As a young boy traveling cross country in a covered wagon, Jasper Ackerman could only dream of what his future would hold. Serving during World War I and II, he worked hard, earning the rank of lieutenant colonel and was well-decorated for his distinguished service.
In 1916, Mr. Ackerman began working as an elevator operator for Exchange National Bank in Colorado Springs and worked his way up to majority owner, chairman of the board, president and chief executive officer before leaving 54 years later. He was a legend in Colorado Springs as a banker and also for his ranching hobby.
But, friends who knew him well also knew about his philanthropic activities. He loved to help youth, supporting the YMCA and Boy Scouts as well as privately funding a college education for numerous children who couldn’t afford it.
In 1970, Mr. Ackerman became one of the first contributors to the Oklahoma City Community Foundation when he established an endowment for the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the first endowment for a charitable organization at the Community Foundation. After his death in 1988 at the age of 91, a gift from his estate further supported the endowment.