The kickoff of SAE Atlanta race week began on October 2nd at UGA and finished on October 7th with the Petit Le Mans held at Road Atlanta. It was an action packed week with students from UGA, Ga Tech, Kennesaw State University and Georgia Southern participating in SAE chapter reports, guest speaker presentations and enjoying a VIP pass at the track. Over 100 students and professionals participated in the event.

John Hope Bryant was this year’s guest speaker. John is an American financial literacy entrepreneur and businessman. He is the founder, chairman and chief executive officer of nonprofit Operation HOPE, chief executive officer of Bryant Group Ventures and founder of Bryant Group Motorsports Academy. John delivered a powerful message that highlighted the value of “relationship capital.”

As a result, the relationship between SAE chapters grew and a new relationship between SAE Atlanta and Bryant Group Motorsports academy was formed. “My takeaway from the event is that John reignited my passion for what we do… reminding me why we continue to push ourselves in our efforts” – Heather Knoll, SAE Atlanta board member and Mechanical Design Engineer @ Honda Engineering North America, Inc.

John was thrilled to receive an SAE plaque of appreciation from Rossella Manfrinato, SAE Atlanta board member and engineer for Ferrari and Philip Creighton Motorsport.

Mike Stonecipher

SAE Atlanta Board Chair