Ackerman, Charles, October 2, 2005
Scope and Contents
Charles Ackerman starts the interview by reflecting on his family and upbringing in New York. He discusses his Jewish life growing up and how his interest in racial equality carries over into his role on the Board of Clark Atlanta University and the REAP program. Ackerman discusses his time in the United States Army before attending Emory Law School after serving in the CIA. He details his entrance into the real estate industry and his success as a leasing agent. Ackerman then explains his motivation for getting a graduate degree in anthropology after his trip to Russia. He switches back to the topic of real estate and how he established his own real estate agency, as well as his experience as a businessman. Ackerman recalls some of his major life-changing events, including an expedition to the Antarctic for National Geographic, a robbery that occurred in his home, and his family. He discusses how the home invasion inspired him to start his own security company. Ackerman talks about his family at the time of the recording. Lastly, he reflects on his greatest contributions to charity and involvement in politics.
Dates
- Creation: October 2, 2005
Conditions Governing Access
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Biographical / Historical
Charles Ackerman was born on September 10, 1933, in New York, New York. He grew up with his two brothers, Alan and Robert, as well as his parents. He graduated from the University of North Carolina with a Bachelor of Science. After college, Ackerman served in the United States Army for two years before continuing his education at the Emory University School of Law. Additionally, he pursued a graduate degree in Anthropology from Georgia State University. Ackerman has two children: Carlyn and Paige. He was a prominent figure in the Atlanta Commercial Real Estate world and eventually established his own company, Ackerman & Co, in 1967. He later established Ackerman Security Systems Inc. after receiving injuries during a robbery in his home. Ackerman was heavily involved in the Atlanta community and was the Founder of REAP Atlanta, National Board of Governors for the American Jewish Committee, Chairman of the Board and Advisory Board Member for Emory University's Michael C. Carlos Museum, Board of Trustees Clark Atlanta University, Advisory Board of the University of North Carolina, and many other leadership positions. He was a part of Temple Sinai, who held his memorial service for his passing on September 22, 2017.
Extent
From the Collection: 15 Terabytes
Language of Materials
English
Abstract
Charles Ackerman interviewed by Sara Ghitis on October 2, 2005 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Duration
02:02:58
Format
Video
Repository Details
Part of the William Breman Jewish Heritage Museum Repository
1440 Spring St. NW
Atlanta Georgia 30309 United States
678-222-3700
