Steve Smith to Speak at Presbyterian College’s Business Ethics Lecture
Clinton, SC – Excitement is building as Presbyterian College prepares to welcome back one of its esteemed alumni, Steve Smith, for the 2024-25 Robert M. Vance Lecture on Business Ethics. The event is set to take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, September 10, in Edmunds Hall. Smith, who has worn many hats – from student athlete to business leader – is sure to provide an inspiring and insightful evening for the college community.
A Journey from Blue Hose to Business Leader
Steve Smith graduated from Presbyterian College in 1984 with a degree in business administration. During his time at the college, he was not just a dedicated student but also a standout athlete. As a four-year letterman and three-year captain of the Blue Hose Men’s Basketball team, Smith showcased his leadership abilities both on the court and off. Today, he serves as the president of Swagelok North Carolina/East Tennessee, a company based in Matthews, N.C., that specializes in manufacturing fluid system components such as hoses, tubes, fittings, and valves.
Smith’s commitment to his alma mater runs deep. In addition to being a member of the PC Board of Trustees, he has contributed his time and resources to several organizations within the college. Along with his wife, Gayla, he has been a generous philanthropist, contributing to various initiatives, including the Championship Spirit campaign, which honored former head basketball coach Gregg Nibert by dedicating the gymnasium floor at the Templeton Physical Education Center.
A Commitment to Community
The Smiths currently reside in Waxhaw, N.C., where they actively participate in their community through various charitable efforts and are members of Weddington United Methodist Church. They are the proud parents of two children, Ashton, a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Marshall, who graduated from PC in 2013 and is married to fellow alumna Lauren Lefeber Smith.
Looking Ahead to the Lecture
Dr. Anita Gustafson, president of PC, praised Smith, saying, “Steve Smith is a True Blue role model of devotion and loyalty to his alma mater and a consummate professional. In every role he plays – as an alumnus, trustee, family man, and business leader – Steve Smith exemplifies PC’s values of service, honor, and trust.” She added that she looks forward to hearing his insights during this year’s lecture.
The Robert M. Vance Lecture Series is generously funded by the Bailey Foundation in memory of the late Robert M. Vance, a respected businessman and PC trustee who valued ethics, honesty, and integrity. This series provides a unique platform for high-profile business leaders to engage with students, offering wisdom on how to run a successful organization while maintaining a strong ethical foundation.
Past Speakers and the Importance of Ethics in Business
The series has previously hosted a variety of notable speakers from the business world, including Jim Samples, president of HGTV, and Bob McCoy, former vice president and CFO of Wachovia. These lectures have sparked important conversations about blending business success with a commitment to ethics—a critical topic in today’s business landscape.
As the community prepares to gather for the lecture, anticipation builds around the valuable lessons and insightful stories Smith is expected to share. It promises to be an enlightening evening filled with discussions that will resonate with both current students and alumni alike.
Mark your calendars for September 10th, and don’t miss the chance to hear from a true Blue Hose and successful business leader!
