George Haywood

George Haywood's life, marked by exceptional achievements and dedication to philanthropy, began in Washington, DC. Born on September 30, 1952, to parents who were both dedicated public school teachers, he was raised in an environment that fostered a deep appreciation for education and community service. His academic journey started at Brightwood Elementary School. It continued at Saint Albans School, where he excelled in academics and sports, notably serving as soccer team co-captain and academic quiz team captain. These formative experiences led to his early admission to Harvard College at 16, where he majored in biology, demonstrating his intellectual prowess.

Following his time at Harvard, his career trajectory took a diverse path. Initially exploring roles as a flight attendant and a professional blackjack player, he soon pivoted toward law and finance. A brief period at Harvard Law School was a precursor to his illustrious career in finance, where he joined Lehman Brothers in 1982. There, he broke new ground as the first black managing director and head of the corporate bond trading department. His finance career then branched into hedge fund management and private investing.

His contributions extended beyond finance into the biotechnology sector, notably through strategic investments in companies like XM Satellite Radio, Martek Biosciences, and AVI BioPharma. His involvement in Martek revolutionized infant nutrition by incorporating DHA into infant formulas.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, his commitment to philanthropy is profound. He has strongly advocated education, supporting various educational initiatives and scholarships. His philanthropy also extends to cultural and social welfare organizations, underscoring his dedication to societal betterment.

Outside his professional and philanthropic commitments, he is a master track and field athlete, holding several world records. His personal life, marked by a long-standing marriage and fatherhood, reflects his values of dedication and integrity. George Haywood's life is a testament to how professional success, philanthropic commitment, and personal integrity can synergistically create a lasting impact.