David Lawson
2003 Distinguished Alumnus, BS 1970
Family: Leslie (wife), three children, seven grandchildren
Work: President & Chief Executive Officer of Capital One Auto Finance.
FAVORITES
- Hobby: Golf. I really enjoy playing, and it is something Leslie and I can do together at home or on vacation.
- Book: Why Bad Things Happen to Good People, and When All You’ve Ever Wanted Isn’t Enough, both by Harold Kushner. They are so relevant in framing a philosophy around major events in our lives and a perspective around making a difference in the lives of others.
- Reading: I just finished An Unfinished Life about John F. Kennedy, who was elected in my teenage years, so I was very interested in learning more about him. Very educational on the reality of politics.
- Vacation: Summer: Park City, Utah. Winter: Anywhere sunny with golf courses.
LIFE LESSONS
- What was the best thing about growing up in a large family?
There was always someone to interact with. - And the worst?
Getting time to myself was challenging. There were always plenty of critics when I messed up. I was painting our house one summer and knocked over my gallon paint can on our roof leaving a long red streak. My parents were experts at finding projects to keep us busy. - What was the best advice you ever received?
My dad always told us to not make a major purchase until we slept on it and felt just as strongly about it the next morning. I have applied that advice to all types of decisions. Typically, if I am making a questionable decision I don’t sleep well, and it drives me to rethink it. - What advice do you give to your kids?
I encourage them to focus on adding value to whatever they pursue and the rewards will take care of themselves. - Cure for the Blues?
Looking at pictures of our seven grandchildren always brings a smile and pleasant thoughts. We have their pictures everywhere at home and in the office. - What would your acquaintances be surprised to know about you?
Most think I am younger than I really am. I run into this all the time at Capital One because it is a fairly young Fortune 200 company. I am the oldest member of the executive management team, but have many of the same interests as the younger crowd. Most of them are appalled I would discuss retirement. - What am I most proud of?
Our kids and their spouses are absolutely super parents. Also, I am proud that two of our kids are TU alums. - What four people would you invite to dinner, and what would you ask them?
Jesus Christ. What would He have us do today to achieve world peace. My Dad. What were you thinking and how did you get the courage to start a new company with seven kids? My Mom. What is it like in Heaven? Will Rogers. How did you develop such an honest and humorous perspective of the world? How do you view the world situation today?