Eddie Adair

Charles Edward (Eddie) Adair, a 1970 graduate of The Culverhouse School of Accountancy, credits The University for many of his friendships, associations, and life lessons. He believes that hard work and diligence pay off, and found this to be especially true of the challenging accounting curriculum at Alabama. He encourages current students to not shy away from difficult tasks.

Adair’s successful career is a testament to these lessons. Adair began his career after graduation as a staff accountant in Birmingham. In 1973, he became Controller of Durr-Fillauer Medical, Inc.  in Montgomery eventually was named President and Chief Operating Officer. In 1993, Adair became a Partner in Cordova Ventures, a venture capital management company based in Atlanta. Based on past experiences as both an interviewer and a recruiter, Adair attests to the importance of leadership skills and people skills.

He advises students to enjoy the social aspect of college and use it as an opportunity to expand that set of skills. He insists that “being able to relate to and work with all different types of people is very important; it’s not just about academics.”

Mr. Adair is very excited about the recent growth experienced by The University. He commends Dean Barry Mason and Dr. Robert Witt for their excellent leadership, and ability to expand enrollment while simultaneously improving quality. “They have made great short-term and long-term decisions that have put both the college and the university in great positions.” He also credits recent graduates for their success which reflects well upon The University. Mr. Adair feels “very confident” that this success and quality growth will continue.