Andrea Ruef

Andrea Ruef is a native of Innsbruck, Austria.

Ms. Ruef’s business background in the U.S. began 1997 in Atlanta at Cosco International, Inc., a manufacturerand exporter of private label products catering to Home Shopping Network channels in the US and Europe. Ms. Ruef served as Vice President of Marketing and COO until she left the company in 2004.

Ms. Ruef established her first U.S.-based company, European News, LLC “The Transatlantic Journal” (TAJ), in 1999. TAJ began with a circulation of 1,800 and was published in German and English on a bi-monthly schedule. In this role she developed relationships with the leadership in communities across Georgia and neighboring States and became familiar with those communities’ cultural, educational and economic highlights.

In 2005, Ms. Ruef started her own consulting firm specializing in strategic consulting, relocation and business plans. For several years, she also worked with InsiderAdvantage, founded by nationally syndicated columnist Matt Towery.

Ms. Ruef 25+ years of business expertise and background in the product and service arena provides a perfect platform to facilitate connections between businesses and their needs. She is highly skilled at developing, implementing and managing strategies and well known for her ability to bring diverse cultures and interests together in successfully accomplishing goals and driving issues.

Ms. Ruef currently chairs the Youth Challenge Academy Foundation, Inc. She also serves on the Georgia National Guard Family Support Foundation Board and is involved in numerous other charitable organizations. Ms. Ruef participated in the 2005 Honorary Commanders Leadership program, a joint venture pairing community leaders between the Cobb Chamber of Commerce and Dobbins Air Force Base. Ms. Ruef is also a graduate of the Regional Leadership Institute (RLI) class of 2005 and Leadership Cobb Program, class of 2009.

Email: andrearuef@gmail.com

Cell: 678.665.6320

Wendell McNeal

McNeal is a lifelong Georgian, having spent his childhood in Wilkinson County, graduated high school from Georgia Military College and attended South Georgia Technical College. As a young man, McNeal called Milledgeville home and began his real estate investment career there before going on to establish and operate a chain of multi-store franchise in the Atlanta metro area. In 2009, he sold his business to a publicly-traded company and retired from that industry. These days, McNeal enjoys a busy schedule working and growing his real estate holding company while also serving in many community and civic activities.

As a young man, McNeal developed an avid interest in history and politics. This interest has led to McNeal’s actively serving as campaign manager and treasurer for several public officials while also being a member of the Executive Board of the Morgan County Republican Party. Additionally, he serves as a Morgan County Sheriff’s Office Reserve Deputy and is a member of Kiwanis Club. Most recently, McNeal has been chosen to serve as a Delegate representing Georgia at the Republican National Convention in 2020.

McNeal’s interest in helping Georgia’s youth was borne out of personal life experience, specifically the loss of his father when McNeal was ten years old. As a result, McNeal has been closely connected with the Georgia National Guard Youth Challenge Academy for over a decade and serves as Treasurer and Executive Board Member of the Georgia Youth Challenge Academy Foundation. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the North Central Georgia Boys & Girls Club.

In 2003, McNeal was nominated by a State Senator to the State Selection Board of Youth Challenge Academy, where he served for eight years. He was later nominated to serve as Treasurer of the Youth Challenge Academy Foundation Board where he helps oversee the financial operations of the organization. As a young man, McNeal experienced the challenges of a family tragedy resulting in the death of his father, his mother’s impairment and a severe personal injury, all of which has given him a unique understanding of the work that Youth Challenge does for at-risk youth. He loves that Youth Challenge offers young people a second chance, much like he himself received.

One particular aspect of being part of the Youth Challenge family that McNeal enjoys is attending the Youth Challenge graduation ceremonies and helping officiate the scholarship awards program for students’ post-secondary educations.

Email: w.mcneal@mcnealgp.com

Cell: 678.618.7217

Joe Reitman

Admitted to Georgia Bar 1991. Attorney for Watkinsville, Monticello, Newborn, Union Point, North High Shoals and Bishop; and individuals, companies, hospitality industry clients, and non-profits. We practice law by the Golden Rule.
Education: Bucknell University (Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Political Science Minor, 1988). University of Georgia School of Law (Juris Doctor, 1991). Georgia ARES Certified (2015). Graduate of Living Waters School of Biblical Evangelism (2016). Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief Certified (2016, Chaplaincy Certification 2017).
Memberships / Activities: Chair-Elect, Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, Inc. Member of Legal Advisory Council of National Institute of Family & Life Advocates. Chaplain’s Assistant, Georgia State Defense Force (Georgia Department of Defense). Interim Secretary, Youth Challenge Academy Foundation Inc. (supports National Guard Youth ChalleNGe Program Cadets). Madison Kiwanis Club (Two Time Past President). Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief Chaplain.

