January 2024 Chair's Column

I am writing this as your new GEDA Board of Directors Chairman, a position that I’m honored to hold and excited to begin. I want to recognize and thank my colleague and friend Benjy Thompson who has served as Chairman for the past two years, not because he had to, but because he genuinely wants to see this organization succeed. His continuous leadership while Kevin passed the torch to Grant has been instrumental in ensuring a smooth transition and little disruption to GEDA’s mission and vision over the past year and a half. And speaking of transition, I applaud Grant for his successful first year as GEDA President and CEO. He has and will continue to lead this organization with a renewed sense of passion and direction.
 
2023 was a fantastic year. Georgia saw tremendous success in economic development in every corner of the state, and that credit goes to you all. You are the ones who work day in and day out to help create good jobs for the people in your cities and make a better life for all Georgians. Let’s continue to ensure this year that every person in Georgia, both young and old, has an opportunity to work in the state they call home.
 
January is always an exciting month for GEDA as the Legislative Session begins. It is extremely important that we focus on what is being considered under the gold dome and how certain legislative efforts can impact economic development. I encourage you to make sure that you keep strong relationships with your state elected officials. Please continue to interact with them during this critical time of the year and that you reach out to them should you see legislative bills that impact our ability to practice our professions.  
 
So, here’s to a successful year ahead. I look forward to seeing you all this year and continuing to make great strides for Georgia’s economic development alongside all of you who are a part of GEDA.
 
Happy New Year! 
 
Trip