitment to Maryland forward.  You played such a significant role in my life, as you did with all your “kids.”  I feel grateful and blessed for your mentorship, encouragement, and friendship, all of which continued to grow well beyond my 4 years spent at Maryland’s RH Smith School of Business.  I am also very thankful you and my son Joey (2022) were able to meet and spend some time together in recent years; in a short period of time, he had the opportunity to experience first-hand why you were so important to me and all the kids you inspired and took under your wing.  Your inspiration and passion for the University of Maryland, the RH Smith School of Business and Dingman Center has always been contagious.  No doubt your kids will carry your memory, stories and mission forward with the same fervor as you, our teacher. I will miss our talks over the years, whether on the phone or in person, followed by a heartfelt hug or goodbye with “I love you man.”

Stephen Ferber ’90

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Rudy always spent time at GCEC meetings with me and wanted to know about my career, what I was accomplishing with the Entrepreneurship Program, and offered support. I will never forget his mentoring. He helped shaped Entrepreneurship not only at Maryland but also across the US with Don Kuratko and Tom O'Malia-all three gentlemen!
Dianne H.B. Welsh

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I was privileged to meet Rudy through GCEC. He always had time to share his expertise with colleagues and worked so hard to advance the mission of GCEC and Dingman. I recall several conversations at meals and on buses to GCEC activities. I am so sorry to learn of his passing and am thinking about his family and the Dingman Community.

Lynn Allendorf
Director, John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center at the University of Iowa

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It is impossible to think of the Smith School without thinking of Rudy. No one dedicated him or herself to the school more than Rudy.  While his administrative and intellectual contributions remain a legacy, foremost in my mind is that Rudy was a deeply caring person. The school owes him a debt of gratitude and we will all miss him dearly.
Mike Ball, Professor Emeritus

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Hearing Rudy answer the phone "hey, kid" is what I will miss the most. No matter what I was calling about he said those words and it always made me feel happy and a little bit special. He was truly happy to talk with me about anything Dingman or life-related. Rudy was a great listener and an enthusiastic cheerleader--it was a special feeling to have him in your corner and I am glad he was in mine for a while.

Rudy is the founder of two organizations that have or are employing me. First, the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship and now the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship (GCEC). Rudy was a pioneer in entrepreneurship education and he has a lasting legacy in both of these organizations. Rudy loved entrepreneurs especially student entrepreneurs. He never tired of hearing their ideas, offering solid advice, or making relevant connection if he could. Rudy will be missed and remembered by so many. His voice, his life, his intellect is legendary.
Holly DeArmond
Executive Director at the GCEC
Former Managing Director at the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship

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My family moved to Annapolis in the early 70’s and my father Knut met Rudy and Linda and they became fast friends. Rudy and Linda didn’t have children of their own and they quickly became 2nd parents to my sister Krista and me. Rudy was a mentor of mine since I was a little boy and continued in that role all my life. His advice was always welcome and I reached out to him whenever the need be, he was always available. Rudy wasn’t just a mentor he was a second father and he always treated me as a son. We all lost an important part of our lives and I will miss him dearly. I was fortunate enough to speak with him the week before he passed and our conversations always ended with “ I love you man”. Rest in peace Rudy, you will never be forgotten.

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My family moved to Annapolis in the early 70’s and my father Knut met Rudy and Linda and they became fast friends. Rudy and Linda didn’t have children of their own and they quickly became 2nd parents to my sister Krista and me. Rudy was a mentor of mine since I was a little boy and continued in that role all my life. His advice was always welcome and I reached out to him whenever the need be, he was always available. Rudy wasn’t just a mentor he was a second father and he always treated me as a son. We all lost an important part of our lives and I will miss him dearly. I was fortunate enough to speak with him the week before he passed and our conversations always ended with “ I love you man”. Rest in peace Rudy, you will never be forgotten.

