Leadership Lumpkin County Alumni

Originally from South Florida, I bring a background in private security and property management. About a year and a half ago, my wife and I relocated to Dahlonega to enjoy the mountain lifestyle and more quality time together. I currently serve as the Director of R-Ranch in the Mountains, a private resort offering RV sites, cabins, horseback riding, and a scenic venue space. I'm looking forward to connecting with other local professionals and learning more about Dahlonega and Lumpkin County.

My Name is George Albert and I am honored to serve as the Chief of Police for the city of Dahlonega. Previously I worked at Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office for 11 years as a School Resource Officer, most recently at Lumpkin High School. I moved to Dahlonega in 2010 after a 22 year career in law enforcement in South Florida where I was a motorcycle officer and traffic homicide investigator.
My wife Sheri and I have been together for 30+ years, she has a local yoga practice. We have two sons, George Jr who is a graduate of UNG and worked as an Investigator for the Sheriff’s Office, before accepting a law enforcement job with the Federal Government and Stephen who works at Publix. I am proud to say both of my son’s are Eagle Scouts from Troop # 303 in Dahlonega where I served as an assistant scoutmaster.

My name is Ariel Alexander and I have lived in Dahlonega since 2011 and have worked for the City of Dahlonega's Downtown Development Authority & Main Street Program since January 2021. I attended the University of North Georgia to study Political Science/Pre-Law Studies. As the Downtown Development Director, my focus lies in developing and promoting vibrant businesses and commerce downtown through interactive programs, facilitating the incentives programs for small business development and historic preservation, and working with other community partners for all festivals and events. 

My name is Skyler Alexander, I have lived in Dahlonega since 2004 and have worked for the City of Dahlonega since 2018. I attended the University of North Georgia to study Political Science. As the Main Street Manager, my focus lies in developing and promoting vibrant businesses and commerce downtown through interactive programs, facilitating the incentives programs for small business development and historic preservation, and working with other community partners for all festivals and events. 

      Hello my name is Deven Amborski, I am currently serving in the United States Army at the 5th ranger training battalion. I grew up in northern Michigan but now my wife and I are settling down here in north Georgia. 

This former high school social studies teacher and Gifted Coordinator, owns The Dahlonega Square Hotel & Villas in the historic district of downtown Dahlonega.  DSH is a boutique hotel housing 6 king and 6 double queen rooms and one suite.  The Historic Villa is located on South Park Street.  The lobby of DSH also hosts a wine tasting room serving Kaya Wines.

Catherine also chairs the board of directors of the Lumpkin County College and Career Academy and volunteers at Jeremiah's Place.  Previously on the board of Lumpkin County Literacy Coalition and Leadership Lumpkin County as the alumni chair (LLC Class of 2015).

Catherine and husband, Johnny, have lived and worked in Lumpkin County since 1996.  Mother to two daughters; Sarah Beth Wright (Durant) and Caroline Werkheiser (Andrew) and three grandsons ranging in age from 6 years to 3 years.  

A native of Mississippi, Q moved to North Georgia as a teenager. The 1st African American Woman Business owner in Lumpkin  County, Q owns and operates Xclusiv Boutique. She is also the Founder of Xclusiv Legacy Builders, a Non-Profit that mentors youth. Extremely active in the community, Q serves as a Board Member and Advocate for Casa, she is a Board Member and mentor for the Lumpkin County Rainbow Children's Home for Girls, A Board Member for Mental Fitness America and Vice Chair of The Dahlonega Cemetery Committee. She is also a member of the Sunrise Rotary Club and The Dahlonega Chamber of Commerce. Q is passionate about serving the community and uniting all!

My name is Troy Armstrong, I am a lifelong resident of Dahlonega, GA. I'm passionate about family, fishing, and baseball. I'm currently working for the City of Dahlonega, Public Works Department as Supervisor for Cemeteries, Parks, and Streets. It’s an honor and privilege to serve my hometown community. 

My name is Spencer Ashley and I work in Dahlonega for Northeast Georgia Health System as a regional outreach and business development specialist. Raised in Canton GA, I graduated from UGA with a degree in Finance after playing football at Presbyterian College for 2 years before transferring. Working in Dahlonega for almost 2 years now, I have grown to love the community in which we serve at NGHS. I couldn't be more excited to be apart of the Lumpkin Leadership Class of 2023 and continue learning about the great city of Dahlonega. 

Katz Bagley is co-owner of Crown & Bear British Foods and Gifts, as well as Waffle's English Tea Room on the Dahlonega square. She is the mom of Waffle the famous corgi and winner of the Cutest Pet in Dahlonega contest.  She attended the Academy for Inclusive Learning and Social Growth at Kennesaw State University where she studied Culinary Arts. She holds certifications in food handling and ServSafe. She is a member of the ConnectAbility board of directors and is a Community Connections Leadership Team member (after serving for several years as a ConnectAbility intern). 

Tyler was born and raised in Lawrenceville, Georgia. He attended the University of Georgia getting a degree in Anthropology and Cognitive Science. Less than a year after graduating, Tyler decided to take a job working under his brother-in-law Tristen Vanhoff in the winery at Montaluce Vineyards in Dahlonega. Shortly thereafter they started their now winery Accent Cellars as a side project. In 2017 Tyler was able to quit his day job to commit fully to his family's dream of building their own winemaking operation. Although none of this was his goal upon graduating from college, it has become an encompassing passion to make the highest quality wine and provide the highest quality customer experience for visitors to the North Georgia Wine Country.

Hi, I'm Stephanie. I have a background in graphics and visual art. I work at APP Studios, collaborating with new and established small business owners to develop websites, graphics and digital strategy. I like helping thinkers, dreamers, and doers bring ideas to life. 

I am a summa cum laude graduate of UNG (then NGCSU) with a Bachelor of Science in Art Marketing. I have remained a transient nugget, escaping Gainesville for the mountains of Lumpkin County. My hobbies include photography, volunteering, hiking and travel, usually for new photography challenges. 

Hi, I’m Kendle Blacksher, the Member Engagement and Marketing Manager at the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce. My role focuses on connecting with local businesses, fostering relationships, and showcasing our community’s unique qualities. Originally from Missouri, I’ve spent over 21 years as an Army spouse alongside my husband, Joey. This journey has taught me resilience and the importance of community. We have two daughters, Tavie (17) and Pyper (13). 
Outside of work, I enjoy camping and photography, capturing moments from sunsets to family adventures. Dahlonega has truly become my home, and I'm passionate about sharing its beauty and opportunities.

Hi,
My name is Marc Bottoms.  I have the privilege of managing the Lumpkin County Senior Center in Dahlonega.  Prior to joining Lumpkin County I worked in education for fifteen years as a teacher, coach, and assistant principal.  I also previously spent over twenty years working for Chick-fil-A.  I enjoy spending time with my family.  I am also an ordained Baptist minister.  

Kirk Bradley is your local contact for SCORE and the Northeast Georgia Chapter. Kirk has been with SCORE since 2020 and is fully knowledgeable about the benefits of SCORE and how it can benefit you and your business goals. Contact Kirk directly anytime or visit www.SCORE. org for more information.  

Jessica “Bird” Brown is an event planner, educator, and connector who brings vision to life through Crowded Table Events, the company she co-founded to celebrate people’s stories through her expertise as an event planner. For 15 years, she served at the University of North Georgia, leading leadership programs, building community, and designing impactful experiences for students. Today, alongside running her business, Bird serves as the Director of Innovation and Operations at ConnectAbility, Inc., where she transitioned from Board Chair to full-time team member to advance the organization’s mission of inclusion. Guided by Crowded Table’s core values of trust, authentic connection, and excellence in every detail, she combines heart and expertise to create moments worth remembering.

