Chuck & Nancy Davidson, Distinguished Alumni 2002
Working together in a personal partnership that began during their UTD student days, they epitomize the generous spirit of SOM alums. Their one-million-dollar, four-year pledge to support the new School of Management building helps ensure SOM's future quality as well as inspires future giving. The UTD School of Management's Distinguished Alumni for 2002 are Chuck, MS 1980, and Nancy Davidson, BS 1980.
The two became a couple at UTD, where Chuck earned his Master of Science degree in Management and Administrative Sciences in 1980, the same year that Nancy Gundy earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business and Public Administration. They married a year later, and Nancy's career relocated as Chuck took a series of positions with subsidiaries of Atlantic Ritchfield Co. His large-scale business vision has led him to the role of chairman, president, and CEO of Noble Affiliates, Inc., one of the nation's leading independent energy companies. Nancy, now a mother, devotes her attention to volunteering, community, and family.
"We believe in supporting many organizations that have important needs," Nancy explains. "Also, we've found that the experiences we have in supporting and being involved in these organizations enrich our lives."
That involvement begins at the civic level and embraces higher education. Chuck says it's all part of giving back from a life that has been richly rewarded. He is active in several industry trade organizations, serves as vice chairman of the Domestic Petroleum Council, serves on the UTD Advisory Board, and is involved with several Houston community organizations, including the Boy Scouts of America and the Society for the Performing Arts. He has provided support for numerous United Way campaigns as well.
"I feel very fortunate to have been able to grow to the position where I can be the leader of a public company, to have the opportunity to build the culture and see the employees become successful in a very challenging industry," he notes. "But there's no question; I could not have moved to the level I'm at without UTD. The things I learned were critical to understanding the process and making better strategic decisions."
Knowing how they have benefited from the skills they acquired at UTD makes the Davidsons eager to share with others. They have hosted alumni receptions in Houston and not only support the School both financially and verbally but also encourage others to do the same. It is something they view as both an opportunity and a responsibility. "The School of Management needs strong alumni support to increase state funding and giving by individuals and corporations," Nancy points out. "Alumni support is expected before others will open up their pocketbook."
-- Management Vol. 6 No. 1 Autumn 2002, by Paula Felps