I abide by the admonitions in Butts v. State, 273 Ga. 760, 772 (2001): “The practice of law is an honorable profession that requires a high standard of conduct of its members. It is a high calling where competence, civility, community service, and public service are integral parts of the professional standards.” I aspire to the “Lawyer’s Creed and Aspirational Statement on Professionalism,” which states in part: “To my clients, I offer faithfulness, competence, diligence, and good judgment. I will strive to represent you as I would want to be represented and to be worthy of your trust.”

Email: jr@lralaw.com

Cell: 706.206.0073

Mitchell Bush

R. Mitchell Bush is a native Georgian from East Dublin who is married to Leslie Burkett Bush of Clover, SC. Mitchell is a 1982 graduate of Georgia Southern University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education. He and Leslie have lived in Savannah since 1993 and are active in their community along with their son, Wesley and his wife, Jolly.  Mitchell is President of R.M. Bush & Company, established in 1993.  He is a member of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors and of the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce.  Mitchell serves as an Executive Board Member of Georgia Youth Challenge Academy Foundation, President of USO Savannah Committee, Vice Chairman of USO of Georgia, member of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 10-2, member of Georgia State Board of Managers for the Sons of the Revolution, and Vice President of Central Park Property Owners Association.  He is General President Emeritus of the General Society of the Sons of the Revolution.  He is a member and past President of the Edward Telfair Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution.  Mitchell is a member of the Florida Sons of the Revolution, Sons of Confederate Veterans, First Families of Georgia, Military Order of the Stars and Bars, Society of the War of 1812 (in Georgia and Florida), National Gavel Society, Hereditary Society Community of the United States, Savannah Yacht Club, Chatham Club, Chatham County Republican Party, Georgia Southern Alumni Association, and Honorary Alumni Member of Omicron Delta Kappa Society. He is a former President of the Savannah Council of Navy League of the United States.

Mitchell has served as President of GSU Alumni/Savannah Chapter, Chair of the Military Affairs Council of Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce, Chair of Islands Republican Club, National Treasurer of GSU Alumni Association, President of Savannah Council #98 of Navy League of the United States, Public Affairs Officer of U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Division 10, President of Savannah-Southern Business Group, Board Member of Georgia Southern University Southern Boosters, and Chairman of Chatham County Board of Ethics.  He has been a member of Savannah Technical College Board of Trustees, Savannah Chamber of Commerce Board, American Youth Baseball Academy, Georgia Southern University Greek Housing Authority, Royce Learning Center Board of Trustees, Island Center for Logical Growth, Association of the United States Army, Sigma Pi Alumni Association/Gamma Tau Chapter, AEFES Board of American Red Cross, and National Guard Association.

Mitchell has been the recipient of many awards, including Nationwide Insurance Community Service Award (Southern States Region-eight times since 1999), Nationwide Insurance Community Service District Award (15 times since 1998), USO of Georgia Leadership Award, Civilian Aide to Georgia Adjutant General, Patrick Henry Award from National Guard Association of the U.S. (twice), Woodman of the World Outstanding Citizen Award, Savannah Morning News People of Impact, Georgia Commendation Medal presented by State of Georgia Department of Defense, Citizen of the Year Award from Military Affairs Council, Georgia Insurance Commissioner “Build a Better Georgia” Award, Gamma Tau/Sigma Pi’s Alumnus of the Year Award, and Georgia Southern University Alumnus of the Year/Private Enterprise.  He has also been recognized by Nationwide Insurance as:  Community Service Agent of the Year in Georgia, Presidents Conference, Champions Club, Leadership Agent, Chairman’s Life Council, Life Council, Auto Council, and Million Dollar Roundtable Member (twice).

Mitchell is interested in military issues, civic issues, fishing, boating, amateur radio and history.  He holds these accreditations:  FLMI, LUTCF, and ACS.

Email: mitchell@thebushagency.com

Cell: 912.667.6242

Mary Lou Austin

Mary Lou Austin serves as the President and CEO of USO of Georgia. Austin overseas three physical locations in Georgia, as well as community engagement and outreach activities of the USO throughout the state. She has served with the USO organization both stateside and overseas. USO positions included Director of Programs, Volunteers & Financial Development at USO Centers & USO Headquarters. Mrs. Austin has also served as a Consultant to the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services (DACOWITS) and USO Inc. She has traveled on their behalf to the Middle East, Far East & Central America.

Awards include The Department of Defense Medal for Distinguished Public Service, The General Creighton L. Abrams Medal, The United Way Achievement Award, Department of the Army Commanders Award for Public Service (2). Department of The Army Civilian Service Award, US Congressional Special Recognition Certificate.

