Members of the Albany State University Marketing Club are studying business principles of a successful American CEO. A book discussion for students, faculty and staff examined the values outlined in the autobiography of Chick-fil-A founder S. Truett Cathy. “Eat Mor Chikin: Inspire More People” was written by the successful fast food restaurant owner who believed all franchise owners and employees should spend time with family, friends and worship, if they chose to, on Sundays.

Lawrence Knighton, the Marketing and Sales Director for Chick-fil-A in Albany, Ga., and Leesburg, Ga., facilitated the discussion in Peace Hall. Knighton also serves as senior pastor of St. James Baptist Church located in Baconton, Ga.

“You never know where an unexpected opportunity will take you,” Knighton declared to attendees. “That unexpected opportunity can be a plus or a minus, a positive or a negative. You want to make sure that you take advantage of all of the opportunities that you receive.”

The group discussed topics such as how to create opportunities and prioritize commitments.

“One of the points that struck me about chapter one is that many of the unexpected opportunities are really opportunities to give,” said ASU College of Business assistant professor Maurice Elliard, the Marketing Club’s adviser. 

The uniqueness of the corporation’s brand and its audience niche were among the topics presented during the morning talk. Chick-fil-A is the largest quick-service chicken restaurant chain in the United States, based on domestic annual sales. Headquartered in Atlanta, sales reached $5 billion in 2013.  

For more information, contact the ASU Office of University Communications at (229) 430-4671.