Difference Makers

UM-Dearborn Difference Makers are at the forefront of their fields.
They’re improving the lives of others and making an impact on campus and in our local communities.

Theodore Plafchan
Theodore
Plafchan
COB Alumnus of the Year
Class of
1966
College
College of Business
Area of Study
Business Administration

Difference Makers

UM-Dearborn Difference Makers are at the forefront of their fields. They’re improving the lives of others and making an impact on campus and in our local communities.

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Theodore's Story

Theodore Plafchan (’66 B.B.A.), founder of Eastern Oil Company, is a respected business leader in the automotive and production distribution industry. From automotive and manufacturing to construction and aviation services, Eastern Oil Company is a key distributor for Shell. During his 35 years of leadership, Plafchan’s dedication has led to the company’s growth from three to 50 employees and multi-million dollar ventures. His business success has helped foster a stronger economy of sustained and innovative growth. Plafchan values giving back to his alma mater as he has helped establish the Richard E. Czarnecki Endowed Scholarship. He provides guidance and mentorship to UM-Dearborn students on entrepreneurship. His support has been evident in his dedicated financial contributions to the College of Business annual fund for several years.