Friday, September 01, 2017

David S. Congdon ’78, vice chairman and chief executive officer of Old Dominion Freight Line, will open the 2017-18 Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture Series on Sept. 14. The UNCW alumnus will speak about “The Entrepreneurial Journey of Old Dominion Freight Line,” the family business that his grandparents started in 1934, at 4 p.m. in the Burney Center.

“Old Dominion Freight Line has succeeded for more than 80 years because of the visionary leadership of the Congdon family and the foresight to adapt to changing industry needs,” said Chancellor Jose V. Sartarelli. “David learned his family’s business from the ground up, giving him a thorough understanding of every aspect of the company. We are especially proud to have this distinguished alumnus speak during UNCW’s 70th anniversary celebrations.”

Congdon graduated from UNCW in 1978 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and later attended the NC Truck Driver Training School in Raleigh. Over the past 46 years, his jobs have included dockworker, truck driver, mechanic, industrial engineer and various executive positions. He was president of the transportation and logistics company from 1997-2015, named CEO in 2008 and now also serves as vice chairman of the board.

In 2008, he was one of three UNCW alumni honored with the Cameron School of Business Alumni of the Year Award. He has been recognized in the Triad and by Fortune magazine for his business and community leadership. The Congdon family is involved with several philanthropic ventures, and Congdon serves on a number of community and industry boards.

The Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture Series brings executives, government officials, academic professionals and nationally recognized speakers to UNCW to speak on topics related to the priorities outlined in UNCW’s Strategic Plan. The program provides students with experiences designed to enhance their professional knowledge.

The lectures are open to students, faculty, staff and the public, but registration is requested.

-- Tricia Vance

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