George Haywood

George Haywood's life, an exemplary tale of intellectual brilliance, financial ingenuity, and philanthropic commitment, began in Washington, DC. Born on September 30, 1952, to parents who were dedicated public school teachers, he was nurtured in a setting where education and community service were deeply valued. His academic path commenced at Brightwood Elementary School. It flourished at Saint Albans School, where he excelled academically and athletically, notably as soccer team co-captain and academic quiz team captain—these formative years paved the way for his early admission to Harvard College at 16, where he majored in biology, setting the stage for a varied and impactful career. Following his time at Harvard, his professional journey was marked by diverse experiences. He initially explored roles such as a flight attendant and a skilled blackjack player before pivoting towards law and finance, as indicated by a formative stint at Harvard Law School. This shift ushered in a significant career in finance, beginning with his groundbreaking position at Lehman Brothers in 1982, where he became the first black managing director and led the corporate bond trading department. His career in finance then evolved into hedge fund management and private investing. In addition to his finance career, he made significant contributions to the biotechnology sector, mainly through investments in companies like XM Satellite Radio, Martek Biosciences, and AVI BioPharma. His role in Martek was instrumental in revolutionizing infant nutrition by introducing DHA into infant formulas. His philanthropic activities are as commendable as his professional endeavors. He has been a passionate advocate for education, supporting various schools and scholarship programs. His philanthropy also extends to cultural and social welfare organizations, reflecting his commitment to community enrichment. In his personal life, he is an accomplished master's track and field athlete, holding multiple world records. His dedication to personal excellence parallels his professional and philanthropic efforts. As a devoted husband and father, George Haywood's life story is a testament to how professional success, philanthropic dedication, and personal integrity can create a meaningful and enduring impact.