Entrepreneur, community leader and philanthropist, Arthur Blank addressed nearly 600 business graduates and their family and friends at the college’s May 6th commencement ceremony. 

The co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the National Football League’s Atlanta Falcons argued that capitalism can generate profits and support ideals.  “I believe that profits and values can co-exist,” Blank said.  The Home Depot’s success, he maintains, originates in a commitment to the people and communities the company serves.  “Serve people. The financial success will follow that.”  The Home Depot is the world’s largest home improvement specialty retailer and one of the most recognized and respected brands in the global marketplace. 

Blank stressed the principles of the Auburn Creed – hard work, honesty, integrity, helpfulness, a sound mind and a sound body – and urged that the balance between work life and family life be “fiercely protected.” He concluded with a quotation from Renaissance painter and sculptor, Michelangelo: “The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.”