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Distinguished Alumni Spotlight - James William Ott, 2017 Distinguished Alumnus 

Dr. James William “Jim” Ott was recognized as the 2017 COSAM Distinguished Alumnus. Ott received a bachelor’s degree from Auburn in mathematics in 1965 and a doctorate in mathematics in 1969. A second-generation Auburn alumnus, Ott’s father received a degree from Auburn in 1939.

Ott’s career began with Triangle Universities Computation Center, where he developed software for educational computers shared by Duke University, the University of North Carolina, and North Carolina State University. At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Ott was an adjunct professor in the Department of Computer Science. In 1982, Ott founded Triangle Systems, developing software for IBM mainframe computer systems. He continues to oversee the company.

Ott grew up in the Atlanta area and attended his first Auburn football game as a young child. He has been an avid football fan ever since.

Ott is a lifelong supporter of Auburn and COSAM. He was on the Advisory Council for Arts and Sciences until COSAM’s founding, where he has served on the Dean’s Leadership Council since 1986. He is a member of the Foy and 1856 societies at Auburn.

In his spare time, Ott travels internationally with his wife, Sally, and spends time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoys anything related to cars, mountain hiking in the summer, and Everglades kayaking in the winter. The Otts live in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

Recipients of the Distinguished COSAM Alumnus Award are recognized for achieving significant status in their field, whether business, academic, military, or government. Awardees also have demonstrated a history of commitment to Auburn and COSAM.

Ott was presented with the award at a dinner held in his honor. Visit the COSAM Distinguished Alumnus Award web page for more information.

Last Updated: 10/12/2018