John has been thrilled to call Dahlonega home for two decades.  He has been with The Dahlonega Nugget / Community Newspapers Inc. for nearly 15 years.  He is a 2007 graduate of the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor’s in English.  As a part of the local newspaper he has enjoyed many aspects of community coverage, including sports, local interest, and school news. He is also responsible for planning, budgeting, and editing.  He has helped The Nugget team earn several Georgia Press awards for writing, design, and general excellence.  Seeing Lumpkin County prosper is very rewarding for him, as the area becomes a more beautiful community year after year.  John enjoys being outside, and loves bringing along his camera to capture good sunrises and sunsets.  His wife Melissa has been an elementary school teacher for 20 years for the Lumpkin County School System.  They live in Dahlonega with their two boys.

Abigail Camilleri is the owner of Local Pup, a small business in Dahlonega built on creativity, community, and canine joy. Originally from Clover, South Carolina, she moved to Dahlonega in 2021 and quickly fell in love with the town’s charm and strong sense of community. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Business from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2023. Since opening Local Pup in 2022, Abigail has become passionate about supporting local entrepreneurs and contributing to the growth and future of Lumpkin County. She is honored to be part of the Lumpkin Leadership Class and looks forward to continuing her involvement in the community.

Hi, my name is Jeana Cavanaugh.  My husband Andrew, our four daughters, and I moved to Dahlonega in 2019.  We fell in love with Dahlonega after coming to my nephew's wedding here in town a little while before that.  I knew we had to move here, so we prayed about it, and it happened!  In the past couple years, we've gotten pretty involved in our church community, The Torch Dahlonega, and love it there. 
My husband Andrew is a disabled Marine Corps veteran, and I am a small business owner.  I own and operate Integrity Property Management & Cleaning Services LLC.  We mostly do short term rental properties (managing and/or cleaning), but also recently started with residential cleanings.  
I'm really looking forward to being a part of Leadership Lumpkin to get even more involved in our local community, and to learn all about Lumpkin County, what it has to offer, & making some new friends along the way!

Wes, who was born and raised in Toccoa, Georgia, has lived in Dahlonega since 2004. He is a decorated Marine Corps combat veteran and a 2006 graduate of North Georgia College and State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Wes spent the first decade of his professional career in/around Atlanta in the financial services and investment management industries. Wes is currently involved with a variety of entrepreneurial endeavors including real estate (as both a Realtor with Chestatee Real Estate and as the developer of a short-term rental development - Triple Creek Farms) and education/childcare services (Wes and his wife, Heather, own and operate Dahlonega’s largest childcare center - Dahlonega Country Day Academy). Wes is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing golf, and supporting his children in their many activities.

My name is Sarah Christopher .I became a proud resident of Dahlonega in Feb 2024. Shortly after my arrival, I embraced the role of General Manager at the Holly Theatre, where I am committed to maintaining and enhancing the theatre's strong presence in the community. Before joining the Holly Theatre, I dedicated years to both my family and my career, supporting my husband, an Army veteran, as we raised our four children, two of whom are still attending school in Lumpkin County. Alongside my family commitments, I maintained a successful 20-year career as an event operations manager, working in renowned venues in cities like Seattle and New York City. With a deep appreciation for the arts and a strong connection to the community, I aim to continue the Holly Theatre's tradition of offering high-quality performances and programs that bring people together. My focus is on ensuring that the Holly remains a vibrant and essential part of Dahlonega’s cultural landscape.

Hi, I’m Chelsie Cook and I’ve been with Northeast Georgia Health System for the past 10 years as a Registered Nurse and Practice Manager of both Primary Care and Internal Medicine offices. I am honored for this opportunity to grow and learn through Leadership Lumpkin as I aim to continually refine my professional acumen and best serve our wonderful Lumpkin County community. When I’m not in the office, my family and I enjoy spending time outdoors hiking or in the water with our dog Murphy, who always leads us into the next adventure .

DSH Transportation- a sister company of The Dahlonega Square Hotel & Villas, located steps from the historic Dahlonega Square. Offering top level luxury transportation in North Georgia, we excel in providing our clients with the best customer service and comfort. Enjoy your ride in our custom vehicles with the personal attention of our coachmen trained to accommodate any of your travel needs.  We offer wedding transportation, private and social wine tours, as well as group transportation packages to fit your travel needs. 

My name is Marsha Cornelius (formerly Dickerson), and I’m proud to be born and raised in Dahlonega. After graduating from Lumpkin County High School, I served 10 years in the U.S. Army as an intelligence manager and interrogator. Following my military service, I spent seven years working in the nonprofit sector before shifting into the culinary world in 2024. I’m currently studying to become a pastry chef and co-own two local businesses with my husband, Greg Cornelius: Roundabout Deli and Mosaic Bakery & Pizzeria. Roundabout Deli features gourmet sandwiches and sweet treats, while Mosaic Bakery operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a mission to create job opportunities for individuals who are neurodivergent or living with other disabilities. I'm honored to be part of Leadership Lumpkin and excited to continue serving our community in meaningful ways.

I'm a business consultant with 24 years of experience, including roles as a licensed real estate agent in Alabama and Georgia, former director of operations for a billion-dollar company, and a congressional intern. I specialize in helping companies grow through operational improvements, team development, and strategic turnarounds across HVAC, distribution, and service industries.

Giving back is a core value—I've volunteered with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Special Olympics, Salvation Army, and Toys for Tots. I’ve also run for public office twice, aiming to lead with integrity and make a difference.

I'm happily married to my dream girl Svitlana for 15 years, and we’re raising our son Alex in beautiful Lumpkin County. We love this community and are proud to call it home.

I grew up in Dahlonega and graduated from Lumpkin County High School in 2000’, then attended ABAC in Tifton for a few years and completed my Bachelor’s Degree at the UGA with emphasis on Agricultural Education. Two weeks after graduation, we got married and two weeks later left on an adventurous road trip to live in Montana. I moved back to Dahlonega and taught Agriculture at the local High School. After a year, we decided to have a child, so I stayed at home for the next few years. Five years ago, I started a non-profit called Team Give Back and we have fundraised and donated over $65,000 to families in Dahlonega. I currently work as the Administrative Assistant to the Sheriff. I absolutely love my job and the people I get to work with each day. My husband and I have two girls 13 and 1 and we are expecting our third child in March. 
 

GAIL MARIE DETRAZ
My Agent Gail Marie

I'm  a local Realtor who lives, works and plays right here in Dahlonega. I am excited to be a member of the Chamber and a new recruit in the Leadership Lumpkin class. I love learning more about our beloved Dahlonega and the surrounding areas. My greatest joy is working  with folks, helping them with their real estate needs. I have earned special designations which include Military Relocation Professional (MRP), Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR) and am working on Luxury homes designation.

As a dedicated event planner with a newly established business, Events by H&A, I bring 19 years of experience in the hospitality industry. My journey began in Columbus, Georgia, where I grew up, and since 2011, I have called the metro Atlanta area home. My passion for working with people and contributing to the community has been a significant part of my life, starting with my involvement in philanthropy during high school.

I am thrilled to be a part of the Leadership Lumpkin class of 2025. Dahlonega holds a special place in my heart, a sentiment that has only grown stronger over the years. My future plans include building my home in the area. My family and I are also launching a business that will offer additional lodging for tourists, and an event space for both private, and community focused events in Dahlonega. I am excited to integrate into this wonderful community and contribute to its growth and success.

With over 20 years of experience in natural health, Dr. Melanie Dunlap is an expert in holistic wellness as well as an author, speaker and workshop facilitator. She has reinvented the wellness business by opening Harmony Resources here in Dahlonega. A boutique wellness business that helps women have more energy and less overwhelm, Harmony Resources blends mind, body and spirit techniques for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Hey there, my name is Sam Edwards. I was raised in Buford, GA and then moved to Dahlonega originally to attend UNG. 
I love Dahlonega and Lumpkin County...it's a great place to be and I'm so thankful to be here. It's such a connected community and I'm looking forward to connecting even more! 
In my spare time, I enjoy leading and mentoring middle and high school boys, and going on mission trips! 

