The Board of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development this month held a program in Clarkesville. The Essentials program included a diverse group of participants, including economic development professionals, elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators, and engaged citizens.
The Essentials provides attendees with an opportunity to gain an understanding of the complexities of economic and community development on the local, regional, and state levels.
Created in 1993, the Academy assembles a cross-section of experts, a research-based curriculum, and resources necessary for building a vibrant economy.
The Board of Directors of the Academy is comprised of public and private economic development organizations and agencies from across Georgia.
Georgia EMC and Georgia Power provide facilitators for the program on behalf of their members and stakeholders. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs provides staff and resources to execute the program statewide.
Since its inception, the Academy has provided training for thousands of Georgians.
For more information on the Georgia Academy for Economic Development: The Essentials, visit www.GeorgiaAcademy.org.
Essentials participants at the meeting in Clarkesville on February 8th included:
- Banks County – Brad McCook
- Franklin County – Rachel Howington
- Habersham County – Mike Beecham, Jeff Bruns, Bill Duff, Bryan Ferguson, Charlie Fiveash,
- Noah Hamil, Bruce Palmer, Gail Thaxton, Alicia Vaughn, Allen Whitener
- Hall County – Tony Cornett, Denise Shockley
- Hart County – Susanne Barfield, Lindsey Ingle
- Jackson County – Natalie Thomas
- Lumpkin County – Amanda Edmondson, Clarence Stowers
- Stephens County – Shannon McFarlin, Chris Rickman, Dave Stancil
- Towns County – Liz Ordiales
- White County – Vicky S. Frankum
