Two local McCallie alumni have received recognition for their generosity.
Francis and Gordon Smith ’43 and Ward Petty ’80 were honored for their philanthropic pursuits at the recent Association of Fundraising Professionals’ National Philanthropy Day. The special day of recognition, held around the country every November since 1987, recognizes those who have continually dedicated their efforts and resources to better their communities.
The Smiths, who were given the Outstanding Philanthropists award, have been tireless advocates for the Chattanooga community for decades. Mr. Smith has served as chairman of the McCallie Board of Trustees, and was honored as a Distinguished Alumnus. Mrs. Smith, an alumna of GPS, served on the GPS board for 26 years, and has been honored as a Distinguished Alumna. The Smiths have also served with the Boys and Girls Club, the United Way, Allied Arts, Hospice of Chattanooga, Erlanger Medical Center, T.C. Thompson Children’s Hospital, the YMCA, and many area schools and organizations.
Mr. Petty was honored with the Leadership Fundraiser award. He has served as a member of the McCallie Board of Trustees and the Planned Giving Committee, was president of the Alumni Council, and has twice served as chairman of the Annual Sustaining Fund. He was awarded an Alumni Achievement Award in 2000. Mr. Petty has donated his time and resources to many other organizations, including Siskin Children’s Institute, Memorial HealthCare System Foundation, the Creative Discovery Museum, Bethel Bible Village, the American Red Cross, and the Partnership for Families, Children and Adults. He has also served as President of the Fairyland Club and as a town Councilman for Lookout Mountain, Tn.