Westside Future Fund (WFF) celebrated the appointment of T. Dallas Smith as Chair of its Board of Directors in a private reception this month. A prominent figure in Atlanta’s real estate sector and a native son of the historic Westside, Smith has a profound commitment to community development and a personal connection to the neighborhoods he grew up in. His leadership brings invaluable expertise and dedication to advancing equitable housing and economic opportunities, marking a pivotal moment in WFF’s mission to revitalize and restore Atlanta’s historic Westside communities.

More than 100 special guests attended the event, which included a fireside chat between Smith and his long-time friend, and mixed-income development leader, Egbert Perry, Chairman of the Integral Group. Smith joined the WFF Board in November 2022. He also serves as Vice Chair on the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia, a Commissioner on the Georgians First Commission, a member of Georgia Power’s Board of Directors, and past President of the Atlanta Commercial Board of REALTORS.

His journey from his childhood in Hunter Hills to becoming the Founder and CEO of T. Dallas Smith & Company, the largest African American-owned pure tenant rep commercial real estate firm in the U.S., is a testament to his resilience and determination. Reflecting on his upbringing and the profound impact of the Westside of Atlanta on his life, Smith expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm for his new role.

“The legacy of the Westside is steeped in a rich history of Black leaders fighting to create opportunity for future generations,” said Smith. “Growing up on the Westside instilled in me a similar mission to affect change in my professional endeavors. I’m honored and excited to lead WFF’s board as we continue our next chapter to restore these neighborhoods as they were in my youth – vibrant and thriving with people and families from all backgrounds.”

In his new role as Board Chair, Smith aims to lead WFF in its mission to create a vibrant, equitable community where all residents have access to affordable housing, economic opportunities, and a high quality of life. He envisions a Westside that embraces its rich history while fostering inclusive growth and prosperity for future generations. Smith recently purchased a home in Hunter Hills on MLK and is actively involved in renovating the property.

“I appreciate Dallas’ authenticity and personal connection to the history and future of these communities,” said John Ahmann, WFF President and CEO. “His wealth of experience in the commercial real estate industry, coupled with his unwavering dedication to community development, makes him the ideal leader to guide our organization forward. We look forward to working closely with him as we continue our mission to create a vibrant, equitable historic Westside of Atlanta.”

WFF is currently in the midst of its $55 million “Our Next Chapter” capital campaign to complete its affordable housing targets established in 2017. Smith emphasizes the importance of philanthropic support in driving transformative change.

As Chair of the Board of Directors, T. Dallas Smith will play a crucial role in guiding WFF’s strategic initiatives and building partnerships to advance its mission of community revitalization on Atlanta’s Westside.