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Kurt Aarsand

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Rudy was the best teacher, supporter and friend.  as one of the first DBA's, I was provided with the "Lamone Kids.  He assisted in my placement and became a role model for Business School graduates, faculty.  He provided the opportunity to work jointly on publications, provided a role model as I served as the dean of the college of business at U of Texas, and become one of the 12 eminent scholars in Alabama as well as a named endowed chair at UAB.  He was open and available to "everyone" and was a model to be followed. we became very close friends-assisting in his articles, developing the endowment, etc.  for which he never claimed. Rudy will be a most significant lost as a scholar, outriding individual and friend to all. Jay A. Smith, Jr.

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I was so sad to hear about Rudy’s passing. I was fortunate enough to have worked with Rudy for 18 years at Maryland Smith. As I was scrolling through old photos on my phone I saw a bunch with him because he was always out and about in Van Munching Hall and I was always taking candid pics for social media! This particular photo stood out as one of my favorites - with Testudo and the staff from the Dingman Center when we were filming the 2014 holiday video. Rudy was always ready and willing to take part in our fun community-building activities!

I realized the huge impact Rudy had at UMD when we created this video for his 80th birthday celebration:

https://youtu.be/7Iw2rAqJNgs

On a personal note, I really appreciated the advice he gave me about life and my career and I considered him a mentor, as many others have mentioned. I’ll miss you, Rudy! My deepest condolences go out to his family and friends.

- Alissa Arford '94, MBA '10

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I was both an Undergraduate and MBA at Maryland, back when the school was in Tydings Hall (without air conditioning, LOL) and shortly before Mr. Van Munching or Mr. Smith were so generous to Maryland.  Bit Rudy was there.  His signature is on my diploma which adorns my wall at my office. The older I get, the more I understand what a challenging job a Dean has.  Now that I'm in academia (TU, part of UMS), I better appreciate all things that a Dean does to guide faculty.  RIP, Rudy

Joe Zuccaro
BS '84
MBA '89

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It was always a fun time with Rudy around!  

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It was always a fun time with Rudy around!  

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I was just reminded of this photo when I told my dad of Rudy's passing. While taking Dingman Center team photos, he told me told me a slightly (or very) inappropriate joke! I sure wish I could remember what it was all these years later - but Rudy was always a good time! -Jennifer Hankin, '06, Dingman Center 2010-2012

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Rudy was one of my dearest friends. In addition to our friendship, we were also professional colleagues. It was my honor to be Director of the Dingman Center for Entrepreneurship for ten years--the center Rudy founded when he was Dean of the Smith School. Not only was Rudy far ahead of his peers around the country in forming an entrepreneurship center but, at the same time, he put UM's business school on the map. Perhaps most importantly, Rudy was one of the kindest, warmest, and most loyal persons I've ever been lucky enough to know. His legacy will live on...
Charles Ota Heller, PhD

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Rudy Lamone, Dean Alex Triantis and me at 2017 Rudy Awards

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That's how Rudy always greeted me when he'd come to work (well into his 80s) because that is how he thought about all of us -- as his kids.  Working as the Managing Director of the Dingman Center, helping to carry out Rudy's mission to educate the next generation of entrepreneurs, was an honor.  Rudy - you were a one of a kind entrepreneur, leader, networker, mentor and friend. Elana Fine '97

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Rudy was a great friend and mentor both to me and my husband, Lou Cantolupo (FT MBA Terp, 2001).  After Lou and I were engaged, Rudy got a kick out of yelling "Mrs. Cantolupo!" at me down the halls of VMH. It made me smile every time, and I always knew who it was.

He was one of a kind.  He will be greatly missed.
Judy K. Frels, Ph.D.
Prof of Marketing

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A mentor, friend, and confidante for 30 years, Rudy has forever left an imprint. His optimism and the pride he took in all of his "kids" is what will always stand out. While most people like to be interesting, Rudy's selfless attitude made him the most interested. Always asking questions about my family, wishing me well on special events, you couldn't help but be disarmed by his authentic, caring, charming nature. Our world is lessened by his passing.

Jeff Grinspoon '90, '95

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Co-Founders Rudy Lamone with Don Kuratko (Indiana University) at the official formation of the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC).