After traveling and living in many places, I have found my way home to Dahlonega, Georgia. As program director at Jeremiah's Place transitional housing program, I enjoy working with our residents as they discover a bright new future. What many folks don't know is that I also edit books. I've enjoyed working with several Lumpkin County authors, and I'm so proud of them. What a joy and privilege to play a small role in their creative process. (I've also authored my own books, but I am way more interested in my clients' books!) With two master's degrees, I've also enjoyed teaching in university settings, but most of my adventures nowadays are in the school of life! I've always had a heart for community and look forward to new ways to serve and grow. I live on a family's farm with my adorable Yorkie, who fusses at the chickens, horses, sheep, and donkey that share their farm with us. 

Hi! I'm Lisa Fannon and I have been a REALTOR® for 8 years and am a Lifetime Circle of Excellence Member with the 400 North Assoc of Realtors. Prior to becoming a REALTOR®, I worked in the mortgage industry for 12 years. I currently work with Maximum One Premier Realtors and love helping my clients sell and buy homes in North Atlanta areas, especially the North GA Mountains. My husband, Charles, and I are both Atlanta natives and moved to Dahlonega in 2020. I have been coming to Dahlonega since I was a little girl and we both love the quaint and friendly community Dahlonega offers. I also work part-time at Crown & Bear on the Dahlonega Square and I am a licensed Falconer. You can find me doing falconery exhibitions around the North GA area with Georgia Mountain Falconery which is based in Dahlonega. 

I grew up in Northeast Georgia and worked as a part time electrician, but after graduation, I took a job at Alltel and worked as an installer and trouble-shooter in the Cable TV division. In 2005 and I left Allele tohelp my dad establish a landscape company. I am married to my beautiful wife Kayela. We have three kids, Malachi, Caroline, and Coleman. In 2016, I returned as an installer and trouble shooter in the Cable TV division and I have worked on technology such as Cable Broadband, DLS, Fiber, Mainline and Business Systems.  I became Operations manager of Habersham County in 2019 and in 2021 the Director of Operations. My greatest joy is spending time with my family. Much of my free time is spent at one baseball field or the other with my son, Malachi, who’s 10. Caroline, 8, will be starting soccer, and Coleman, 6, loves the outdoors, camping, and animals. Church is a large part of our lives and serving as a congregation leader is an honor and a blessing.

Originally from Bethlehem, Georgia, Trent Futch has spent the last five years building a life in Lumpkin County. With a bachelor’s degree in Music Education, Trent spent four years teaching band and chorus before making a career change inspired by his passion for serving others.
 
After meeting his wife, Kristin LaCount, whom he has been married to for three years, Trent moved to Lumpkin County and began his career with WoodmenLife. Over the past three years, he has helped families across the community with life insurance, investments, and retirement planning. His dedication and service were recognized when he was honored as Fraternalist of the Year in North Georgia last year.
 
Trent takes pride in helping families prepare for the future while also giving back to the community he loves. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, making and listening to music, and spending quality time with family and friends.

My name is Nate Gardner and I am the Director of Operations at Satellite Industries overseeing both facilities in Dahlonega. I currently live in Cumming, Ga with my wife and daughter. I also have my MBA from the University of North Georgia. 

Hi! My name is Stacie Gerrells, and I am the proud principal of Lumpkin County Elementary School. I am a graduate of our excellent school system and absolutely love Lumpkin County. I have passion for instilling the value of education in children. God has blessed me with a wonderful family. My husband and I have two beautiful daughters, one in college at UNG and the other in high school at LCHS. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family and reading. I am excited about this opportunity to better serve our community. 

Brad is a 2005 graduate of Lumpkin County High School and earned honors upon graduating from North Georgia Technical College in 2007. Beginning a career in the HVAC industry as a Service Technician at Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing, Inc. Brad obtained a State of Georgia Contractors License in 2011 and transitioned into sales and management in 2012. Today Brad manages the Residential & Light Commercial HVAC Install Division, while maintaining EPA, NATE, and BPI certifications. He is graduate of Leadership Hall County (2013-2014), Silver Shovel recipient (2016) and was also recognized by the ACHR News’ 40 under 40 in 2024. Brad is also an active member of Ducks Unlimited Gainesville Chapter. He is a loving husband to Heather and a proud father of two. 

Hi all. I am the pastor of Creekstone Church here in Dahlonega. I have served in that role since this past May. Before that I was the senior pastor of a church in Dacula, Georgia. I was born in Ohio, but grew up in Nashville, Tennessee, and then attended Stanford University before moving back to Nashville to work in management consulting and then as a teacher and coach before getting involved in full-time ministry. I earned my Master of Divinity from Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis. My wife, Dawn, is a teacher, and we have two children: a daughter who is a senior in high school and a son who is in 8th grade. We are excited to be a part of this wonderful and beautiful community.

My name is Kay Hall and I am a 44 year employee of Northeast Georgia Medical Center.  Currently, I am the Director for ED and inpatient areas at the Lumpkin Campus. I was fortunate to be selected to prepare for the opening of our Lumpkin campus back in March of 2019.  Although I was planning to return to Gainesville's ED as manager after opening and stabalization of our Lumpkin campus, I simply could not leave this special place!  Fortunately, I was allowed to transfer permanently.  As anyone knows that talks to me 5 minutes, I love this community, my team at Lumpkin and look forward to continuing my nursing and leadership career in this county! I serve this community as a member of the lunchtime Rotary group and as a boardmember for Community Helping Place.  I look forward to learning so much more about our community we serve and appreciate the opportunity to participate in Leadership Lumpkin!

Dathan Harbert is the General Manager of Consolidated Gold Mines and has been with the company since 2006.  He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of North Georgia and is a Certified Professional Gemologist.  Dathan sits on the Board of Directors for The Gold Rush Days Festival and is blessed to serve a variety of philanthropic programs funded by the event.  He is a student mentor with Lumpkin County Family Connection. He is a 2021 graduate of Leadership Lumpkin County and served as Chair of the LLC class of 2023.  Dathan continues to be involved in LLC and LYL facilitating the communication class day.   In his spare time, Dathan enjoys collecting antiques, learning about local history, traveling and spending time with his wife, Kim. 
 

I'm Jayleen Harrier, the Assistant Nurse Manager of the Medical Surgical unit at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Lumpkin.  I have been a nurse for almost 20 years.  I moved to Lumpkin County with my family in 2016 and have worked for NGHS since.  I have a background in bedside nursing, Quality Management, Neuroscience and Stroke Care, and Leadership.  I have completed two previous leadership programs, and I am honored to have the opportunity to be a part of Leadership Lumpkin County and learn of the many moving parts that make our community so great. 

Hello, I'm Jason Henderson, and Dahlonega, GA, is where I proudly call home. With a background in marketing, I've honed my skills in connecting with people and making a positive impact. Currently, I'm loving my role at Farm Bureau Insurance, where I get to use my expertise to help others secure their futures.

Life isn't just about work for me. I enjoy giving back to the community that has treated me so well. Whether it's rolling up my sleeves for local events or finding ways to lend a hand, community service is a big part of who I am.

When I'm not busy with work or volunteering, you'll often find me outdoors. Hiking, fishing, and photography are my passions. There's something incredibly refreshing about exploring this area's beauty and framing its treasures through the lens of a camera. It's all part of the balanced and fulfilling life I strive to lead here in Dahlonega.

