Our Legacy

Kim King, a shining example of integrity, perseverance, courage, respect and giving back to the community.

The Kim King Foundation was created in 2004 following the untimely passing of Kim King. The former star quarterback for Georgia Tech and successful Atlanta businessman was dedicated to giving back to the community, particularly the West End of Atlanta where he grew up. He attributed his own success to his core values of integrity, perseverance, courage and respect – especially for education. In turn, he sought to impart these fundamental values to the children of the West End. Today, we are proud to continue his legacy by providing educational support for and creating opportunities to help the children of the West End fulfill their potential in life.

Early Years

Born in 1945 and raised in the economically challenged West End area of Atlanta, Georgia, Kim King attended E.L. Connally Elementary School and Brown High School. He received eleven letters in football, basketball and baseball in addition to being chosen class president and salutatorian. Despite his humble beginnings, he attended Georgia Institute of Technology on a football scholarship where he broke 13 records and played in two Collegiate Bowls as the team’s starting quarterback from 1965 to 1967. Kim also excelled in his studies as member of the National Honor Society, and earned a place on the Dean’s List.

A Legendary Leader

Recognized as one of Atlanta’s most influential business leaders, Kim’s success and impact on the city is legendary. When he was only 25 years old, Kim started his commercial real estate development company. Through economic booms and busts, he continued to work hard and pursue his dreams, to shape the sleepy southern town of the 40’s into a great international city of the 21st century. A committed family man, he attributed much of his success to education and a “never give up” attitude.

Recognized For His Accomplishments

Before losing his battle with leukemia at the age of 59, Kim was chosen by Georgia Trend magazine as “The Most Respected CEO in Georgia”. As “One of the 50 Greatest Athletes of the 20th Century at Georgia Tech”, Kim was inducted into the Georgia Tech Athletic Hall of Fame and the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame. He will also be remembered by Tech fans as the football radio color analyst for 30 years. For his contributions, Kim was honored with the dedication of the “Kim King Locker Room” at Georgia Tech, a constant reminder of his athletic achievements, contributions to his alma mater and to the City of Atlanta.