Buell Duncan Jr., a longtime figure in Orlando’s banking sector, continues to influence the region through an endowed scholarship he created for graduate students at the University of Central Florida (UCF) College of Business. The Buell G. Duncan Jr. Graduate Business Administration Scholarship Fund was established in 1989 as a planned gift, supporting students who may otherwise struggle to afford higher education.
Duncan’s career spanned more than four decades, beginning as a bank teller at First National Bank of Orlando and culminating in his role as president, chairman, and CEO of SunTrust Banks of Florida before his retirement in 1993. Beyond banking, Duncan held leadership roles in organizations such as the Greater Orlando Chamber of Commerce, the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Junior Achievement, the Florida Council of 100, and the Federal Reserve Bank of Florida. He also served on the UCF Foundation Board of Directors.
Among those who have benefited from Duncan’s legacy is Jennifer Lemineur ’22 ’25MS. After personal losses during the pandemic and academic challenges early in her time at UCF, Lemineur rebuilt her academic standing and went on to become an audit associate at Deloitte. She credits the scholarship with enabling her to focus on her goals.
“Mr. Duncan’s scholarship made a profound difference in my life,” Lemineur says. “It not only eased the financial burden of graduate school but also showed me the lasting impact that generosity can have. His support allowed me to focus on achieving my goals and inspired me to one day give back in the same way.”
Duncan did not meet many recipients like Lemineur directly; however, his philanthropic efforts continue to provide educational opportunities for future generations at UCF.
For information about making a planned gift to UCF or joining other supporters using FreeWill estate-planning resources, visit planned.giving.ucf.edu.