I’m a military veteran with over a decade of leadership experience, having led teams ranging in size from a few individuals to over 60 personnel. I’ve overseen training programs for hundreds of soldiers and guided teams through high-pressure, mission-critical environments that required adaptability, accountability, and clear communication. I’ve spent over 13 years of my career in Georgia, with eight of those years in Dahlonega by the time I retire. I have a strong personal and professional interest in aviation and engineering, which drives much of my continued learning and project work. In addition, I enjoy woodworking, theatre, and creating music—all of which provide balance and creativity in my daily life.

My husband and I moved to Dahlonega in April 2023 from South Forsyth where we raised four children that grew up in the Lambert High School district and where our lives were full of church, sports and YoungLife activities.  When they all left for college we knew it was time for a change and a move out of the chaos of Johns Creek.  We were blessed to find a small farm in Dahlonega where we have two dogs, four chickens and learning to be gardeners.  We have already met some of the kindest neighbors and look forward to learning more about our community and meeting other families.
I am an accountant and work at Striker Marketing with Graham & Sally Edwards, who I've know for many years so working here has made Dahlonega fell like home already.  Looking forward to being a part of the Dahlonega-Lumpkin community for a long time!!

My name is Chris Hill and I am a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator for PruittHealth. I am a graduate of the University of Georgia School of Social Work ('98) and have spent my professional career working in the private non-profit sector and in long-term care working with older and disabled adults.  I became a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator in June, 2015.  My wife and I have two children (18 & 11) and were fortunate enough to be able to move to Dahlonega  in October, 2020 after spending the previous 20 + years in Jackson County Georgia.  I am thankful to be able to live in such a wonderful and unique community and I look forward to expanding my knowledge and contributing to our community through the Leadership Lumpkin County Class of 2023..

 

I was born in Gainesville and moved to Dahlonega in 2016. I graduated with a BA in Studio Art and Ceramics from UNG and earned my RYT500 certificate from North Georgia Yoga Center. I'm a clinical massage therapist of 10 years. My passion is facilitating space for a thriving body and mind, and cultivating a joyous life. In my massage career, I am fascinated by the mind's integral relationship with the body and how our minds shape the life we lead, so I became a Board Certified Hypnotherapist and earned my Master Practitioner Certificate as a Transformational Healing Coach. I opened my office downtown, located in The Heart Studio where I also teach yoga and lead a monthly Women's Healing Circle. As a Master NLP Coach, I help women break toxic relationship cycles, reclaim their personal power, and become their own best partner, even if they're in a relationship.

My name is Sara Howerton.  Our family came to Dahlonega from Alaska in 2019 while my husband was serving in the Army.  We very quickly realized that Dahlonega felt like home and began to make plans to have this be our last assignment with the Army.  I am an Emergency Room Nurse at NGHS Lumpkin.  I truly love my job, my co-workers and caring for our community.  I have two children, Claire (10) and Blake (8).  In my free time, I enjoy reading, hiking, running, and camping with my family.  I look forward to this opportunity to deepen my ties to Dahlonega while participating in Leadership Lumpkin.  

I help businesses grow and people thrive. I utilize experience, DISC and a Maxwell Certification to deliver engaging workshops and keynotes on resilience, leadership, and growth to inspire others to lead authentically and embrace transformation with confidence. 

Mea is a mother of two children and a wife of 20 years and still counting. After High School she went directly into the Army and served in Germany and many other places. After returning home she met her husband and lived in Warm Springs, Ga for 10 years. In 2014 she moved her family to what she now calls home forever, Dahlonega. Mea began working at the Corkscrew Cafe as General Manager. She enjoyed working in the restaurant business for many years. She recently decided it was time for a change and started her company Creative Constellation. 
Creative Constellation can provide web design, Social Media management, marketing, Event Management, and much more.
 

Hi there!  My name is Rebecca Jackson.  I own a Event Planning / Social Media Marketing Company here in Lumpkin County called ?Noëlle Planning & Events.  I am a Wedding Planner by trade but also plan a variety of other events. I am also passionate about assisting small businesses with their Social Media Planning & Execution. 

Additionally, I am proud to work with Greg & Debra Stipe as their Hospitality Manager for Stay Dahlonega.  I love working with this unique & growing company by ensuring our guests have a 5 star experience in Dahlonega. 

Prior to relocating to Lumpkin County I worked for the PGA TOUR for 14 years in Duluth, GA as an Events Director and Sales & Marketing Director. 
 

Leadership Lumpkin County Class of 2014

Joined the military in1984 and took a 19 year break after Desert Storm, I decided to come back, in 2010. Deployed to Afghanistan and Kuwait before being assigned to the 5th Ranger Training Battalion in 2016. I have a son who is an Intelligence Officer in the Air Force, a daughter who is working on her cosmetology degree and plans to stay in Dahlonega, a daughter who is a senior at Lumpkin HS and the current Bn Commander of the JROTC. My youngest son is now a freshman at Lumpkin HS and has Down Syndrome with dreams of meeting the Rock and joining him in Jumanji. My wife of 26 years and I have decided to stay and retire here in Dahlonega based on the community both in town and at the Ranger Camp. I’m currently the training specialist at Camp Merrill, responsible for the Ranger Instructor Training and Education Program (RITEP), required of all new instructors assigned to 5th RTB.

Pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church in Dawsonville; leader of Shift Change, a new worshiping community in Dahlonega for servers, bartenders, and retail service employees on the square; chair of Youth Leadership Dawson.

Charles has been serving as Pastor of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Dahlonega since June 2023. Hailing from northern NJ, he was a computer specialist in IBM mainframe systems admin, capacity & performance, and project mgmt. He met his wife-to-be, Kimberly, in Fort Worth, TX, and God blessed them with four sons: James, Theo, Nathaniel, and Jakob. In 2003, they relocated to Concordia Seminary in St. Louis where he earned a Master of Divinity and in 2007 was called to serve as Pastor of Trinity Lutheran Church, in Cape Coral, FL. He has served as a Boy Scout leader, Asst Director of the Essex NJ chapter of the Harley Owners Group, a DAT Team Leader for the Red Cross, and as a Guardian ad Litem in SW Florida.  Charles, Kim and their three youngest sons reside in Dawsonville. He enjoys creating barbecue in his smoker and is a tireless advocate for authentic New York pizza and Jersey hot dogs.

Hi, I'm Suzy Kelly and from the time we moved to Dahlonega, I have been so interested in LLC. We love this town and the special people that live and visit here. My husband Joel and I have just opened the Bear Necessities Cafe. Before that, I worked in the private sector most recently as Director of Marketing and Communications. I also have a marketing design business and work with several clients in the Atlanta area. We are excited to be a part of this community.
 
If you're home is too quiet OR clean for you, I also work with the National Newfoundland Rescue and can hook you up with a new furry friend. We have three and life is never boring. We also have two adult children, the youngest attending UNG.
 

I'm the co-owner of Sozo Bear Films, a video production company based in Dahlonega. We specialize in documentary-style brand films, narrative commercials, and social media content. I've lived in the area for over a decade and have grown deeply connected to this community. I'm passionate about business leadership, storytelling, and creating memorable marketing pieces that truly reflect each company's brand. Through Sozo Bear, I've had the chance to work with organizations like UNG, Lake Lanier Islands, Discover Dahlonega, Pick Ellijay, Netflix, and LG. I'm excited to be part of Leadership Lumpkin and to connect with others who are committed to the future of our community.

I am a Realtor and work closely with sellers and buyers specializing in residential properties, including homes and land.  As a proud member of NAR (National Association of Realtors), I have earned designations including Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), Seller's Representative Specialist (SRS), and Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE).  
Marketing, communication, and organization are some of my biggest strengths.  I enjoy working with people, especially during pivotal times of their lives-like buying and selling their homes. I live, work and play in Dahlonega and am thrilled to be a part of the Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce!  

