What's Happening?
The Georgia Historical Society (GHS) has announced Shan Cooper, founder and CEO of Journey Forward Strategies, LLC, and Doug Hertz, Chairman and CEO of United Distributors, Inc., as the 2027 Georgia Trustees. This designation is the highest honor the State
of Georgia can bestow. Cooper and Hertz will be formally inducted by the GHS and the Office of the Governor on April 24, 2027, at the Trustees Gala in Savannah. Dr. W. Todd Groce, President and CEO of the Georgia Historical Society, highlighted their selfless leadership and service as embodying the Georgia Trustees motto, 'Not for Self, but for Others.' The Georgia Trustees program, reestablished in 2008 in conjunction with the Governor’s Office, recognizes Georgians whose achievements and community contributions reflect the founding principles of the original Trustees chartered by King George II in 1732. These original Trustees established Georgia on the principle of 'Non Sibi, Sed Aliis,' meaning 'Not for Self, but for Others.' The Governor annually appoints new Trustees based on their history-making accomplishments and adherence to these ideals.
Why It's Important?
The recognition of Shan Cooper and Doug Hertz as Georgia Trustees underscores the significant impact of individual leadership and philanthropy on the state's development and community well-being. Cooper, with her background as vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company and her work in diversity and inclusion, represents a commitment to corporate responsibility and social equity. Her current role as a Senior Advisor to McKinsey Consulting and her extensive board memberships demonstrate her continued influence across various sectors. Hertz's leadership in expanding United Distributors, Inc. into one of Georgia's top privately held companies, coupled with his founding of Camp Twin Lakes, highlights the intersection of business success and profound philanthropic dedication. Camp Twin Lakes serves nearly 13,000 special needs children and adults annually, showcasing a direct, tangible benefit to vulnerable populations. This dual recognition emphasizes that economic prosperity and community service are not mutually exclusive but can be mutually reinforcing, setting a precedent for future leaders in Georgia to aspire to both professional excellence and civic engagement.
What's Next?
Shan Cooper and Doug Hertz are scheduled to be formally inducted as Georgia Trustees on April 24, 2027, at the Trustees Gala in Savannah. This event will serve as a public acknowledgment of their contributions and will likely draw attention to their respective careers and philanthropic endeavors. Following their induction, their roles as Georgia Trustees will further elevate their platforms, potentially enabling them to inspire greater civic participation and philanthropic efforts across the state. Their continued involvement in various boards and organizations, such as Intercontinental Exchange, Inc., SouthState Corporation, Grady Health System for Cooper, and the Georgia Ports Authority Board and Marcus Foundation for Hertz, suggests that their influence will persist and possibly expand. The Georgia Historical Society will continue its mission of recognizing individuals who embody the state's founding principles, with future annual appointments of new Trustees by the Governor. This ongoing tradition ensures a continuous spotlight on leaders who prioritize community service alongside professional achievements.
Beyond the Headlines
The Georgia Trustees program, by honoring individuals like Shan Cooper and Doug Hertz, reinforces a foundational ethos in Georgia that extends beyond mere economic success to encompass profound civic responsibility. This tradition, rooted in the original 1732 charter, subtly shapes the state's cultural and ethical landscape by promoting a 'Not for Self, but for Others' mentality. The selection criteria, emphasizing both accomplishments and community service, suggests a societal value placed on leaders who actively contribute to the common good. This can influence corporate social responsibility initiatives within Georgia, encouraging businesses and their leaders to integrate philanthropic and community-focused strategies into their core operations. Furthermore, the program serves as a historical bridge, connecting contemporary leaders with the foundational principles of the state, thereby fostering a sense of continuity and shared heritage. It also highlights the importance of diverse leadership, as exemplified by Cooper's trailblazing career in traditionally male-dominated fields and her focus on inclusivity, which can inspire future generations to pursue leadership roles with a commitment to social impact.
