Norfolk Southern representatives at Georgia Southern University’s 2024 Parker College of Business Gala

Norfolk Southern was recently honored with the Outstanding Corporate Partner Award by Georgia Southern University (GSU) during the Parker College of Business Gala in Savannah, Georgia. This accolade underscores the exemplary commitment of organizations towards the advancement of GSU's students, faculty, and programs.

Accepting the award on behalf of Norfolk Southern were Patrick Rickard, AVP Human Resources, and Michael Johnson, Market Manager and Parker College Advisory Board Member. Ashley Treadwell, National Account Manager and Parker College of Business Young Alumni Board Member, introduced Rickard and presented the award. “At Norfolk Southern, we firmly believe in the power of education and the transformative impact it has on individuals and communities,” Rickard said. “That's why we are committed to investing in Georgia’s next generation of leaders, by providing not only financial support but also invaluable opportunities for growth and development.”

Rickard (left) and Johnson (right) accept the Outstanding Corporate Partner Award

Norfolk Southern boasts a significant representation of GSU alumni among its most diverse, top talent, ranking among the company's top five alumni groups. Currently, 118 GSU Eagles are employed by Norfolk Southern, with more than 20 Eagles joining the company this past year. These employees have helped fill critical roles both at its Atlanta headquarters and in field operations across its 22-state network.

“From hiring students as interns to recruiting recent graduates as employees, participating in career fairs and offering mentorship and guidance, our collaboration with Georgia Southern extends beyond the confines of a traditional corporate partnership,” Rickard continued. “It is a symbiotic relationship built on shared values and a common goal of fostering excellence in education and our workforce.”

Representatives from various departments of Norfolk Southern including IT, Legal, Network Operations, Human Resources, Engineering, and Industrial Products, attended the gala.