After proudly referring to myself as an Army spouse for 27 years, my husband, Bryan, retired from active-duty service in September of 2024, and we now call Dahlonega home.  Throughout his Army career, I volunteered in leadership positions for Family Readiness Groups in various Special Forces units, worked as a preschool teacher or assistant and continue to serve in children and youth ministries in churches.  However, being a home educator to our two adult daughters and teenage son over the last 18 years brings me the most pride. In my spare time I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time with our new granddaughter, Annie. Bryan has shifted from calling me “Household 6” to his “Household CEO”.

Keith has been manufacturing and installing products in Quick Service Restaurants since 1992. He started out helping his uncle every summer and school break. In 1996 he went to work full time for his uncle and in 2001 he and his wife Emily, purchased the business from his uncle. They started installing decor items mainly in McDonald's restaurants and continued to grow allowing them to hire crews to install for them. They moved to Georgia in 2017 and changed the company name to Catapult and continued to buy the products they were installing from a third-party vendor until 2022, then purchased a building in Dahlonega and started making the products themselves. In 2023 they formed a partnership with Ayrsonics USA to manufacture custom acoustic products in the southeast region and now offer a turnkey solution for those products from design to print and fabrication to install.

I am a Physician Practice Manager for Northside Hospital Forsyth and resident of Dahlonega. I have worked for 8 years with Northside as a registered nurse and leader. I came to Northside after 25 years as a healthcare executive with Children's Healthcare of Atlanta and Northeast Georgia Health System. I love being a nurse and a leader as it allows me to help others grow their talents, skills and abilities. 

I am Quinox Lewis, 24 years old, and I moved to Dahlonega in June 2023. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working and living in this wonderful community. With a Bachelor's degree in Marketing, I've been immersed in the marketing industry for the last two years, particularly in hospitality. This has allowed me to meet amazing people and learn about Lumpkin County, further deepening my love for this area. I am passionate about marketing, business, and hospitality, and I’m excited to continue growing in this industry that brings me so much joy!

In 2003, my wife Carol and I, along with our then one-year-old son Harrison, embarked on a new adventure, relocating from tech hub of Palo Alto, California, to the charming landscapes of Georgia. For the past two decades, Braselton has been our home, but in 2023, we embraced a new chapter by moving to the picturesque town of Dahlonega. Harrison is now a Senior Cyber Security major at UNG. Carol and I have taken an exciting leap into the jewelry industry by purchasing Studio Jewelers and its historic building on the square. We are fully immersed in learning the intricacies of this sparkling new venture. We are also proud owners of the Stevi B's Pizza Franchise. I am member of the Dahlonega Sunrise Rotary. Before our move to Georgia, Carol and I were deeply rooted in the high-tech industry.

Carol Lucker is a jewelry store owner, pizza chain operator, and devoted mother. After their son Harrison was born, she and her husband Bill moved from Silicon Valley to Braselton, Georgia, to help launch Stevi B’s Pizza. On impulse, Carol purchased a jewelry store that opened on August 1, 2023. The Lucker's have embraced the local community, and Carol hopes to get involved with charities, seeing Leadership Lumpkin as a great opportunity to start.

Allison Martin is a native of Dahlonega/Lumpkin County.  A graduate of Lumpkin County High School, she attended North Georgia College (now UNG) graduating with a Bachelor of Business Administration.  
Allison's career has been in government serving first at Forsyth County, then Lumpkin County, and now at the City of Dahlonega as City Manager. Allison holds a master certificate in High Performance Leadership from the NACo Professional Development Academy along with several other professional management and leadership certificates. Allison is a member of the Noon Rotary Club and serves as assistant organist for her church.  

I moved to Dahlonega when I was five in 1973. I am a graduate of UGA with a Criminal Justice degree. I enjoy working in Dahlonega and helping kids in any way I can. 

I am a husband, a father, a coach, a teacher, a soldier, a school administrator, and a Commissioner. Serving others is what I enjoy doing and I am grateful for the opportunity to do so.

My name is Justin McCarty and I am currently serving as the HHC Company First Sergeant at Camp Frank D. Merrill. I have been proudly serving in the United States Army for almost 19 years, holding various leadership positions from Fire Team Leader to Company First Sergeant. I have deployed multiple times in support of U.S. interests around the world. Prior to joining the Army, I was a union ironworker with Ironworkers Local 843. I plan to retire here in Dahlonega, but I am originally from Statesville, NC. I am married to Jennifer McCarty, and we have three beautiful daughters who are 12, 16, and 21. When I'm not working, I enjoy hunting, fishing, and watching my daughter play softball, which takes up most of my time. I'm also finishing up my degree in sports management, and once I retire, I would like to work in youth sports.

Dr. Whittney McPherson is a South Alabama native who began her academic journey at the University of Montevallo, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Family and Consumer Sciences Education. She later completed a Master’s Degree in Science Education and a Tier II Leadership Certification at the University of North Georgia, as well as a Specialist Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Piedmont University. In 2023, she earned her Doctorate from the University of South Carolina. Dr. McPherson fell in love with Dahlonega and Lumpkin County during her first visit in 2007 and soon made it her home. She began her career in education at Gainesville High School, where she taught for eleven years before moving into school leadership. From 2017 to 2022, she served as Assistant Principal at Lumpkin County High School. She now serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Lumpkin County Schools, where she continues to support students, staff, and the community she loves.

My name is Mike Miller. My wife Diane and I moved to Dahlonega 2 ½ years ago. Prior to moving, I worked as a Chemical Engineer in the paper industry for approximately 42 years. During that time we lived in a number of states in the southeast (seven to be exact). We have two grown boys. Our youngest is an Electrical Engineer working in the defense industry and our youngest son is in Navy special ops. Since moving, Diane and I have gotten involved in several volunteer organizations and look forward to getting more involved in our forever home of Dahlonega.

I moved to Dahlonega in 2016 and previously owned a business in downtown Dahlonega. I have fond memories of my time being engaged with my business in the community and the Lumpkin County-Dahlonega Chamber. I believe in the importance of being involved with the local Chamber of Commerce. It was an immense support and tremendous resource for my previous business in Dahlonega. I am now an individual member who enjoys the opportunities offered through the various Chamber events held throughout the year. 

Hi there! I'm Teresa Moore. My family and I made the move to Dahlonega in 2005 and decided to put down roots.  Currently, I serve as the Associate Director for Professional and Continuing Education at UNG, a position that fuels my passion for lifelong learning. In my downtime, I love exploring new places, getting lost in a book, and feeding people.

I’m Erika Moore, Curator of Member Experiences at Legendary, where our mission is to help leaders realize their full potential and connect with other ambitious visionaries pursuing excellence. People are my passion. I design experiences that ignite growth, build lasting relationships, and spark transformation. Legendary is rooted in authentic connection—leading with love, listening deeply, and empowering others to embrace their brilliance.

As a native of Dahlonega, being part of LLC is especially meaningful, allowing me to contribute to my community while strengthening ties with the people who make it extraordinary.

I’m a lifelong learner and nature enthusiast who also loves cooking, art, and traveling the world to experience new cultures. For me, leadership is about creating moments where people feel seen, understood, and celebrated—leaving behind a ripple of impact that inspires others to shine even brighter.

I’m a retired Army veteran, former educator, current County Commissioner, and active Realtor®. With over 25 years of military service, I’ve built a reputation for dependability, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.

I began my career at 18 as an Airborne Ranger in the 75th Ranger Regiment, later becoming a top-performing Recruiter and earning a direct commission as an Infantry Officer. I served in Iraq and Afghanistan, finishing as an Inspector General.

After retiring, I led the JROTC program at Lumpkin County High School for over 10 years and I am currently serving in my second term as County Commissioner.

Today, my mission is helping others through real estate. My wife and I enjoy life on our Chestatee River homestead, and I’d be honored to help you find your dream home.

