COSAM News Articles 2017 October COSAM names 2017 Distinguished Alumnus, Dr. James William Ott

COSAM names 2017 Distinguished Alumnus, Dr. James William Ott

Published: 10/11/2017

Dr. James William “Jim” Ott was recognized as the 2017 COSAM Distinguished Alumnus. Ott received a bachelor’s degree from Auburn University in mathematics in 1965 and a doctorate in mathematics in 1969. His 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, Inc., developing software for IBM mainframe computer systems. Presently, he continues to oversee the company.

A second-generation Auburn graduate, Ott’s father received a degree from Auburn in 1939.

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

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

Ott was presented with the award at a dinner held in his honor. A photo gallery of the Distinguished Alumnus Award Dinner is available to view on the COSAM Facebook page.

For more information on the COSAM Distinguished Alumnus/a Award, visit the Distinguished Alumnus website.