How They First Became involved with Hamilton and the Foundation: Robert and Rachel moved to Dalton 25 years ago. Shortly afterwards, some friends asked them to join with them in supporting Hamilton Medical Center through membership in the Hamilton Club, the Foundation’s annual giving club. Robert and Rachel have advanced their giving through the years and are now Westcott Fellows of Distinction.
Current Involvement with WHF: Robert became a Trustee of the Foundation Board in 1998, serving as Chairman of the Board from 2010 through 2015. He currently serves as Chairman of the Signature Gifts Committee. Rachel is a steadfast cheerleader for Hamilton, telling everyone who will listen how lucky we are to have a first class healthcare system in our community.
Background: Robert grew up in Griffin, Georgia, and Rachel in Maryville, Tennessee. Both moved to Dalton 25 years ago as a stopover, but “made this place home!” Rachel has been a schoolteacher in the county school system, pausing to raise their children. Robert has been an attorney with the McCamy Law Firm since graduating from UGA law school.
Family: Robert and Rachel will celebrate their 25th Anniversary next summer. Their children, Rob and Mary Charlotte, are both students at the University of Georgia. Their precious Labradoodle Lucy not only rounds out, but as Rachel will attest, “runs” the family.
Activities and Interests: The Smalley’s love to spend time with family and friends, are avid readers, and enjoy snow skiing out west. Robert and Rachel are longtime members and servants at their church, First Presbyterian Church. Prior to her children attending college, Rachel was an active volunteer with Dalton Public Schools and Girls Preparatory School. She currently teaches at Westside Elementary School, and continues to be a wonderful homemaker and host to family and friends. Robert is an avid Georgia fan and serves our community on a number of boards.
In Their Own Words…Why We Give to the Foundation: “We give to the Foundation because health and wellness is a priority for a happy life. So many places would do anything to have a healthcare system like we, too often, take for granted. At some point, everyone you ever met will need great healthcare!”
What excites you about Peeples Cancer Institute? “Dalton has always had big ambitions for a small town. There’s no reason our community folks should have to drive to Atlanta or Chattanooga when they’re dealing with cancer. Now they can be home! Positive experiences will yield positive outcomes!”
On behalf of Hamilton and the Foundation, we say thank you to Robert and Rachel. We are grateful for your longtime support, and are so glad that Dalton was the place you chose to raise your family after you stopped here 25 years ago. Your generous giving of time and resources to the Foundation helps move Hamilton forward toward being the best it can be for our friends, families and neighbors. We are honored to have your support and thank you for being ONE with us.
