Oglethorpe University has announced that Chris Womack, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Southern Company, will deliver the keynote address at the university’s 2026 commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, at 9 a.m. on the Academic Quad.
Womack leads one of the nation’s largest energy providers, serving nine million customers nationwide. Over more than 35 years, he has held senior leadership roles across Southern Company and its subsidiaries, including chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. His earlier roles included executive vice president and president of external affairs, where he led public policy strategy for the company.
President Kathryn McClymond said the university is honored to welcome a leader whose work reaches millions across the country. “Chris Womack exemplifies principled leadership during times of change. His insights on innovation, service and responsibility will resonate with our graduates as they step into a world that needs their imagination and integrity,” McClymond said.
A native of Greenville, Alabama, Womack joined Southern Company in 1988 after beginning his career on Capitol Hill with the U.S. House of Representatives. His experience spans energy generation, public policy, leadership development and community engagement.
As Southern Company’s chief executive, Womack oversees a broad energy portfolio that includes electric utilities in three states, natural gas distribution in four, wholesale energy and emerging technology initiatives. He has played a key role in large‑scale infrastructure projects and next‑generation energy systems.
Beyond his industry leadership, Womack serves on boards including the Metro Atlanta Chamber, the Electric Power Research Institute, East Lake Foundation and Invesco Ltd., reflecting his longstanding commitment to civic and economic development.
