Harry G. Austin III

Randolph-Macon Academy and the Austin family have a multi-generation connection. My two uncles, Jim and Jack, graduated from R-MA during the peak of World War II. My brother Douglas ‘79 and I both attended four years. Our father Harry Jr. was a trustee of the Board for several years.

Upon graduation from Bucknell University with a business degree, I was commissioned a US Army officer, serving in the reserves for 14 years. I had the privilege to lead and share experiences with some of the finest folks I have known. At the end of 2020, I retired as the President of James Austin Company, our Pittsburgh fourth-generation business that was founded in 1889. My career covered everything from summer work in the factory, to sales after college and then later to managing the operations of the multi-location enterprise. I currently serve as a community bank director. I have been on boards for a retirement/nursing community, university alumni association, local sports associations and a Rotarian. Early on, I attained my private pilot license. I proudly joined R-MA as board trustee in the mid 1990’s and again serve on the board today.

R-MA provided a foundation for each of our family members to be successful. More so for us to find devotion and purpose in work, family, friends, and community. R-MA’s student experiences (my Rise) strengthened my confidence and character to meet the challenges I encountered over the many years.