Governor Zell Miller Public Policy Leadership Award
The Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA) believes that sound, progressive public policy is essential for sustaining quality economic development in Georgia. In consideration of his outstanding leadership as Governor, and his public service to Georgia for many years prior to becoming Governor, GEDA believes that Governor Zell Miller has been a model for the kind of public policy leadership that Georgia needs for its future. The economic success that Georgia has enjoyed these past several years can be traced to the policies and programs Governor Miller has championed as Georgia's chief economic developer.
GEDA has established an award for leadership in economic development policy. With Governor Miller's consent, GEDA has named that award The Governor Zell Miller Public Policy Leadership Award, which will be presented during the GEDA Annual Conference awards banquet in September.
It is the intent of GEDA that this award will serve to encourage many Georgians to exert strong leadership in economic development public policy. It is, therefore, anticipated that this will be an annual award; however, to assure the highest possible qualifications and most exemplary recipients, the GEDA Board of Directors may elect not to present this very special award every year.
A distinctive commemorative piece to represent the award is being designed for presentation to the individual recipient. In addition, the name of each recipient will be added to a permanent plaque displayed at the GEDA office containing the names of all recipients.
Recipients must have clearly demonstrated by their work an enduring commitment, dedication, and leadership in advocating and implementing public policies that are essential for sustained quality economic development in Georgia. Recipients may be either a) elected or appointed public officials, b) private individuals serving in significant positions of public trust, or c) individuals working in public-private partnerships. A recipient need not be a GEDA member.
Recipients:
| Senator Jack Hill | 2007 |
| Phil Jacobs | 2006 |
| Dr. Ken Breeden | 2004 |
| Harold Reheis | 2003 |
| Lindsay Thomas | 2002 |
| Max Lockwood | 2001 |
| A. W. (Bill) Dahlberg | 2000 |
| Ray Weeks | 1999 |