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Rudy and I, along with Tom O’Malia (USC) were the co-founders of the National Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (NCEC) which soon became the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC). It was quite a journey and working with Rudy was not only a pleasure but motivational to say the least. He was remarkable in how he cared for everyone that he touched. Rudy now leaves a void that no one can fill in the entrepreneurship domain. He was one of a kind and truly a gift to all of us who knew him. He had a great impact on my life like so many others that he knew. I will miss him greatly! May God find a special place for him in heaven!!
-Donald F. Kuratko (Indiana University)

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Rudy and Don Kuratko at the offcial launch of the GCEC

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Rudy inspired loyalty and affection from students and faculty alike.  In addition to all of his accomplishments in the entrepreneurial realm Rudy was an adept administrator who guided the School from the status of Division under the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSOS) to recognition as the Maryland Business School and finally the Smith School of Business.  There would be no Smith School of Business today without his leadership. Rudy’s smile and laugh will remain forever in my memory.

Bob Krapfel, Ph.D.
Emeritus Associate Professor
Marketing

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This photo is from the time when Rudy was my office mate at the Dingman Center.  I will miss you immensely, Rudy!  

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A legend, visionary, friend, mentor, beautiful person

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A legend, visionary, friend, mentor, beautiful person

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Rudy was one of the rarest people who are admired and respected by everyone.  I am honored and grateful to have known him for 15 years, during which he became my mentor, dear friend, role model.  Rudy had a tremendous influence on the Smith School, UMD, countless students and colleagues, yet always remained humble, kind, empathetic, always knew the right thing to say, and oh his amazing sense of humor! I love you, Rudy, and will miss you tremendously!

Alla Corey McCoy, MBA'13, Dingman Center 2008-2013

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Rudy Inspired, Supported and Cheered for You

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Rudy Inspired, Supported and Cheered for You

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Rudy lovingly inspired and supported the incubation of New Markets Venture Partners at UMD. We are now the leading venture fund in the country focused on addressing the education to employment gap and we have measurably improved economic mobility for over 45M Americans. Rudy’s spirit made the world better forever. RIP my friend. Mark Grovic

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I love everything about Rudy's story and am so thankful for everything he has done for the Smith and Dingman community. He was a true trailblazer, an inspiration, and one of a kind. Rest in peace Rudy and THANK YOU- Abby Malchow '17

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I love everything about Rudy's story and am so thankful for everything he has done for the Smith and Dingman community. He was a true trailblazer, an inspiration, and one of a kind. Rest in peace Rudy and THANK YOU- Abby Malchow '17

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Like many others I was mentored by Rudy and have great admiration for him. A favorite thought about Rudy is a time when he was asked to share the secret to successful entrepreneurship. While many were expecting an academic or technical answer, he responding by saying "have the right spouse." It was such a great reminder of how business is a part of life, and a great example of the type of person he was. Rudy you will be missed.
-Brian Gill, '03

Here is a more extended excerpt of that particular advice from Rudy:

Strong relationships

Entrepreneurs need to be very good at managing their personal relationships. You'll realize right up front that you have to give up a lot to pursue a new venture and your relationships can be impacted. It's very important that your spouse or partner be on board and become intimately involved with your desire and goal to be a successful entrepreneur. It's tough enough being an entrepreneur -- you need a strong personal support system.

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It was in the early days of the business school’s new building being open and Rudy and the new Dean Bill Mayer had just hosted Leo Van Munching for a visit where they gave him a menu of possible gifts and naming opportunities.

Leo, godbless him had told them I’ll take the building.  I was a young president of the school’s alumni association and stopped out one afternoon for a couple of meetings.  With the commitment of Leo being larger than anything previously received Rudy, Bill and the fundraising staff were discussing what to do next — perhaps send an MOU….when Rudy’s assistant handed him a hand addressed envelope.

Rudy opened it up to find a hand written check I believe for $2,500,000 with a short note saying down payment for naming the building.

I’ve never seen a prouder and happier man in my life than Rudy was that day.  What is now the Smith School was truly Rudy’s child — he raised it, he nurtured it, and he loved it in an infectious fashion that cause thousands who passed through its doors to follow his lead and share in his vision and passion.

Safe trip home my friend — you fought the good fight, you finished your work and your life brought great luster to the school you loved so much!

