About James W. McGlothlin '62, J.D. '64, LL.D. '00
James W. McGlothlin is the founder and current CEO and Chairman of the United Company, headquartered in Bristol, Virginia.
In 1970, McGlothlin acquired and became President of United Coal Company, which eventually evolved into what is now the The United Company. He sold the company in 1997 and repurchased it in 2004.
For thirty-nine years Mr. McGlothlin was the Chairman, President and CEO. Under his leadership, the company built significant oil-and-gas holdings in Texas and Canada, and coal interests in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio. Its business investments include pharmaceutical, Internet-based campus bookstores, and mortgage services.
The United Company has a long, proud history of success while taking a different approach to the coal industry.
McGlothlin is also known for the "McGlothlin Energy Policy," which he presented at the Virginia Coal Conference 2006. The pioneering policy laid out a framework designed to enhance national economic independence by addressing energy consumption, increased mileage standards for vehicles, and innovations in nuclear power.
McGlothlin, W&M '62, J.D. '64, practiced law in the firm of Street, Street and McGlothlin in Grundy, Virginia, for eight years. He has been an active member of the William & Mary community meeting with faculty, staff and students, speaking on a variety of subjects, including employee engagement, business plans, operations and entrepreneurship. He has participated in the executive-in-residence at the Mason School of Business.
He was appointed to the College of William & Mary Board of Visitors by Virginia Governor Chuck Robb and served from 1984 to 1993. In 2000, the College honored McGlothlin with a Doctor of Laws.
McGlothlin serves on numerous public corporate boards, including the CSX Corporation, Star Oil & Gas Ltd., Dominion Bankshares, and Bassett Furniture. He is a trustee of several organizations, including Mountain Mission School, First Tee, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
He and his wife, Fran, are active philanthropists in education and arts-related causes. They currently reside in Austin, Texas.