Law and Order

Jeff Nadalo '99, B.S. Accounting

By day, he's immersed in legal affairs. Off the clock, he chases bad guys. It's an ideal combination for Jeff Nadalo, the energetic, outgoing, self-described "righteous" General Counsel for Buc-ee's, the Texas-based chain of convenience stores and a volunteer Sergeant in the Harris County Sheriff's Office.

At Buc-ee's, a one-of-a-kind travel destination that he joined in 2012, Jeff manages a talented team of attorneys and professionals. He is proud of having worked diligently to create "an effective compliance program that reflects the high standards for stewardship espoused by the founders." While his busy days are generally spent on intellectual property matters, real estate—the Buc-ee's chain is growing— contractual negotiations, and general legal guidance, he's "not afraid of the courtroom," and takes an active role working with the company's internal and external litigation teams.

Jeff enjoys working alongside a talented and creative group of professionals in helping shape and contribute to the unconventional business model that Buc-ee's has championed since it was founded in 1982. "I thrive on the dynamic culture and fast pace that makes Buc-ee's unique and exciting," he says.

Unconventional? You bet. Unique? Absolutely. For those who haven't road-tripped through East and South Coastal Texas, Buc-ee's' 37 convenience stores are open 24/7, 365 days a year. Each store incorporates a coffee shop, deli, Texas-themed gift items, necessities for hunters and other sportsmen, along with numerous fueling stations and tons of famously clean restrooms. Customers are attracted by large billboards that feature the company mascot, a buck-toothed beaver sporting a baseball cap and proclaim slogans like, "Don't stay thirsty, my friend" or "If it harms beavers, we're against it," many of them contributed by employees —Jeff included—who are encouraged to offer suggestions on everything from menu items toT-shirts.

Although Jeff loves his job, he has long harbored a passion for law enforcement. So much so that he originally planned a career as a special agent with the FBI. While in the midst of applying to the FBI, a colleague shared his experiences working as a reserve deputy for the Harris County Sheriff's Office, which includes the greater Houston area. Enthralled, Jeff withdrew his FBI application and entered the HCSO Academy. For the last eight years, he has indulged his passion for law enforcement by training new recruits and managing "a great group of deputies." He estimates his volunteer hours total about 400 annually. Since earning his badge, Jeff has arrested 160 individuals and personally confronted several dangerous and tense situations.

Originally from Dallas, Jeff says, "I am blessed to have had the opportunity to attend Trinity University." He traces his appreciation for the rule of law to his tenure on the Student Court and credits his decision to attend law school to the "strong mentorship and significant influence of professor John Rice." When he's not maintaining law and order, Jeff enjoys time with his three children and traveling. High on his bucket list are visits to China and Japan.

Should you find yourself at a Buc-ee's and in need of sustenance, check out their #1 branded food item: caramel glazed corn puffs a.k.a Beaver Nuggets. Jeff, however, recommends his personal favorite: the Signature Club.

You can contact Jeff at Jeff@buc-ees.com