Bob Teague’s family—son John, wife Andrea and daughter Cherilyn—attended the CSULA 40th Alumni Awards Gala where Teague was honored for his personal and professional accomplishments. Photos courtesy Cherilyn Noack

He likes to say he’s just a dumb boat mechanic, but his most recent honor—the highest tribute California State University, Los Angeles confers upon its alumni—definitely says otherwise. On Friday, Teague Custom Marine owner and founder Bob Teague was recognized at the 40th Alumni Awards Gala honoring and celebrating the notable accomplishments of the distinguished alumni of CSULA.

Established in 1973, the Distinguished Alumni Awards are presented by CSULA in recognition of personal achievement, professional success or humanitarian service. Recipients are those who have attained prominence in their chosen fields and have brought pride to the university. According to the awards program, this year’s honorees highlight the university’s commitment to engagement, service and the public good.

Teague, who served in the United States Army and is a retired L.A. City Fire Department Captain, started Teague Custom Marine in 1972 while working on furthering his education. Although his degree from CSULA’s College of Engineering, Computer Science and Technology in 1981 was directly beneficial to his career at the time with the fire department, he said he’ll never forget his experience at CSULA.

For a few more images from the gala, check out the slideshow above.

“I feel very humbled by this award—the other recipients have incredible stories and awesome accomplishments,” said the world champion offshore racer who was one of 10 alumni honored at the gala. “What I take away from college is the skill of communication. Regardless of the class or field of study, Cal State LA helped build the foundation that I use to run my business.”

In other news, Teague, who writes a column for Speed On The Water digital magazine (download the latest one here), confirmed that the Team AMSOIL Skater Powerboats catamaran will make its season debut at the Super Boat International Marathon Super Boat Grand Prix July 3-5 in Marathon, Fla.

Read more about Teague and the CSULA Awards Gala at the Teague Custom Marine blog.

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