I have been a resident of Lumpkin County for 32 years, raising my three children in this community and school system. I moved from San Diego, California, in 1993, where I was a municipal police officer. After five years at the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol supervisor, I worked with several law enforcement agencies before returning to the Sheriff’s Office three and a half years ago. My experience includes patrol, investigations, training, Internal Affairs, and SWAT. Currently, I serve as the Commander of the Detention Division, overseeing the jail, warrant service, and prisoner transport. I feel blessed to live, work, and engage with our community, and I look forward to connecting with others in Leadership Lumpkin. Thank you, Sheriff Stacy Jarrard, for this opportunity.

I have lived in Dahlonega for 8 years but my family has been here since the 1820s.  I am a RN in the Emergency Department at NGHS Lumpkin.  I am a mother of 4 and a grandmother.  My husband and I enjoy gardening and traveling. 

Marlin Nelson is a Global Sales Executive, International Business Expansion Consultant and entrepreneur with more than 30 years of International Sales and Management  experience. (www.marlinnelson.com). Marlin and his family lived in Europe for 15 years before returning to the Dahlonega as a part time resident in 2002 and a full-time resident since 2019. (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlinnelson/)

In 2020, he founded NG-Benefits LLC ( www.ng-benefits.com ).  NG-Benefits provides assistance  to +65 Seniors, Veterans and those with disabilities  to  identify and take advantage of the many Government and  Medicare  programs that are available, most without any  additional cost.

 

Robb was born and raised in Bellefontaine, Ohio and he enlisted in the US Army and retired in 2010 at the rank of First Sergeant. After retiring from the Army, Robb served as the Campaign Manager and then as a Field Representative for Congressman Lynn Westmoreland of the 3^rd District of Georgia to the United States House of Representatives. He then worked as the Chief Operating Officer of the Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce and now serves as the Executive Director of the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce.
Robb earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from CSU. 

My name is Katie Parr and I serve as an Assistant Principal at Lumpkin County High School. I am in my 12th year in education with the Lumpkin County School System and strive to continue to provide the best opportunities for our staff and students to connect with our incredible community. 

As a Georgia native, my family and I spent many of our vacations and day trips in the north Georgia mountains. Upon my retirement from public education my dream was to live in the mountains. I purchased my home in Dahlonega in 2021 and have since tried to become a part of the community. I’m currently a board member of the Dahlonega Woman’s Club and enjoy the volunteer and other opportunities that being a part of the club offers. Now I look forward to learning even more about my new hometown!

My name is Ashley Peck and I am a native of Lumpkin County. After graduating from North Georgia College I worked with the State of Georgia as a foster care case worker. In 2012 I was offered the position of Elections Supervisor for Lumpkin County. Elections was always been a passion of mine and I found my place serving the citizens of Lumpkin County. In 2021 I became the Special Projects Director for Lumpkin County overseeing Elections, Public Buildings, IT, Wimpy Airport, and Capital Projects. It has been a honor to work and serve in my home town and I look forward to continuing and finding new ways to be involved and serve this community.

Peterson Construction Company LLC is a Dahlonega based, veteran owned licensed and insured General Contractor.  With experience in both residential and commercial construction, we specialize in remodels, renovations, and additions.  We pride ourselves on quality work and great communication with our customers.  We love turning our customers' visions into reality.  Estimates are free, and we love meeting our Dahlonega neighbors!  

I was born in Toccoa, GA then moved to Columbus, GA due to my dad's job.  Later, after marrying Ernest, I moved to Donalsonville, GA where we were partners in a restaurant franchise and I owned a printing business.  We raised our three children there. With my son attending UNG I quickly fell in love with Dahlonega and became excited about returning to my North Georgia roots. I have always been involved in the community that I live in and Dahlonega is no different.  One of my most proud volunteer efforts was organizing an annual 5K breast cancer run in memory of my sister, Joyce.   Our son is presently serving in the Army,  a daughter and her husband live in Lavonia (they are making us grandparents this December) and our other daughter and her husband (a teacher and coach at LCHS) followed us to Dahlonega.  I am excited about this opportunity and serving this amazing community.  

After graduating from West Point, Bill Poole served as an Airborne Ranger Infantry Officer in Berlin Germany, in Vietnam, and as an ROTC Professor of Military Science. After his active duty, he earned a law degree from UGA and an EMBA from GSU. He practiced law as a corporate and tax attorney, specializing in international business transactions in Atlanta for 46 years. In 2012, he began retiring to Dahlonega. Since retiring he is an Owner and has been President of R Ranch, he is the Treasurer of The Holly Theatre, a member and Director of the Dahlonega Sunrise Rotary, Secretary of the US Mountain Ranger Association, and a Member of the Lumpkin County Veterans Affairs Advisory Council. He is married to his high school sweetheart, and they have 2 daughters and 5 wonderful grandchildren.

I'm proud to say I am a Nugget - a Lumpkin County native. I grew up in the Cavender Creek area and near Lumpkin County park, and my family has been in Lumpkin County for generations. My professional background is healthcare, and I currently work as a trainer in Information Technology for Northeast Georgia Health System serving the Emergency Departments/Observation Units, Inpatient Respiratory Therapy, and Long-Term Care. One of my favorite hobbies is freshwater fishkeeping and I have two aquariums with a variety of tropical fish. I also have a German Shephard Dog who is still relatively energetic and playful at the age of 11.

I look forward to the opportunities to meet others who live and work in Dahlonega/Lumpkin County, and to learn more about the inner workings of our city and surrounding area.

I am the owner of the Charles Schwab Retail office in Dawsonville.  My wife and I moved to Dahlonega in 2015 and it was one of the best moves we ever made.  I have been in the Investments industry since 1989 and love that it allows me to help make people's lives better.  I am an active officer/board member in the Dahlonega Sunrise Rotary, The Historic Holly Theatre and Dahlonega Healing Herds, as well as a volunteer at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame (go Chase).  I enjoy golfing, and spending time with my wife and dogs at our home where we have an amazing mountain view (sometimes hanging out at Accent Cellars as well).

Hi! My name is Amanda Rosso, and I grew up in Columbus, GA but I have lived in Dahlonega for eight years.  I work for Pinnacle Bank here in Dahlonega as a Universal Banker and have for two years now.  In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, crafting and painting and being in the outdoors. 

My name is Carrie Dawn Roy.  I live in Yahoola Valley with my amazing husband Matthew. My two boys: Bishop and Nicholas Bryant are graduates from Lumpkin County. I have been a photographer for over thirty years and also work for the Lumpkin County school system.  For the past three years I have worked for Straight Street Ministries in Flowery Branch.  This is a program where we help women that come from human trafficking and prostitution. I love Dahlonega and the people that live here.

I'm Billy Sachse, a tech-savvy entrepreneur and engineer with an eye for promising opportunities. My journey started as a software developer, fueled by a strong background in computer engineering and a natural skill in problem-solving. Seeing the increasing need for enterprise-level cloud-based software, I founded Smart Group Software.

My wife, Cindy Sachse, and I recently purchased the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm and have been doing some great things there!

On my free time, I love spending time with my wife, my dog Sadie, and our kittens (and our adult children when they're available). We enjoy traveling, hiking, and boating.

Hi, I’m Cindy—farmer, butterfly wrangler, wine pourer, and the founder of the Dahlonega Butterfly Farm. I’ve been an entrepreneur most of my life, starting with a swim school and eventually trading swim caps for sunhats when I opened the butterfly farm and later, the Buford Corn Maze.

I love creating spaces where people can connect with nature, learn something new, and maybe sip a little wine while they’re at it. Whether you're wandering through our butterfly house in Dahlonega or getting lost in the cornfields of Buford, my goal is to bring joy, curiosity, and a little magic to your day.

I may wear a lot of hats (farmer, business owner, gnome coordinator…), but they all have one thing in common—making people smile.

