Photo by Jessica McCorvey

About Mr. Dobbs

Howard Dobbs was born in Atlanta, Georgia in 1906 and would call it home his entire life. After graduating from the Georgia Military Academy (now Woodward Academy), he enrolled at Emory University in 1923. Two years later, he began a long and distinguished career with the Life Insurance Company of Georgia where he worked his way up from the clerical department to become President and CEO in 1950. He held that position for twenty years and in 1970, became Chairman of the Executive Committee until his retirement in 1976. Under Mr. Dobbs' innovative leadership, Life of Georgia prospered.

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About the Foundation

The Foundation was established in 1959 as the Helen and Howard Dobbs, Jr. Foundation and was later renamed the R. Howard Dobbs, Jr. Foundation. For nearly 40 years the Foundation operated as a small philanthropic vehicle for Mr. Dobb's interests. At the turn of the century, encouraged by his nephew and fellow trustee E. Cody Laird, Jr., Mr. Dobbs began to formalize the Foundation's governance and guidelines to prepare the way for a family philanthropy that would extend beyond his lifetime.

Today, the R. Howard Dobbs, Jr. Foundation operates with the mission to improve the quality of life for individuals, families and communities by supporting educational opportunities, improving access to health services, and promoting environmental stewardship. The Foundation is committed to honoring the life and impact of Mr. Dobbs through its work.

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Board of Trustees

Mr. William Clarkson, IV ​
Ms. Barbara T. Cleveland
Ms. Bright Crosswell
Mr. C. Mark Crosswell, Chair
Ms. Ciannat M. Howett
Mr. E. Cody Laird Jr., Chair Emeritus
Mr. H. Dobbs Laird, Treasurer
Ms. Nancy Clair Laird McInaney, Secretary
Mr. Laird M. Williams

Foundation Staff

Our next proposal review is in:
july
Questions or concerns?