A Legacy of Generosity

Orlan '66 and Jacquelyn Ranstrom

Raised on a farm in Northern Minnesota, Orlan Ranstrom's journey from rural beginnings to pioneering technology and generous philanthropy is nothing short of remarkable.

After graduating from Alvarado High School, Orlan enlisted in the Air Force. Afterward, a serendipitous moment in Fargo changed Orlan's life. While flipping through a VA pamphlet, he discovered Dunwoody Industrial Institute. Inspired by a conversation with his cousin Reynold Wicklund '42 and the stories of Ken Bergstrom '49, Orlan enrolled in Dunwoody's Electronics program, graduating in 1966. This decision would set the stage for an extraordinary career and a lifelong commitment to giving back.

Orlan's passion for technology led him to NW Bell Telephone and eventually to Ampex Corp. in California. At Ampex, Orlan was at the forefront of technological innovation, working on the first color TV camera and studio video recorder for ABC TV. These groundbreaking devices were pivotal in broadcasting the 1968 Winter Olympics. Orlan's ambitions didn't stop there, many years later, he transitioned to a new career as a general contractor.

Orlan and his wife, Jacquelyn, have always been deeply involved in their community, particularly in veteran and local organizations. Their commitment to service extends to their family, where they cherish watching their children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren grow and succeed.

Driven by a profound sense of gratitude and a desire to give back, Orlan set up a scholarship at his high school to encourage students from Greater Minnesota to enroll at Dunwoody. His passion for education and opportunity is unwavering.

"I would like to give back and provide an opportunity for someone to improve their life the way Dunwoody helped improve mine," Orlan said.

Choosing to make Dunwoody a beneficiary of his life insurance policy was a natural extension of this generosity. "Making Dunwoody a beneficiary of a life insurance policy was a simple way for us to give back and make a difference. The reason for purchasing the policy was no longer necessary for us, so we thought this would be a nice way to support my alma mater," he explained. Orlan and Jacquelyn's thoughtful donation to Dunwoody's endowment ensures that their legacy will continue to benefit students for generations to come.

Orlan's story is one of innovation, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to giving back. His life exemplifies the values of Dunwoody College of Technology, and his legacy will inspire future students to pursue their dreams with the same passion and determination.