Mr. Allen Edward (Ward) Howell, III

Ward Howell has been a resident of DeKalb County since 1999 and currently serves as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Alacriti, a payments technology company provides payment platforms for US banks and credit unions. He has more than 25 years of experience in financial services, technology, payments, and strategic partnerships.

Ward and his wife own a small business based in Chamblee. He has also been active in the local community, previously serving as an executive board member of Keep Chamblee Beautiful.

Ward holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business and Spanish from the University of Georgia. He and his wife have called DeKalb County home for more than 25 years and remain actively engaged in the Chamblee community.

Lauren holds two bachelor’s degrees from Xavier University of Louisiana and North Carolina A&T State University, as well as a master’s degree from Florida State University. She is a member of several organizations, including the Junior League of Atlanta, the American Legion Auxiliary, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People DeKalb County Branch. Lauren currently serves her second term as Corresponding Secretary of the Atlanta Alumni Chapter of Xavier University of Louisiana, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to principled governance. Beyond her professional and board responsibilities, Lauren values family, community involvement, and pursuing her personal interests. Lauren is a long-time resident of DeKalb County.