The Atlanta Falcons have partnered with Truist for a weekly series designed to help fans get to know the limited partners of the franchise.
Over the next 11 weeks, AtlantaFalcons.com will publish a Q&A with one of the 11 limited partners of the Atlanta Falcons. In these discussions, the limited partners share advice for navigating the world of business, their favorite Atlanta Falcons memories and so much more.
This week, Derek Smith shares his answers.
Derek Smith
Smith is the former chairman and CEO of ChoicePoint Inc., a leading provider of decision-making technology and information that helped to reduce fraud and mitigate risk. He is the Founder and Chairman of GivingPoint, Inc., a nonprofit organization designed to inspire a new generation of social entrepreneurs who seek to connect and serve others in today's technology-driven world.
He most recently launched another nonprofit initiative, the Game of Golf Institute (GOGI), a revolutionary concept to advance the enjoyment, popularity and growth of the game of golf. GOGI provides free education, research and game improvement tools driven by social media and mobile device applications with a primary focus on juniors, women and underserved golf populations. Smith is also on the board of directors of Geeknet and the Georgia Aquarium.
Why did you want to become a limited partner in the Atlanta Falcons organization?
Ultimate camaraderie and competition. The Falcons organization, both on and off the field, are special, talented people. There's a unique bond that energizes Atlanta both in football excellence and community service. I enjoy and thrive on competition, and there is no more competitive environment than inside the NFL.
What is your favorite Atlanta Falcons related memory?
Our NFC Championship game against Green Bay. I was unable to attend my close high school quarterback and friend's funeral that day so, alternatively, I placed his jersey on the field pre-game and sent a photo in tribute to friends attending the service. Following our victory, on the same spot, participating in our NFC Championship celebration and awarding of the George Halas trophy was personally thrilling and also a fitting tribute to the memory of my friend.
When you look back at your career, what is something that makes you the most proud?
The fact our company, ChoicePoint, created a safer, more secure society through the responsible use of information. We identified terrorist cells, brought home hundreds of kidnapped children, used DNA to identify victims of the 9/11 bombing and assisted in criminal investigations that eventually freed falsely accused inmates that were innocent of convicted crimes.
Can you briefly describe any philanthropic passions you have?
My philanthropy is about the "humanity" dislocated in a technology driven world. Primarily focused on women, children and the societally disadvantaged recent efforts have included establishing GivingPoint (helping youth find their philanthropic passions), respite facility support for neurologically challenged individuals and their families, donating therapy horses and dogs and remodeling rooms for handicapped children.
Who had been your biggest personal and professional influences?
Mike Kami and Ken Langone. Dr. Kami was considered the top strategic thinker of his generation and was a renowned consultant, speaker and author. Together we advanced the concept of "The Exponential Society" describing the forces that would drive societal change in the next 25 years. Ken Langone was a co-founder of Home Depot with Arthur Blank and Bernie Marcus and is an extraordinary capitalist, philanthropist, mentor and friend. As a Board member of my company, ChoicePoint, Ken provided wisdom and unwavering character and support during his tenure.
Who is your favorite player (Falcons or otherwise) of all time?
Matt Ryan, who is the epitome of athletic excellence, an unrelenting competitor, supportive teammate and of unrivaled character. His energy and leadership transformed the Falcons competitive spirit and culture during his tenure.
