Jim (BBA ’65) and Rene Nalley have long been recognized as dedicated champions of the University of Georgia, shaping both its academic landscape and athletic excellence through decades of generous support. Their commitment to UGA reflects the same values that have guided the Nalley family for generations — hard work, integrity and a belief in investing in institutions that strengthen communities.

A graduate of the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, Jim entered the family automobile business in 1971, becoming the third generation of Nalleys to carry forward a legacy that began in 1918, when his grandfather opened the first Nalley dealership. Following in his footsteps, the couple’s three sons — Clay (BBA ’03), Slater and Street (BBA ’01) — founded SONS Auto Group. The business remains a true family enterprise, with each son serving as a partner and Clay’s sons, Chase and Camden, now carrying the Bulldog tradition forward as current UGA students.

The Nalley family’s philanthropic impact is visible across UGA’s campus. They have been major supporters of the Terry College of Business, UGA Athletics, the Morehead Honors College and the School of Medicine’s new Medical Education and Research Building. Their support helped name the south gallery at the Georgia Museum of Art, established the Nalley Family Golf Championship and endowed both the Nalley Distinguished Chair in Business and the Nalley Distinguished Chair in Finance. These investments reflect the family’s enduring belief in strengthening the University’s academic foundation and expanding opportunities for students and faculty.

Continuing this tradition, Clay and his wife, Kim, are members of the Parents Leadership Council, where they champion parent engagement and philanthropic support for campus initiatives. Clay and Kim, along with Street, are also dedicated supporters of UGA Athletics as members of the Magill Society and contributors to facilities enhancement projects.

The family’s service to the University extends well beyond philanthropy. A former chair of the University of Georgia Foundation, Jim played a pivotal role in establishing the UGA Real Estate Foundation, an initiative that has transformed the University’s ability to develop and manage campus facilities. He has also served as a practitioner and lecturer in UGA’s Terry College of Business. In recognition of his sustained support of the University, Jim received UGA’s Alumni Merit Award in 2000 and was honored with the Blue Key Service Award in 2008. He continues to support UGA through his work as an emeritus trustee of the UGA Foundation and as an emeritus member of the Terry College of Business Alumni Board.

Through philanthropy and service, the Nalley family’s legacy and impact on the University community will endure for generations to come.