Hall Of Fame Inductees

Art Ludwick

 

Art Ludwick is a prominent figure in both the corporate and philanthropic worlds, known for his extensive contributions to the irrigation industry and his unwavering commitment to community development. As the Chairman of the Board at Rain Bird Corporation, Ludwick has maintained a significant presence in the company even after his official retirement in 2005. His tenure at Rain Bird spanned 42 years, during which he played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and success. His last position was as Senior Vice President and CFO, roles in which he oversaw critical aspects of the business, including Rain Bird’s Turf businesses across four western states, the Controls division, distribution, finance, and IT.

 

Ludwick's leadership and strategic vision were instrumental in expanding Rain Bird’s market presence and enhancing its services to various customer segments within the irrigation industry. His deep understanding of the business and commitment to excellence have left a lasting impact on the company.

 

Beyond his professional achievements, Art Ludwick is also one of the most recognized citizens in the San Gabriel Valley. His dedication to philanthropy and volunteerism has advanced opportunities for countless individuals. A member of Cal Poly Pomona’s President’s Council since 1983, Ludwick has been a steadfast supporter of higher education. He is also a member of the Kellogg/Voorhis Society and a sponsor of the Founders’ Celebration. As a charter member of the university’s National Development Council, Ludwick has contributed significantly to the institution's growth and success.

In 1999, Art Ludwick and his wife, Sarah, were honored by Cal Poly Pomona as Distinguished Individual Partners. Their collaboration with the university’s College of Science led to the development of the K-12 BioTrek Rainforest Teaching Curriculum, an educational tool designed for educators, students, and parents. This initiative resulted in the creation of the Rain Bird BioTrek Rainforest Learning Center, the Rain Bird BioTrek Ethnobotany Learning Center, and the Rain Bird BioTrek Aquatic Biology Learning Center. These centers provide hands-on learning experiences that allow students to explore the complexities and diversity of tropical rainforests as well as terrestrial and aquatic habitats.

 

In 1990, Art and Sarah Ludwick founded the Ludwick Family Foundation, a philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting a wide range of groups working to make a positive difference in the world. The foundation’s giving is national and encompasses a variety of causes, from the Humane Society and schools to medical rescue organizations and groups like the American Red Cross and the Girl Scouts. Both Rain Bird and the Ludwick Family Foundation are deeply committed to community involvement.

One of Ludwick’s notable contributions to the community is the Arthur & Sarah Ludwick Emergency Care Pavilion at Foothill Presbyterian Hospital in Glendora. This facility, designed with a philosophy of patient-centered care, features user-friendly décor and directional signage to enhance patient and visitor experiences. It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to improve patient satisfaction and privacy.

 

Art Ludwick, a native of San Luis Obispo, California, holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master’s in civil engineering administration from Stanford University. In recognition of his significant achievements, the California State University Board of Trustees and California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, awarded him the honorary degree of Doctor of Science.