On Friday, September 20, Cumberland University President Dr. Paul C. Stumb traveled to Mobile, Alabama to visit CU alumnus Joe Byrum and present him with his Distinguished Alumni Award. 

The Distinguished Alumni Award is the highest honor bestowed by the Cumberland University Alumni Association, recognizing alumni whose personal lives, professional achievements, and community service embody the values of their alma mater.

This distinction honors both longevity and consistency of accomplishment over one’s professional lifetime. 

Joe Byrum began his journey at CU in 1966, where he took a job in the dining hall to help offset his tuition costs. This early experience in Cumberland’s dining services laid the groundwork for a remarkable career in the food and healthcare industries.  

In his postgraduate years, Byrum emerged as a trailblazer in his field. He served as President and CEO of Morrison Management Services, a contract food service company that he led to over $1 billion in annual revenue. 

With his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic vision, Byrum created Morrison Healthcare, a separate public company, and made a major investment in Crothall Services Group, a hospital environmental services company. Under his leadership, the company grew exponentially and Byrum ultimately sold the company for nearly $400 million.

Joe Byrum’s path from dedicated CU student to a pioneering business leader exemplifies Cumberland’s mission of preparing learners to serve and excel. With this award, the Alumni Association celebrates Byrum’s legacy that has reinforced the University’s commitment to creating impactful leaders.  

For more information about Cumberland’s Alumni Association and to explore ways to stay connected with fellow graduates, visit: https://www.cumberland.edu/alumni/.