Dollywood president Eugene Naughton ’89 inspires employees at academic year kickoff

On Aug.16, Radford University had the privilege of welcoming one of its most accomplished alumni, Eugene Naughton, a 1989 graduate and the current president of The Dollywood Co., to kick off the 2024-2025 academic year for university employees. 

Held in a packed Kyle Hall 340, Naughton’s keynote address reached nearly half of the university's employees, who attended either in person or virtually.

Radford University President Bret Danilowicz opened the event by expressing his gratitude for the impressive turnout, noting that it was the largest gathering of employees he had seen since his tenure began. He praised the staff for their dedication, which he credited for the university's recent record growth and success. Danilowicz emphasized that the employees are the "lifeblood" of Radford University, playing a crucial role in its mission to serve students and the community. 

Naughton’s address centered on the importance of dedication to one's profession and the power of building a positive culture, drawing parallels between Dollywood’s values and those of Radford University. He shared personal anecdotes from his journey, starting with his days as a student at Radford, where he demonstrated a commitment to active learning and doing by juggling his studies with a job at Kings Dominion. Naughton's rise through the ranks at various theme parks, culminating in his leadership at Dollywood, offered valuable insights into creating an environment where both employees and guests feel at home. 

In addition to the keynote, the university launched the inaugural "We are Radford" Recognition Program during the event. This initiative will honor one employee each month who embodies Radford's core values, with winners receiving a branded fleece blanket and special recognition across the university. The program reflects the university’s commitment to celebrating and valuing its employees, reinforcing the message that they are the heart of the Radford experience. 

The event set a positive tone for the upcoming academic year, leaving employees energized and motivated to continue making Radford University a distinctive and welcoming place.