As a child in Louisville, he would pass “that place up on the hill” near Saint Agnes Church with his grandparents. Years later, while living in Illinois, a priest mentioned Bellarmine to him by name. Even then, he realized its reputation was beyond Louisville.
Bruce completed his MBA at Bellarmine while working full-time in banking and raising two young daughters. Initially, the decision was practical. The degree would help advance his career. What he gained, however, was far more than a credential.
Bellarmine’s MBA program blended academic theory with real-world instruction from active business leaders. That practical foundation sharpened his decision-making skills, which proved invaluable when he left banking to become an entrepreneur.
Following his father’s advice to “do it on your own,” Bruce became one of the first Papa John’s franchisees, later selling back to corporate. He went on to acquire and grow businesses including The Voice-Tribune and Impellizzeri’s Pizza, while expanding his real estate investments. Through successes and setbacks, he credits his Bellarmine education with helping him think strategically and adapt with confidence.
After decades of building businesses, Bruce and Julie—his wife of 45 years—began thinking about the kind of impact they wanted to leave behind.
That reflection led them back to Bellarmine, wanting to make direct impacts on Division I men’s basketball and a Besten family endowed scholarship to the business school.
Their recent commitment supports the University’s 75th Anniversary Campaign, Honoring Our Past, Shaping Our Future, this forward-looking initiative is designed to expand access to education, elevate academic excellence, enhance the student experience, and support Division I athletics. Visit Bellarmine’s official home page to learn more about our 75th Anniversary Campaign.
Bruce understands how athletic success elevates an institution—increasing visibility, strengthening pride, and drawing students to campus. The Bestens’ vision extends beyond the court.
By establishing an endowed scholarship, they are creating sustainable support for students year after year. Unlike a one-time contribution, the principle of an endowed scholarship is invested and preserved, with a portion of its earnings awarded to students each year. That means their support continues for a long time in the future. Click here to learn how you can build your legacy at Bellarmine.
“It creates enough to provide at least one scholarship each year,” Bruce explains.
For the Bestens’, giving is not about a moment. It’s about momentum. It’s about ensuring that future students have the same opportunity to grow, lead, and build meaningful lives.
They encourage fellow alumni to think about giving in practical, lasting terms.
“If you’re in a position to help, your support could change a student’s life,” they said. “Bellarmine did something for you. Giving back helps the next generation do something meaningful, too.”
What began as childhood curiosity about a campus on a hill has become a lasting investment in shaping its future—one that will open doors for students for generations to come.