Founding Partners Honored.

On November 15, 2006, our founding partners, Joe Smith and Jim Howard, were honored by Georgia State University as the 2006 recipients of the Robinson Alumni Leadership Award: Lifetime Achievement. Joe and Jim were feted for their achievements in their chosen field and their many contributions to the profession and community. Georgia State noted that the common thread among all recipients is a stellar record of distinguished career achievements combined with outstanding contributions to their professions. The selection committee focuses on qualified individuals who serve as role models to current students and to newcomers to the profession.

The event was held at the High Museum of Art, in the Wieland Grand Lobby. Many long-time clients of the firm were in attendance, as were family, friends and Smith & Howard partners.

You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.

- Woodrow Wilson

The achievements of these two gentlemen extend beyond their profession, to include family, friends, associates and community. All of us at Smith & Howard are honored to be part of the team that Joe and Jim have assembled.


2006 Award Recipients


Jim Howard


Joe Smith


Jim Howard accepts Lifetime Achievement Award, thanking his family - Mary Long and Megan, and co-recipient, Joe Smith.


Jim's family, left to right: Mary Long Howard, Jim Howard, Megan Howard.


Joe and Jim, prior to award presentation


Joe Smith accepts Lifetime Achievement Award, thanking his family, giving tribute to his wife Jude and to co-recipient, Jim Howard.


Joe Smith and Jim Howard


Long-time client, Reggie Vachon, helps Joe get ready for his speech.


Joe's extended family. Front row left to right with Joe Smith: Smith Childs, Whid Childs and Braxton Young. Back row, left to right: Michaela Young, Scott Young, Jude Smith, Michael Smith, Sarah Margaret Young, Pam Smith, Natalie Childs and Jim Childs