Matt Dawson

Matt Dawson (“Dawson”) is a M&A investment banker, corporate investor and small business operator turned multi-record holding endurance and adventure athlete; sought-after public speaker; lifestyle/performance advisor; and founder of Dawson’s Peak Foundation. Beginning project Seven for Soldiers in May 2021, Dawson set multiple records by rapidly completing a previously unheard-of number of global expeditions (in a single year), including summiting the Seven Summits (the highest peak on every continent); skiing to a pole (South Pole); traversing a desert (Mojave); and rowing across an ocean (Atlantic). Although he was on track to additionally ski to the North Pole and fly a single-engine plane around the world during this same year, his plans were delayed due to the global pandemic and Russia/Ukraine events. Additionally, Dawson set a new world record in May 2024 by becoming the fastest person to ever cross the Mojave Desert on foot - covering 329.5 miles in 7 days, 8 hours, and 45 minutes (solo and unsupported). Through project Seven for Soldiers, Dawson has exemplified what is possible when we identify a goal and fully apply ourselves. In order to even begin project-dedicated training, he lost 40lbs and 10% body fat. Initially slated to start in May 2020, following 18 months of full-time training, the project start was postponed 12 months due the emergence of COVID-19. By the project’s kick-off in May 2021, Dawson had endured 30 months of training; two surgeries; multiple surgical procedures; broken bones; and torn muscles just to reach the starting line. Following his freshman year at the United States Naval Academy, Dawson graduated from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. While at Wharton, he was a member of the varsity football team (Ivy League Champions) and also worked as a business consultant with the Wharton Small Business Development Center, providing strategic advice to small business owners. As a Managing Director with William & Henry Associates, Dawson possesses 20 years of financial advisory and corporate finance experience. He has participated in a variety of engagements, including mergers and acquisitions, private capital placement and strategic advisory services. He holds 4 licenses with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, including Series 7, 63, 79, and 24. Prior to his corporate finance career, Dawson trained to play professional football and received multiple contract offers. At age 19, Dawson’s goal of playing professional football was derailed for several years as he developed severe bi-lateral compartmental syndrome in both calves so bad that he could barely ascend a single flight of stairs. Following bi-lateral surgery, it took Dawson several years of rehabilitation to learn how to walk, run and train again. He ultimately ended his pursuit, due to additional injuries. He still manages his ongoing leg issues daily. Dawson is an avid traveler (35+ countries); licensed motorcycle racer; U.S. Navy qualified “Expert” with pistol and rifle; outdoor enthusiast; and IFR licensed fixed wing (airplane) pilot (currently training to add multi-engine rating). In addition, Dawson is Treasurer for the Los Angeles Circle of Giving (a non-profit organization serving the community by helping individuals and families that are experiencing a challenging life event); and has served as a Mentor for the LEAP Foundation in Los Angeles, CA.