I would say that the phrase, “never take a shortcut” has been a theme throughout my career and life. As founder and president of Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty, I work to create a unique model with good people at the heart. Good business and integrity go hand in hand. With our 'clients-first' approach and warmth, reminiscent of a dose of good old fashioned Savannah hospitality, we find that our clients return time and time again.
I was born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, and graduated from St. Mary's School in New York and Sweet Briar College in Virginia, where I was honored to be named an Outstanding Alumna. Work ethic and giving back have always been important to me. During my high school and college years, I worked in both retail and insurance. I also taught in public schools in Savannah, focusing on troubled youth.
In 1974, I founded Celia Dunn Realty Company, and my husband Larry, joined in the venture in 1982. While running the company, I made it a priority to devote time to service and volunteerism. I am a lifelong member of Christ Church and have enjoyed being a Sunday school teacher. I was named Outstanding Citizen by the American Red Cross and I was the first (and only female) realtor to be honored with an Achievement Award from the Savannah Business Hall of Fame.
I have served as the President of the Junior League of Savannah, and as Chairman of Georgia Week. I have also been appointed to the board of the Historic Savannah Foundation, which has become one of the most respected local preservation organizations in the country, emphasizing not only the protection of individual historic buildings but also the revitalization of blighted neighborhoods.
I served on the boards of the Savannah Music Festival, Savannah Technical College, Savannah Children’s Community Choir, and Savannah Country Day School. I was the Vice President of Savannah Toast Masters, Director for Savannah Multi-List, and was on the Community Advisory Board for Southern Bell Telephone beginning in 1978.
In my spare time, I love my weekly tennis sessions, yoga practice and spending time in the garden. Larry and I are proud parents of two adult children and three grandchildren. Visits to Jacksonville to enjoy time with family are many, and when travel takes us a bit further from home, we enjoy the captivating sights of Paris, France, and New York City.
Awards and Designations
Founder and President of Celia Dunn Sotheby’s International Realty
Graduate of St. Mary's School in New York
Graduate of Sweet Briar College in Virginia
Outstanding Alumna, Sweet Briar College
Member of Christ Church
Outstanding Citizen by the American Red Cross
Achievement Award from the Savannah Business Hall of Fame
President of the Junior League of Savannah
Chairman of Georgia Week
Board Member, Historic Savannah Foundation,
Board Member, Savannah Music Festival, Savannah Technical College, Savannah Children’s Community Choir, and Savannah Country Day School
Vice President of Savannah Toast Masters
Director for Savannah Multi-List
Community Advisory Board for Southern Bell Telephone