Baylor grad named Blue Bell president

Ask any Texan who has had to move away what they miss most about the Lone Star State, and near the top of their list will be Blue Bell ice cream. Made at “the little creamery in Brenham,” Blue Bell has been a tradition for generations of Texans since it was founded a century ago. Being “Pro Texana” and enjoying a product with deep Texas roots goes hand in hand — so it’s only fitting that Blue Bell’s new president is a Baylor graduate.

Ricky Dickson, BBA ’80, was named president of Blue Bell Creameries last month, taking the helm of the company he’s served in various roles nearly all of his professional career. He’s been with the company for 36 years, most recently as vice president of sales and marketing. Dickson follows retiring president Paul Kruse — who also happens to be a Baylor graduate (JD ’80).

For Blue Bell, Dickson’s appointment is a significant milestone. Though not family-owned, a member of the Kruse family has run Blue Bell since 1919 — nearly 90 of the company’s 100 years. To put that in perspective, Dickson is the first non-Kruse to lead Blue Bell since Samuel Palmer Brooks was president of Baylor.

So, the next time you hear one of Blue Bell’s sentimental ads on the radio or dig into a half-gallon of your favorite flavor, know that one of our own is leading Blue Bell into their next century of churning out an iconic Texas taste.

Sic ’em, Ricky Dickson!