Jim Squires, '92: Presented Graduation Address at Old Dominion University
The Journey is the Key
Wet weather didn't dampen the spirits of graduates Saturday during the 129th Commencement Exercises at Old Dominion University.
Nearly 1,400 bachelor's, master's and doctoral students received degrees in two ceremonies at the Ted Constant Convocation Center.
During the 9 a.m. ceremony, graduates of the Batten College of Engineering and Technology, Darden College of Education and College of Sciences heard from James Squires, chairman, president and CEO of Norfolk Southern. Additionally, Karl Schoenbach, eminent scholar emeritus and professor emeritus of electrical and computer engineering, was awarded an honorary doctorate of science degree at the ceremony.
Squires joined Norfolk Southern's law department in 1992. He now runs a FORTUNE 500 transportation company whose railroad operates across 19,500 miles in 22 states. During his tenure as CEO, Norfolk Southern has sharpened its focus on customer service and implemented strategies to enhance stewardship of resources and ensure continued long-term growth.
During his 26 years with the company, Squires' roles at Norfolk Southern have included vice president law, senior vice president law, senior vice president financial planning, executive vice president finance and chief financial officer, and executive vice president administration. Squires became president of the company in 2013 and was named chairman and CEO in 2015.
In his opening remarks, President Broderick praised Squires for his business savvy as well as the company's charitable contributions and "long partnership with ODU."
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