Morgan Keegan founding member joins Hall of Fame

 

Joseph C. Weller (BBA 61) of Memphis is the 2008 inductee into the Patterson School of Accountancy’s Alumni Hall of Fame.

Weller, vice chairman and executive managing director of Morgan Keegan and one of the firm’s founding members in 1969, was honored during the school’s annual spring Honors Banquet.

“It was such a pleasure to induct Joe Weller into our Patterson School of Accountancy Hall of Fame,” said Dean Mark Wilder. “He has had a tremendous career with Morgan Keegan and is so deserving of this honor. Joe has been loyal and generous to the Patterson School and Ole Miss for many years, and we are very grateful for his support.”

A 1961 UM graduate with a bachelor’s in business administration, Weller served as Morgan Keegan’s chief financial officer for 37 years before retiring from the position in 2006.

“It is very special when the school that prepared you for your profession recognizes you for something you did during your career,” Weller said.

A native of Clarksdale, Weller moved to Memphis for his first job, working for fellow accountancy school alumnus Lucian Minor (BS 37) at Minor and Moore CPA Firm.

Looking back on his success, Weller credits the university for preparing him well.

“I think the education experience I had at Ole Miss certainly gave me the foundation I needed for my career,” he said. “The great experiences you receive both in the classroom and on campus will last you a lifetime.”

Recalling many fond memories of his time at UM, Weller complimented the faculty. “Ole Miss has always had the best accounting professors,” he said. “My favorite teacher was Professor Gene Peery. He brought such energy to his classes and took the time to get to know his students.

“In addition to learning the academic part of accounting, learning to communicate and interact with people is so important. Ole Miss certainly provides great opportunities to learn and practice these skills.”

Weller’s strong people skills are evident in his participation in professional circles throughout his career. He served in various industry positions with the National Association of Security Dealers, Securities Industry Association and American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and as president of Financial Executives International. He has also served as a trustee of the UMAA Foundation.

Weller and his wife, Ann, are the parents of three adult children and seven grandchildren.