Arthur M. Blank, the esteemed owner of the Atlanta Falcons, has recently announced the addition of four groundbreaking limited partners to the team’s ownership group. This exciting development not only marks a significant shift for the NFL, but also serves as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the Falcons’ unwavering commitment to diversity, representation, and impactful leadership.
The new additions to the Falcons’ ownership group include Rosalind Brewer, Dominique Dawes, Will Packer, and Rashaun Williams. These individuals bring a wealth of experience from diverse fields such as corporate business, athletics, entertainment, and finance. Brewer, who has been an associate director on the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation board since 2016, will continue her role while contributing to the Falcons’ success.
Dominique Dawes, a name synonymous with excellence, broke barriers as a member of the 1996 Atlanta Olympics gymnastics team. Her triumph as the first African American woman to win Olympic gold in gymnastics remains a landmark achievement in sports history. Dawes’ involvement with the Falcons underscores her enduring legacy and commitment to inspiring future generations.
Will Packer, known for his groundbreaking work in film production, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Falcons’ ownership. Packer’s career has been marked by a dedication to celebrating diversity and inclusion, with his films often spotlighting the importance of representation in media and leadership. His entry into the NFL ownership circle is a testament to the evolving landscape of professional sports and entertainment.
Rashaun Williams, a prominent family office investor and venture capitalist, has backed over 170 ventures with more than 50 successful exits. He founded Value Investment Group and co-founded Queensbridge Venture Partners, early backers of companies like Robinhood, Coinbase, and Lyft. Williams’ expertise in finance and investment will be a valuable asset to the Falcons’ ownership group.
Arthur Blank expressed his enthusiasm for the new partners, stating, “Roz, Dominique, Will, and Rashaun are impressive leaders who have made an impact in a variety of enterprises while also building histories of success, making a difference in the world around them and positively impacting people in ways that align very well with our Core Values. Each brings unique talent, experience, and perspective to our ownership group, so I’m excited to have them on board as limited partners and to tap into their vast expertise in finding ways to continue building the Atlanta Falcons and making an even bigger difference in our community.”
The addition of these trailblazing individuals to the Falcons’ ownership is not just a symbolic gesture; it is a practical step towards fostering a culture that values diverse perspectives and experiences. By incorporating leaders like Dawes and Packer, the Falcons are positioning themselves at the forefront of this movement, championing a vision of inclusivity that resonates both on and off the field. The Falcons are not just setting new leadership and community engagement standards, they are paving the way for a future where these standards are the norm, instilling hope and optimism in the hearts of their fans.
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Fharnell M.
