Carlisle Foundation bridges gap between clinic and in-home rehab

Dwight Carlisle, seated, is chairman of the board of the Carlisle Enrichment Foundation, whose mission is to extend rehabilitation, fitness and exercise programs for people recovering in their homes from stroke, Parkinson’s or other medical conditions. He is a former CEO of Russell Corporation, and a former member of the Auburn University Board of Trustees. Other members of the foundation are, from left, Jessica Hutzul, executive director; Helen Carlisle, treasurer of the board; Ben Buchanan, advisory member; Brenda Mattson, secretary of the board; and Sheila Ferguson, advisory member. (AU Communications / Special to the Outlook)

By GEORGE LITTLETON / AU Communications

Through a life of hard work, integrity, and brilliant corporate leadership, Dwight Carlisle earned the respect of everyone around him. He grew up in Alexander City, and commuted to Auburn to study textile engineering. He worked as a co-op student at Russell Corporation, the textile and clothing giant headquartered in his hometown. Upon graduation in 1958, he was hired full-time at Russell where he rose through the management ranks, learning every job in every plant, until he became the company’s president and CEO. The corporation thrived under his leadership.