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Charles Brewer Resigns as Chairman of EarthLink Inc., Sky Dayton to Take Over

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Atlanta-based Charles Brewer, who resigned as chairman of EarthLink Inc. on Wednesday, had been distancing himself from the company since its merger with MindSpring in February. Brewer, the founder of MindSpring, sold his holdings in EarthLink, including 2.9 million shares, as part of the company's stock repurchase plan. The company will continue to be based in Atlanta under the leadership of CEO Garry Betty, a Georgia native and graduate of Georgia Tech. Dayton, the founder of EarthLink, will step in as the new chairman of the board, bringing his experience and expertise to the role.

Key Takeaways:

  • Charles Brewer resigned as chairman of EarthLink Inc. on Wednesday after distancing himself from the company since its merger with MindSpring in February.
  • Brewer sold his holdings in EarthLink, including 2.9 million shares, as part of the company's stock repurchase plan.
  • EarthLink will continue to be based in Atlanta under the leadership of CEO Garry Betty, who has a strong commitment to the city and the tech community.
  • Sky Dayton, the founder of EarthLink, will take over as the new chairman of the board, bringing his creative and innovative approach to the role.
  • Dayton has been an active member of the EarthLink board and has been involved in various initiatives, including creating EarthLink software that defaulted to an EarthLink homepage.
  • Several analysts have praised Dayton's appointment, citing his ability to drive the company forward and provide strategic direction.
  • Frank Gristina of Robinson Humphrey noted that Dayton will challenge the company to do better and drive progress, just as Brewer did during his tenure.

Statistics:

  • 2.9 million shares: The number of shares in EarthLink that Charles Brewer sold as part of the company's stock repurchase plan.
  • 6 months: The length of time that Lindsey Milton has worked at EarthLink.
  • 5 years: The amount of time that Ty Welch has worked at the company.
  • 10+ years: The amount of time that Michael McQuary has known Charles Brewer.

Sources:

  • "Charles Brewer Resigns as EarthLink Chairman" by Frances Katz, The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, August 1, 2000.
  • "Brewer to Step Down, Dayton to Take Over at EarthLink" by Tracy Thompson, The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, February 4, 2000 (dates mentioned in the text).
  • "EarthLink to Stay in Atlanta, Founders Return" by Susan Osborne, The Atlanta Journal and Constitution, February 4, 2000.

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