My wife, Maureen, (Mo) and I arrived in Dahlonega from Sautee in the spring of 2023.
We completed a carriage house and prepared for the construction of our house.
I am a retired commercial real estate developer. After many years in Boston my long relationship with Home Depot provided the impetus to relocate to GA.
We moved in 1999 to Marietta.
Upon our move to Dahlonega we have been continually amazed at the vibrancy and acceptance in this community.
We have dove into community and church work.
I am tremendously excited about this next phase of our life. Making new friends and building new relationships is what we thrive on.
Bring on Leadership Lumpkin!
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My name is Tom Shandy, a leadership development professional with a background in military service and strategic planning. I specialize in helping organizations and individuals grow through focused leadership programs and clear, actionable strategy. My wife and I are proud to be raising our two daughters here in Lumpkin County, and I’m excited to connect with the Chamber and support the continued success of our local community.

With over 20 years of deep roots in Lumpkin County, I am proud to serve our community as a successful Realtor with United Country Premier Properties. In addition to my career in real estate, I homeschool my three teenage sons (one just graduated!), and I value the flexibility and connection that comes with both roles. My family and I enjoy making the most of North Georgia’s natural beauty through outdoor activities such as backpacking, camping, trail running, and road trips. I love helping people connect - whether to others or to local resources and community. 

I have been in Lumpkin County my whole life. I was born in Macon Ga but moved to Lumpkin when I was only a few weeks old. I am happily married to my fantastic husband, Juan. We have four children and one on the way. We have an 8th grader, a 9th grader, a 10th grader, and a Senior. I have worked with NGPG for 17 years. I have grown up with NGPG starting at the front desk, and now I am the Administrative Director for Urgent Care and Occupational Medicine.
I am looking forward to my time with Leadership Lumpkin. 

Kim Smith is a REALTOR® with Living Down South. Kim was born and raised just outside of Athens. Upon graduation from college, Kim worked for a Top 10 Atlanta CPA firm and as a Financial Controller for a successful golf course developer. A desire to have a career with a more personal and direct impact on clients led Kim to earn her real estate license in 2016. Combining her deep knowledge in the real estate industry with flawless service delivery, competence, and relentless desire for positive results makes Kim the perfect choice for anyone seeking the services of a seasoned real estate professional. Kim is frequently heard by her friends, family and colleagues saying, “Things have a way of working out exactly as they were meant to.”  When not selling real estate, Kim has a passion for serving the community. 

My name is Tammy Soles, I am the Director of Clinical Care & Staff Development for Northeast Ga. Physicians Group. I have been with Northeast Ga. Health Systems for 21 years working both in the inpatient and ambulatory settings. I graduated UNG in 2007 with my Bachelor's degree in Nursing and earned a Master's degree in Nursing from Saint Xavier University in 2015 and certified as a Clinical Nurse Leader. I am a 4th generation "nugget" with deep roots in this community.  I've been married to my husband Jason for 20 years and we have 3 sons: Will, Caleb, and Bo. 

I moved to Lumpkin County in 2001 from a small town in middle Ga called Gray. I am a retired Law Enforcement Officer having worked for the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office and Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. I am an also Veteran of the US Army National Guard. After I retired from Law Enforcement, I started working as a Loss Control Representative for Southern Mutual Church Insurance Company. I have been married to my wife Tammy for 22 years and we have 3 sons. Our oldest is stationed at Ft. Bragg as a Paratrooper, our middle son is a Jr in High School and our youngest is a 1st grader. You can always find us at an Indians Football game on Friday nights, a Jr Indians game on Saturday mornings, or in front of the TV watching the Bulldogs and Falcons. If it’s not football season we are traveling around North Ga wrestling in the winter, playing baseball in the spring and lounging by our pool any chance we get. 

Hi, I'm Rebecca, a CPA and current VP of Finance for a very successful startup that sold for over $200M just two years into operations. I'm passionate about growing businesses through smart financial leadership while understanding the need for the agility and flexibility needed to operate. Outside of work, I enjoy reading and kayaking, which help me unwind and stay balanced. I hail from southern West Virginia but have proudly been a resident of Georgia for over 30 years, with the past two decades in Dahlonega. I love this area and I'm looking forward to learning all the ways I can serve our community.

It was a lovely dinner for two that brought me and my husband Greg to Dahlonega, Georgia. That was about 7 years ago, and today we own StayDahlonega, offering Airbnb Treehouses, Log Cabins and Cottages for vacationers to experience our charming mountain town. I love the design, the marketing of our properties, & sharing our town with potential visitors. I'm serve on the Dahlonega Tourism Board, and also work as a professional actress in the TV/Film industry. Originally from the Chicago area, I'm a graduate of Northwestern University where I studied both Drama and Opera. My acting career placed in LA for 7 busy years before we heard the call of the South. We have two children, Sarah and Walker, and we're grateful for the friendships we have discovered here in N. Georgia. I'm looking forward to learning more about the needs and opportunities in Dahlonega for the betterment of our community. 

A strategic & operational leader experienced building, implementing, and operating high-tech business solutions. Nationally recognized as an expert in establishing a DoD IT Procurement system and CCBs. Architected the 1st cloud network in the military, and as Dpty CIO, the 1st data center consolidation for the Army. Provided acquisition oversight for multi-million-dollar programs: HMMWV, night vision googles, tactical radios, laser training system, mortars, helicopter, and multiple DoD IT systems. Vertical & lateral experience in the Army, Navy, & Air Force, HLS leading joint teams. Written policies and holds certifications in PMP, APMP, ISO, CMMI, Six-Sigma, Balanced Scorecard and TQM. Working for 6+ yrs as a Sr Federal Account Exec at Chameleon, and started Kolibri Strategy, offering business process improvement, capture management and technical writing. Married to LTC(R) Dan Swacina; they have 2 daughters, son-in-law, & 3 grandchildren

Hi, my name is Amber Taylor and my husband and I, along with our three children, moved to Dahlonega in February of 2022. Originally a Georgian, we have lived all over the United States before deciding to move back home and start a business. We own Grace Valley Pest Control. I am a homeschooling mom of 15 years, and in my spare time I write for a local magazine and work with Lane Collins Photography. 

My name is Austin Taylor, I am proud to be a Lumpkin County resident and I own a Connie’s on the square in downtown Dahlonega. I am about to start my last semester at the University of South Carolina, I am a fully online student and I am super excited about graduating in December. My grandparents started Connie’s in 2001 and they have since let me take over the family business and allowed me to continue carrying on the amazing legacy that they created. I am looking forward to being in this class and serving in the community with these incredible people. 

I'm an entomologist and owner of Grace Valley Pest Control in Dahlonega. I have been in the community since 2022. I graduated from the University of Florida in 2010, and I have over 14 years experience in the pest control industry. I have held many roles since graduating. I started out as a Field Supervisor for McCall Service in the North Florida area focusing on lawn care. Then I was the Technical and Training Director for Clegg's Pest Control spanning North Carolina, Virginia, and South Carolina. From there, I was the Technical Director for Plunkett's Pest Control spanning the Midwest. Most recently, I was a Market Technical Director for Rentokil North America for the Midwest and Canada. My roles focused on training, insect identification, regulatory compliance, quality control, and leading other technical experts in pest control. I have been married for over 20 years to my wife, Amber Taylor (graduate of the 2024 LLC class), and have three children.

I am Vanessa Tedder, the owner Cutting Cave Haircuts, specializing in men's and boys' hair, located within Oak Grove Salon Suites. Fifteen years in the industry, I still have an artistic passion for hair and crave the opportunity to learn more. When I'm not standing behind the chair, I enjoy hiking, taking photos of nature and traveling. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn and better serve our community with the Leadership Lumpkin Class of 2024. 

