A graduate of Cornell Univerity, Duane Sherman is a long-time hospitality industry executive. In 2007, he and his wife, Martha, transferred to metro Atlanta and chose to make Marietta their home. Martha was active in Marietta schools through the PTSA, Touchdown Club and volunteering at the front desk at the high school.

Their two sons, Patrick and Ian, both attended Marietta City Schools starting at Westside Elementary and graduating in the mid 2010’s. Both also graduated from Kennesaw State University and live in the area. Ian as a mechanical engineer and designer at a local firm. Patrick as a patrol officer with the Marietta Police Department after serving 8 years in the Georgia Army National Guard.

Sherman has served in numerous organizations and boards of directors with the Marietta centric ones being: Visit Marietta, Marietta High School Culinary Program ACF Advisory Board and Marietta Touchdown Club. Since 2017, he has served in the Georgia State Defense Force.

Growing up in a military family, Jody experienced frequent relocations before finding her home in Marietta. She is deeply involved in the community and Marietta City Schools, having served as PTSA President at Marietta Middle School and continuing to volunteer her time to support staff and coordinate activities.

Through her participation in the Marietta City Government Citizens Academy and the Marietta Citizens Police Academy, Jody recognized the need for greater community involvement. What began as providing snacks for on-duty officers at Marietta Police Department has evolved into a broader initiative, encompassing feeding Cobb Sheriff, Cobb 911, Marietta City Schools Resource Officers, and Wellstar Emergency Department during times of crisis. Following a traumatic event, Jody and friend, Laura Austin (also a Board Member), rallied the community and raised over $3300 in just a few hours, solidifying Marietta, Georgia's reputation as the “City of Giving”.

Tim, a proud resident of Marietta since 2007, embodies the spirit of community service and collaboration. With a firm belief in the transformative power of teamwork and giving back, Tim is committed to positively impacting his hometown. His dedication shines through his extensive volunteer work with local organizations, where he focuses on assisting families, youth, the homeless, and individuals in need.

During his children's time at Marietta High School, Tim was actively involved with various groups such as the School Governance Team (SGT), Touchdown Club, and Takedown Club, highlighting his commitment to supporting education and extracurricular activities. Beyond the school community, he has supported organizations like Lazarus Ministries, Jobs for Life, and the Mental Health Association, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to community betterment.

Throughout his career as an executive and Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Tim has lent his expertise to various professional and civic boards, contributing his skills to drive positive change. Additionally, he holds a deep respect for the men and women who serve and protect Marietta, advocating for their well-being through his involvement in this foundation.

Laura has lived in Marietta since 2004 and is heavily invested in the community. Being married to a lifelong Cobb County resident and Navy Chief have given her perspective on helping serve and support those who selflessly protect and serve us day in and day out. Spearheaded by her friend Jody Traylor (also a board member), she’s helped provide snacks for MPD regularly in addition to meals for Cobb Sheriff, 911 dispatch, and MPD/MFD. Joining the MPD foundation board will let her be more involved in efforts to make an even greater impact supporting our public safety heroes.

Tom is currently a Culinary Consultant with more than 27 years of experience as an executive chef with restaurants including Ray’s on the River, The Capital Grille, Horseradish Grill, the 1848 House, Café Protégé (Florida Culinary Institute), Azalea, The Abbey, The Occidental (Washington, D.C.).

He has appeared in various TV shows as a Guest Chef and contestant, including Chopped, National Broadcast, Great Chefs & Great Cities (PBS), Atlanta Chefs with Tim Creehan and Featured Chefs. He has also been featured in various publications including the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Food Arts, Knife & Fork, Produce Concepts, Atlanta Magazine, Flavors Magazine.

Son-in-law of the past Mayor Bill Dunaway, he has strong ties to Marietta. His Father-in-law, wife and daughter are graduates of Marietta High School and his daughter works as an elementary school teacher at West Side Elementary.

Like hospitality, Tom has the heart of a servant. Especially for those who serve and protect!! MPD heroes!

Laing is a native of Albany, GA, and attended University of Georgia graduating in 1980. He has lived in Cobb County since 1982 and, since July 1992, in the city of Marietta. He is married to Melinda and they have two adult daughters who attended the Marietta City School system from kindergarten through high school.

He previously served on the Marietta Welcome Center and Visitor’s Bureau and Cobb Landmarks board of directors. Currently, Laing is serving on the Marietta Housing Authority board, the Marietta Tree Keepers board and on an industry board, HIRA.

Laing has been active in the community as a past member of West Side Elementary Dad’s Club and PTA, Transportation Chair of Marietta Pilgrimage Home Tour from 2008-2016, and he currently assists with the Marietta Farmers Market.

He is looking forward to serving on the Marietta Police Foundation Board and supporting our men and women who protect our community.