Sam’s Club COO speaks with Business students at Georgia Southwestern

AMERICUS, GA (October 25, 2019) — Business students at Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW) recently had the unique opportunity to speak with an executive from one of the country’s largest companies on Wednesday, October 23. Dacona Smith, Chief Operations Officer (COO) for Sam’s Club, met with one of GSW’s College of Business and Computing classes to share his story of success.

Smith, who started as an hourly Wal-Mart associate, discussed a number of business tips with the Principles of Management class. Smith also answered a number of questions from students, with topics ranging from his career and balancing college course with work to building trust as a company and presenting to company executives.

"Getting the opportunity to gain insight and wisdom about the world of business from someone like Dacona Smith, who worked his way to the top, was an experience that resonated with me on so many levels,” said sophomore pre-management major Jordan Busby. “The words he shared during his visit – most importantly his philosophy, 'You can leave, but never quit' – will be a memory to take with me as I pursue a career that I can excel in."

Smith and GSW Assistant Professor of Human Resources Jim Aller, Ph.D., first met as colleagues at Wal-Mart. According to Aller, Smith’s story of triumph, determination and success is a great example for aspiring businesspeople that resonates across generations.

“I asked him to come to campus because 30 years ago, his journey started in a similar manner to that of many of our students,” said Aller. “It is my hope they will remember their brief time with Dacona. That day a COO took time out of his busy schedule just to provide words of wisdom and encouragement to students at GSW."

“A big thanks to everyone at Georgia Southwestern State University for having me,” said Smith. “You clearly have some bright students – future business professionals -- and it was an honor to spend some time with them.”