Dr. Tolbert and his wife, Amanda, have two sons, Barrett and Boone, and two daughters, Aaryn Grace and Arden. With a deep passion for chiropractic, and a lot of praying, God has led them to the beautiful mountains of Dahlonega. He opened Gold City Chiropractic in 2022 and is eager to serve this community through proactive, chiropractic care. 

Dr. Tolbert graduated Cum Laude from Sherman College with a Doctor of Chiropractic. He completed the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners requirements, is certified by the state of GA, a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, and is the only Webster practitioner in the Dahlonega/Dawsonville area.  

My husband, Dr. Tolbert, and I own Gold City Chiropractic. I am a graduate of Western Carolina University and received my MBA from the University of Florida. I was a Senior Financial Analyst with The Vanguard Group for 8 years before trading in my suit for scrubs! I love working in my husband’s office – getting to know our patients and watching him help those who thought pain was just a part of life. I also teach natural childbirth classes and am a big advocate of toxin-free living.  

Together, Dr. Tolbert and I have two sons, Barrett and Boone, and a daughter, Aaryn Grace. We are members of the Dahlonega Methodist Church. I am also a member of the Sheriff’s Volunteer Organization, serve on the Board of CHP, and am the Treasurer for Bear on the Square. I don’t have much spare time as a mom of 3 littles, but when I do, I enjoy CrossFit and quilting.

Phil is a leader, author, teacher, and personal pastoral coach who specializes in personal growth, leadership development, and the balance of mind, will, and emotions for optimized personal impact and peacefulness. Drawing on a lifelong career in local church ministry that has transitioned over the last decade into more personal connections, Phil relishes seeing stories of redemption, success, and community impact.
Phil's experience as a volunteer includes community service in disaster management for non-profit organizations, an elected director of the Islamorada (Florida) Chamber of Commerce, Graduate and Board of Directors for Leadership Monroe County (The Florida Keys), and President of Upper Keys Ministerial Association, and international mission consultant at Novo.org.

My wife and I moved to Georgia in 2018, and to Dahlonega in 2021. We absolutely love this town (and state), and we are both active in the community.  I serve as a CASA with Enotah-CASA, and am on the Boards of the Dahlonega Sunrise Rotary Club (Secretary) and the Holly Theater (Volunteer Coordinator). I spent my career in regulatory affairs in various sectors including government, cosmetics, drugs, home care, cleaners, pesticides and paints and coatings. I served as President of the Arkansas Water Pollution Control Association and on the Board of Directors of the Chemical Industry Council of Illinois.  I retired from corporate America in 2018 as Product Stewardship Director at Rust-Oleum Coorporation. I currently consult for a consortium of 11 major consumer products companies.  I enjoy playing violin (55 years), theatre, baseball, history and I collect antique clocks.  We have two beautiful dogs that we adopted from TLC in 2018.

Dr. Jennifer Wade is a career educator in the Lumpkin County School System. Jennifer began her career as a 1st grade educator at Lumpkin County Elementary School.  During her career she has taught gifted and inclusion at the elementary level, taught ELA/special education at Lumpkin County Middle School.  Later, she moved into administration and as of the 2023-2024 school year she is now serving as an Assistant Principal at LCHS.  Jennifer graduated with her undergraduate and Master's Degree in Education from UNG and continued her graduate studies at Lincoln Memorial University having completed her Specialist Degree and Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership. Faith and family are the center of Dr. Wade's focus. This guides her passion to serve students, educators and the community. She resides in Dawson County with her husband, William, and their children Jenna and Walker.

Hello everyone, my name is Gabi and I grew up in Conyers, GA but I have lived in Dahlonega for nine years. I work in the division of student affairs at the University of North Georgia. Serving in Residence Life at UNG is a fun and rewarding job, getting to work and support students in areas of life, growth, and development outside of the classroom. I am thankful for my job within higher education, as it allowed me the blessed opportunity to obtain a graduate degree in public administration. I enjoy working with people and connecting them to resources. In my free time, I enjoy running, baking, trying new coffee shops, and spending time with family and friends! I am excited to learn more about opportunities for service and collaboration to enhance the wellbeing of the community we share.

Operations Manager, Satellite Industries Vacuum Trucks Division.  I have held the position since September 23, 2025. Before moving to Dahlonega, Georgia for work at Satellite I worked for Mack Trucks in Macungie, Pennsylvania for 27 years. Over the years at Mack I have held various positions at Mack. I am a father of 4 great human beings, 2 boy and 2 girls.  My interests are history, mountain biking, and motorcycle riding outside of work. 

Hi! My name is Pennye Westbrook. My husband and I have lived in Dahlonega for nearly 5 years, which we love dearly. I worked in Ob/gyn in Gwinnett County for 20 years before leaving to work for our own company, Pro-GeneX. Our clinical and laboratory services became very successful from our rapid results for Covid-19 testing nationally and locally during the pandemic. Our services have since multiplied and we've become a pillar of our community. I am also proudly an Ordained Minister and perform wedding services throughout North Georgia. I enjoy golf, tennis, kayaking, hiking and just about anything outdoors. Completing the Leadership Lumpkin County (LLC) class has encouraged me to want to pursue greater involvement in our community and I look forward to seeing where those avenues may lead. What a great place we live in! Thank you!

Kerri Whitmire grew up in Dawson County and began her teaching career there. She wanted to give back to the community that helped shape her into the person she became. Mrs. Whitmire earned her teaching degree in Early Childhood Education from North Georgia College. Throughout her teaching career, she attended Piedmont College and North Georgia College and State University receiving both her Master's Degree in Early Education and an Educational Specialist in Curriculum and Instruction and Leadership. Mrs. Whitmire joined the Lumpkin County Tribe in 2017. She loves that she gets to work and live in such a wonderful community.

I am the Budget and Procurement Manager for Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office. I have been with the LCSO for a little over a year. Before that I was owner operator of a small business here in Lumpkin County and I have also held a few positions on the square and loved being part of the everyday square life. I am a wife and mother of 5 and we have loved raising our kids here. I moved from Florida 12 years ago and have enjoyed getting to know all about the area.

I’m Mandy Williams, founder and Executive Director of Northern Star’s Independent Living Program. After graduating from Northern Georgia College and State University (now UNG), my husband and I moved back to Dahlonega. During college, I discovered my passion for working with young people through volunteer work at a foster group home. Earning a master’s degree in counseling allowed me to continue supporting these youth in our community. My husband and I became foster parents, and the journey, though challenging, aligned perfectly with God’s plan for Northern Star. After years of fostering and research, Northern Star was officially established and contracted with the state to serve youth aging out of foster care. I’m mom to 5 amazing kids and “Mama Manday” to many more. I’m excited to engage with our community through Leadership Lumpkin and explore ways to help Lumpkin County thrive.
 

I am a 10 year resident of Dahlonega. My husband and I moved here from San Diego CA after he found Dahlonega on a top 10 list of places to retire. I was known as The HOA Queen for almost 30 years of my work life until I retired last April. I now spend my time fiddling in the vegetable and blueberry garden, assisting the Sheriff’s Volunteer Organization as past President (and as the Easter Bunny for the annual Easter event), the Dahlonega Woman’s Club as 2nd VP and as Assistant Events Coordinator for Chestatee Artists. I enjoy volunteering at Bear on the Square, 6 Gap bike races and Old Fashioned Christmas.  I am looking forward to learning and growing through Leadership Lumpkin. 

I moved to north Georgia and began working with the Lumpkin County Sheriff's Office in June of 2017.  Prior to that I worked for the Henry County Sheriff's Office for 12 years.  In my time in law enforcement, I have worked in several capacities but the majority of my career has been as a School Resource Officer.  I have served as a School Resource Officer for 11 years between the two agencies and continue to do so.  I am currently the Sergeant over the SRO unit for Lumpkin County.