Photos and Article By: Benjamin Rickert, Communications Dept.
George H.V. Cecil, former President of The Biltmore Company and grandson of the Biltmore Estate’s founder George Washington Vanderbilt, joined BCS students for an informal discussion of history, family values, and his work with Asheville’s iconic farms and estate.
Students in Assistant Superintendent Joseph Hough’s Student Advisory Council gathered on the morning of Friday, April 26, at the Buncombe County Schools Central Office for the opportunity to meet Mr. Cecil, his son Mr. John “Jack” F.A.V. Cecil, President of Biltmore Farms, and Mr. Bradley G. Galbraith, Biltmore Farms’ Vice President of Community Development.
“Mr. Cecil spoke on family business, community involvement, and cultural development in the area,” explained Mr. Hough. “Most important, he shared with students about the standard family values he was brought up on that are still relevant to a young person’s success today.”
Hough formed the Student Advisory Council to provide additional opportunities and influence for student leaders. The Council provides a platform for students to share their concerns in the district, see the inner workings of their school system, and learn about BCS’ role within the Asheville-Buncombe community. The group also connects students with influential local leaders.
During Friday’s gathering, the 94-year-old Mr. Cecil reminded students that some of the most important keys to success in life and business are within reach of all people.
“Mr. Cecil and his Vanderbilt family ancestors have accomplished so much, but it was a simple message of success that I think they will remember,” Hough said. “He told students that it is important to dress appropriately, always look people in the eye when speaking with them, give your word through a firm hand shake, and that the three most important letters in the alphabet are P, T and Y — as they remind us to always say: Please and Thank You.”
Students also had questions about what life was like growing up on the private estate decades ago. The group shared a hearty laugh when Cecil explained that some of the world's best games of hide-and-seek could be played in the Biltmore home.
Buncombe County Schools is grateful to the Cecil family and Biltmore Farms for providing this memorable learning opportunity to local student leaders.
According to biltmorefarms.com:
“George H. V. Cecil is former President of The Biltmore Company, and following reorganization, was President of Biltmore Dairy Farms, Inc., predecessor to Biltmore Farms, LLC. He is the grandson of George Washington Vanderbilt.
Mr. Cecil was born in Biltmore, North Carolina, educated in Europe, and attended the University of Glasgow. He served in the British Navy from 1942 to 1946 as an officer on “P.T.” Boats in the North Sea and West Africa. He was married to the late Nancy Owen Cecil for 61 years, and they have 6 children and 16 grandchildren.”