Barry DesRoches’ ‘80

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Rudy was my mentor and friend for almost 20 years.  His impact on my life is indelible and I owe my entire career of 16+ in the venture capital industry to Rudy. When I first met him I was an overzealous sophomore at the Smith school. His positive energy, caring, and interest in my career aspirations were completely unwarranted...I had limited value to add but he believed in me and my potential before anyone else did. He introduced a young kid with no experience to a number of senior VCs he knew and vouched for me. This resulted in an internship that kick-started my career... As I reflect on it, I don't think anyone else would have done what he did. But this was Rudy, he believed in people and their potential and would do everything he could to help them.  From telling me to "close the deal" with my future wife to other personal/professional matters he was always there to give great advice. In his memory please pay it forward! I'll miss Rudy and I'm deeply grateful for the time we had together. - Ish Dugal 05'

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I had the honor to know Rudy though his friendship with my father. Throughout my 4 years at UMD, I visited him in his office in the Tydings Hall the main building for business classes before the business school moved to the Smith Building. I remember my freshmen year seeing him on campus one day and hollering out "hey Rudy" with a wave to say hello. I mentioned this to my dad who was quick to correct my casual 1st name was not respectful and was told I should always refer to him as Dean Lamone. We last spoke at my dad's memorial service and I shared that story with him. He laughed and said all the students call him Rudy, of course. He was a class act and I am grateful for his help in my business career. RIP Rudy. Karl Goldstein 87'

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I have never seen or known him personally, but from hearing about him, he became an inspiration to do what your heart desires! We will always stay grateful to him for opening an entrepreneurship platform for all the Smith Terps and leading the pathway while he was on campus. He will forever be remembered!

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He was so kind when we met. I'll always remember his wit and smile.

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Rudy Lamone was a true leader, wonderful colleague, superb mentor, and fantastic Dean! He was truly an inspiration to all of us who had the pleasure of knowing him. Indeed, Rudy was one of those unique people who had a positive impact on the lives of everyone who knew him. I will sorely miss our luncheons at his favorite Italian restaurant, our hallway conversations, and his warm and cheerful friendship!
Sincerely, Larry Gordon

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Elana Fine, me, and Rudy at the 2011 GCEC Conference in Los Angeles, CA. 

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I had the pleasure of getting to know Rudy closely during my time as an Assistant Director at the Dingman Center from 2010-2012. I can still hear him shuffling into the office, holding the day's newspaper and a coffee, always with a warm hello and wave. He could dish out the jokes and jabs as well as he could them! I felt like an honorary granddaughter during our time working together and he'll be missed!  -Jennifer Hankin '06

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What I remember most about Rudy was his enthusiastic support of students, their creative ideas and their entrepreneurial goals. If you had a business idea as a UMD student, Rudy wanted to hear about your plan, help you refine it, connect you to the right people, and let you personally know that you were capable of making it happen. Always a champion in every sense of the word. Eternal thanks, Dean Lamone. ~ Reneida Leon, MBA '11.

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I was one of the many “kids” who Rudy somehow made time for as he mentored so many.  I am forever grateful for our lunches at Sergio’s.  As we would fold in stories of our Italian entrepreneur family heritages he always had sound advise on new startup ideas or best practices.  He was truly one of a kind. Thank you, Rudy, for all that you did for me and for all those students and entrepreneurs.  RIP. Michelle Miller ‘00

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Rudy was a gentle and effective leader who leveraged the power of his example to inspire others to pursue their dreams. He embodied our better angels and served as a power grid of optimism. His enthusiasm to create a positive impact to those around him was contagious. I’m personally grateful for his indefatigable willingness to share his insights, to listen attentively and to offer support. His charm and charisma, empathy and humility, devotion to the mission and vibrant vision shaped us all. I’m honored to have known him and privileged to have him as a mentor and friend. - Gerald Suarez

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I loved Rudy. He was one of those people that made you feel really good about yourself. He and I were Batman and Robin at the entrepreneurship conferences in the early 2000s when I was Deputy Director of the Dingman Center. He truly was the godfather of entrepreneurship education. I’m so sad I didn’t get to say a proper goodbye. Mark Grovic

