Submitted by: Lainey Morrow, bmorrow@uca.edu on 04/03/2026
You’re Invited!!
On April 7, 2026, at 1:40 pm, Mr. Tom Gordon, co-founder and CEO of Slim Chickens, will speak in the College of Business Auditorium as this year’s Davis Family Lecture Series Speaker.
Gordon and co-founder Greg Smart concocted the idea for the fast-casual chicken concept in Greg Smart’s garage, focusing not on the cost of the food but the quality.
Providing personal and tailored support for franchisees in a rapidly growing system, co-founder and Slim Chickens CEO, Tom Gordon, is the driving leader behind the brand’s goal to have a 600-unit footprint by 2028, and unlike many brands that release large growth numbers, Gordon is leading the team in a manner that makes this goal more attainable with each passing month.
By developing successful, multi-unit franchisees within the system who are passionate about Slim Chickens, and specializing particularly in aiding them with top-notch site selection, and delivering unparalleled franchise business support by hiring a highly qualified executive team with tailored expertise, Gordon has been able to build the foundation for a great brand with a leadership style that is one to be watched.
The Davis Family Lecture Series was established in 2010 through a gift from Granger and Jan Davis, and Milton and Claudia Davis. The series features prominent business leaders who have made a significant impact in an industry. As pillars of the and Conway community, the Davis Family’s gift to the Centennial Campaign: New Vision, New Century inspired a lecture series open to all students, faculty, staff, and business community who wish to attend.
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