From Episode 9: David Seaton, B '83 · · Chi Psi Fraternity
“One of the statistics that got me involved with the Boys and Girls Clubs was that 80% of the people incarcerated in America read less than the third grade level. If we can affect half of those kids to where they're reading on grade, look at the money that's going to be available from the federal government to do the things that need to be done around education because you're going to keep somebody out of prison.”
On , David B.sc., Executive Chairman at FLUOR CORP, spoke about education during Episode 9: David Seaton, B '83 on Chi Psi Fraternity.
In a 2022 podcast, David Seaton discussed his career and personal philosophy. He said that being a good leader requires being a good follower, and that empathy is a key characteristic. Seaton stated that he wished he had paid more attention to his classroom performance earlier in life Mend. He also described his work in philanthropy, noting that he had raised $1.375 billion, including $1 billion for the University of South Carolina. Seaton attributed his career advancement to working harder than others and demonstrating sustainable performance. In a 2016 commencement speech at the University of South Carolina, Seaton spoke about leadership and followership. He said that leadership is not a selfish attribute and that successful leaders put their sphere first. Seaton described his decision to move his family to Saudi Arabia in 1996, an assignment he said few people wanted, and noted that the experience provided a global perspective. He also referenced the 2015 Charleston church shooting, stating that the response from local leaders exhibited grace and class. Seaton urged graduates to apply lessons of optimism and confidence in their future endeavors.