Terry College Institute for Leadership Advancement Named for Chick-fil-A Founder
The University of Georgia – Terry College of Business will house the Institute for Leadership Advancement in the new S. Truett Cathy Leadership Suite, thanks to a $1.2 million pledge from Chick-fil-A employees, operators and vendors.
The donation will help to fund the endowment of the Institute for Leadership Advancement, part of the second phase of Terry College’s Business Learning Community. The goal of the institute, which will open in 2017, is to promote leadership in students through the development of communication, innovation, teamwork and adaptability. Undergraduate UGA students will have the opportunity to earn an interdisciplinary certificate in leadership through the institute.
The recent $1.2 million donation was raised in memory of Georgia businessman and founder of Chick-fil-A, S. Truett Cathy. The pledges, which were raised through a grassroots campaign within Chick-fil-A, ultimately exceeded the $1 million goal. All excess funds will go towards an endowment, which will be named for Cathy and his wife and used to support a student scholar within the institute.
Employees, operators and vendors from Chick-fil-A came together with students from the institute to surprise Cathy’s family with the dedication at a Chick-fil-A officer’s meeting in early February.
Dan T. Cathy, current CEO of Chick-Fil-A and son of S. Truett Cathy, commented on his father’s dedication towards helping others. “Dad committed so much of his time and treasure to help young people realize their full potential,” he said. “My family and I are humbled and grateful…to honor the Cathy legacy in such a meaningful way.”
“S. Truett Cathy’s focus on responsibility, stewardship, excellence, integrity and purpose align well with the mission of the Institute for Leadership Advancement,” commented Benjamin C. Ayers, Terry College Dean. “The Truett Cathy Leadership Suite will be an enduring tribute to the ideals of servant leadership.”
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Alanna Shaffer
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