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During the year or so I spent at the Dingman Center, Rudy was a constant source of encouragement and support. Though I knew him only briefly, he left a lasting positive impact on my time at business school and later in my career. Thank you Rudy! - Kaushik Mukerjee

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Rudy hired me as a faculty member, fresh out of my Ph.D. program. I had no experience of a B School since I came from an Engineering program.  He later recalled that during my interview meeting with him, he could sense that I would be able to adjust to life in a B School. Long after his retirement, he took a personal pleasure in all of the successes of his protegees. Thank you Rudy and I will miss seeing you around the building.
Louiqa Raschid (a hire from 1987).

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You had a legendary effect on the school, and you will be missed. My first office at Smith was down the hall from yours, and you were always a genial presence with plenty of visitors. I was amazed at your humility and sense of humor as I learned more about who you were. My impression of a "dean" was someone a little scary, not someone who was funny and kind.

I was so excited when the Hall of Fame committee selected you as one of our inaugural class, and I was looking forward to seeing you at the celebration. I'm glad that at least you were notified of the honor before you had to leave us.

You will be so missed, and my condolences to your family. We're grateful for the time we had with you, Dean Lamone!

Sincerely,
Nicole Coomber

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Rudy was one of my strongest supporters! He involved me in a number of activities at the Dingman Center, including involvement with the board and as a featured speaker at the Center.   He would invite me to lunch just to catch up. Any chance he got he offered leads for my business, Centennial One. Inc.  My invitation to join the Board of Citizens Bank of Maryland was because of Rudy's push to make it happen. After I moved to Richmond, VA, I did mot stay in touch as often as I should.  However, I will always remember him with great admiration.

Lillian Lincoln Lambert

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After hearing the unfortunate news of Rudy's passing today I had a meeting across campus in the Discover District. Mentioning his passing I was informed of a "Rudy Room" and how his presence will be missed. Rudy your impact was not just felt in Smith but across the entire campus as well. You will be missed but your impact will always be with us. - Nima Farshchi '14, '20

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Here's something you might not know about Rudy, from a 2010 issue of Smith Business magazine: 

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Here's something you might not know about Rudy, from a 2010 issue of Smith Business magazine: 

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Rudy Lamone’s family immigrated to the U.S. from the  province of Abruzzi, Italy, in the early 1900’s. They were a family with a knack for business and a bent toward
new ventures. His aunt and cousin ran corner grocery stores, his brother ran restaurants, and his cousin opened up a
women’s sportswear business. That’s where Rudy cut his teeth. Their combination of hard work and moxie paid for all the children in Rudy’s extended family to go to college. “That
was the fire that lit my interest in entrepreneurship,” he says.

But when Rudy was teenager, anything business-related took a back seat to anything music-related. Rudy was a gifted saxophone player determined to make music his career. He lied about his age to play in Pittsburgh clubs, burning the end of a cork to create fake beard stubble on his face, and made sure to always enter clubs through the poorly-lit back entrances. He spent the next four years on tour with a succession of big bands and eventually the Rudy Lamone Band, which provided backup for major acts on tour. He landed in North Carolina, spent three years in the Army at Fort Bragg (and in the 440th Army Band), and then finally settled down to an undergradu ate education at the ripe old age of 26.

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Japanese entrepreneur Soji Kanazawa came to visit the

center in 1990 and was so impressed that he donated

$300,000 to fund student exchange trips to Japan and

around the world. He then founded an entrepreneurship

school in Japan.

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Dingman Center staff, circa 1999. Bob Baum, PhD ’94, front

left, was the first full-time faculty member at the Smith

School focused solely on entrepreneurship. A serial entrepreneur with six companies under his belt, Baum lived on his boat in Annapolis while pursuing his PhD. “It was better than Maryland student housing,” Baum remembers.

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Named for the fearless founder of the Dingman Center, the Rudy Awards were created to honor those members of our community who embody the entrepreneurial and generous spirit that make this center possible.

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Remembering the first-ever Rudy Awards in 2012.

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Rudy Lamone, dean of the Smith School from 1973 to 1992.