Widely considered the most decorated—and creative—promoter in the history of NASCAR auto racing, H.A. “Humpy” Wheeler has amassed an unparalleled list of career accomplishments. He’s reached legendary status for, among other achievements, bringing night racing to Charlotte Motor Speedway while more than doubling CMS’ seating capacity; taking the company he co-founded, Speedway Motorsports, public as the first racing firm to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange; and serving as director of racing at Firestone Rubber & Tire Co. at a pivotal point in the company’s history.

Perhaps lesser-known—but no less significant—among his contributions to the sport: In 2003, Wheeler launched the acclaimed Motorsports Management program...