OUR HISTORY
The Legacy of
Robert S. Spencer
Robert Spencer
(1929-1979)
Robert Spencer was a seminal leader in the risk management field. For 17 years, he held numerous management positions at Fuqua Industries Inc., where he developed the organization’s diverse risk management program, co-founded the Bermuda-based Fuqua Insurance Company Ltd., set standards on the dealings of captives in the domestic and international reinsurance markets, and created a workers compensation, self-retention program adopted by 31 U.S. states.
In addition, Robert was a leader in RIMS, serving as president of the Atlanta Chapter in 1973, and as vice president (1974–1977) and then president (1977–1978) of the national organization. He was also a founding member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants. In all these roles, Robert developed numerous programs — including RIMS’ Anita Benedetti Student Involvement Program — so that the principles of good risk management could be passed on.
Long after his death, in 1979, Spencer continues Robert’s legacy by providing educational opportunities for young people seeking to advance their education in business, insurance, actuarial sciences, and risk management.
WHO WE ARE TODAY
The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the RIMS Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow’s risk management and insurance leaders!
The Spencer Educational Foundation:
Awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science.
Provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus.
Funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities.
Supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies.
Operates across the United States and Canada.