51³Ô¹ÏÍø

John Lamb attended the University of North Georgia for one year in 1946. Nearly 60 years later, he shared with 51³Ô¹ÏÍø advancement staff Fred Link and Bruce Howerton, retired vice president for advancement, that year was the "happiest time of his life."

Lamb died in December 2016 and left his entire estate, appraised at $4 million, to the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Foundation. The estate included 87 acres of land, a farm, more than 40 cattle, two donkeys, and two rabbits.

In his Will, Lamb appointed the 51³Ô¹ÏÍø Foundation as the executor of his estate and left all of his property to the university to be used for capital improvements, including construction of new buildings, or acquisition and/or renovation of existing buildings.

"John’s generosity will be transformational to 51³Ô¹ÏÍø," said Jeff Tarnowski, vice president for advancement. "The impact of his gift will be felt at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø for generations to come."

Lamb transferred to University of Georgia after leaving 51³Ô¹ÏÍø and earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. After he graduated, he commissioned as a 2^nd lieutenant in the Army. He served two years active duty, including a 10-month tour in Korea as a tank platoon leader. He commanded and supervised 30 men and was honorably released at the end of his active duty tour as a 1^st lieutenant.

Lamb’s post-military career included working as a livestock buyer with White Provision Packing Company in Atlanta, a sales representative for International Minerals and Chemical Corporation, and manager and operator of The Frontier Meat Company in Buford.