UMO Tillman Executive Roundtable to Feature Prominent Business Leaders
April 9, 2025
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE, N.C. — The University of Mount Olive’s Tillman School of Business will host its Tillman Executive Roundtable tomorrow, Thursday, April 10 at 9:30 AM in Rodgers Chapel, featuring a distinguished panel of accomplished executives whose leadership has shaped some of the region’s most recognizable companies.
This year’s panel includes:
- William H. “Bill” Bryan, Executive Chairman and former President and CEO of Mount Olive Pickle Company. A Mount Olive native, Bryan joined the company in 1985 and led it for 25 years. During his tenure, the company became the leading brand in the pickle industry. Known for emphasizing innovation and community support, Bryan continues to guide the company’s strategic direction.
- Drew M. Covert, Chairman and CEO of Southern Bank and Trust Company. With over three decades in banking, Covert has helped lead Southern Bank through significant growth and modernization. His strategic approach centers on customer service, employee development, and ethical business practices while maintaining strong ties to the local community.
- Robert L. “Bob” Tillman, former President, CEO, and Chairman of Lowe’s Companies, Inc. Tillman began his career with Lowe’s as an entry-level employee and steadily rose through the ranks. As CEO and chairman, he played a significant role in expanding the company’s national footprint and solidifying its position as a leader in the home improvement industry.
The Tillman Executive Roundtable offers students, faculty, and community members the opportunity to gain insight from executives with decades of experience in business leadership, innovation, and service.
“This event is an exceptional opportunity for our students to learn from industry leaders who have not only achieved professional success but have also made lasting impacts in their communities,” said Dr. Kathy T. Best, Dean of the Tillman School of Business. “It is part of our mission to connect classroom learning with real-world application.”
The event is free and open to the public.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
