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Thomas L. Millner '76 |
Thomas L. Millner '76, president and CEO of Cabelas, Inc., presented “Curiosity and the Cat: Lessons from the Corporate Jungle" to students, faculty and alumni on Wednesday, October 20, 2010.
Millner, who has had a long and successful career in corporate leadership, told the audience, "You all know the story: Curiosity always gets the cat in trouble. I submit to you that a key component of success in the corporate world and happiness in life in the broader sense comes from insatiable intellectual curiosity."
Millner shared with the audience tips for success. "Many factors contribute to success, not the least of which is luck," he said. "Some of the others include work ethic, respect for individuals, tenacity, brains, fearlessness, passion and a solid ethical compass."
In closing his presentation, Millner addressed R-MC students, advising them to have fun, work hard and never stop learning. "Most importantly, let this great college ignite your flame of curiosity," he said. "I guarantee it will take you as far in your life as you want to go...maybe even beyond your wildest dreams."
Before his appointment to the helm of Cabelas, Millner was the chief executive officer of Remington Arms Company, Inc., a leading manufacturer of recreational firearms and ammunition, from 1999 to 2009, and was a director of Remington from 1994 to 2009. From 2008 to 2009, Millner also served as chief executive officer of Freedom Group, Inc., a holding company that directly or indirectly owns Remington and related companies.
Millner's lecture was part of the 2010-11 Randolph-Macon College Executive Speakers Series.