She holds a BA Degree from Misericordia University and a MPA from Central Michigan University. Graduate of Professional Seminars Emory University & IBM Headquarters, NY. An Alumni of Leadership Atlanta she is active in Civic, Military, and Veterans Organizations. She is married to a Retired Army Officer (Vietnam Veteran)

Email: austin4uso@aol.com

Cell: 678.764.1420

Willard D. “Bill” Stembridge, Jr.

Bill Stembridge is a native of Moultrie, Georgia. He attended Mercer University in Macon, Georgia, and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Mercer in June 1968. Following Active Duty in the U.S. Army Reserve, he returned to Mercer where he served as Assistant Registrar and later Registrar for 17 years. In 1986 he began work as a District Representative for U.S. Congressman Dr. J. Roy Rowland. When Dr. Rowland retired from Congress in 1995 Bill began working for U.S. Congressman and later U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss. He retired in 2015 when Senator Chambliss did not seek reelection. In addition to the Board of Directors of the Youth Challenge Academy Foundations Board of Directors, Bill also serves on the Board of Governors of the Museum of Aviation at Robins Air Force Base and the Board of Directors of the Mercer University Press.

Email: billstembridge@hotmail.com

Cell: 478.718.9342

Rep. Brian Prince

Brian serves the citizens of House District 127. HD 127 is comprised of constituents living in Richmond and Jefferson counties. Brian currently serves as secretary on the Defense and Veteran’s Affairs Committee. He is a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government, as well as a member of the Motor Vehicles, Transportation and Special Rules committees. Brian is a retired US Army signal officer and now works as chief operations officer of Brock’s Driver Education School Inc. in Augusta. Brian received a Bachelor’s of Science in Zoology from Fort Valley State University and a Master’s of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University. Brian is married to the former Lori P. Head of Griffin, Georgia, and has four children, Lauren, Phillip, Lydia and Leah.

Email: brian.prince@house.ga.gov

Cell: 706.831.3332

Rep. Andrew Welch

On November 2, 2010, the citizens of the 110th House District elected Republican Andy Welch to the Georgia House of Representatives. Rep. Welch is married to Cara Welch and is a proud father of three children. He is an active member of the McDonough Presbyterian Church, serving on the church’s Endowment Committee. He is a partner in Henry County’s oldest law firms, Smith Welch and Brittain, LLP, and is a native of Henry County.

Although Andy lives and works in Henry County, his family roots in Henry and Butts counties run deep. The Welch family were early settlers of the Sandy Ridge area of Henry County, along Keys Ferry Road. His family maintains his Grandmother Cola Pope Welch’s home and farm along the Ocmulgee River in Cork, Butts County.

Rep. Welch has a long history of commitment to his community, beginning with service projects as an eagle scout and most recently his service as the 2010 chairman of the Henry County Chamber of Commerce. Before becoming chairman, he served four years on the Chamber’s Transportation Committee, three years of which as chairman. During his tenure, the committee spearheaded the business community’s push for creation and adoption of an award winning 2007 Henry County Comprehensive Transportation Plan.

Through 2008 and 2009, Andy worked on the Joint Henry County/Cities Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy. He assisted in the identification of infrastructure improvements needed in Henry County to spur economic development. To begin implementation of the strategy, he assembled a committee of public and private stakeholders to examine the need for and location of an industrial interchange on 1-75 in Henry County to relieve congestion at 1-75 exit 216 (GA Hwy 155). As the 2010 chairman of the Chamber, Andy has focused the Chamber’s attention on education, specifically on developing strategies to achieve the Board of Education’s goal of 100 percent high school graduation by 2022.
Rep. Welch’s record of service has not been limited to Georgia. While a student at Presbyterian College, he volunteered for two faith-based service missions to re-build homes ravaged by Hurricane Andrew. Immediately following college, Andy served an extended tour with the US Peace Corps in Ghana, West Africa. There he taught high school sciences, coached soccer and led the fund-raising and construction of a three-classroom schoolhouse to replace a grass-mat structure. Andy also served on former Congressman Lynn Westmoreland’s Transportation and Aviation Advisory Council and United Community Bank’s Henry-Rockdale Advisory Board.

Rep. Welch views his service to the constituents of the 110th District as an honor and a privilege.

Email: andy.welch@house.ga.gov

Cell: 678.583.4888

Al Williams

Al Williams can be described as a devoted family man, dedicated church leader, military veteran, businessman, and State Representative of House District 165. A friend of hard-working people in Georgia, Al Williams was sworn in among the 52 freshmen members of the 180-member House of Representatives on January 13, 2003. He became the first African American from his home county to be elected state representative since Reconstruction and only the second to hold a legislative seat from the tri-county area of Glynn, Liberty, and McIntosh since that time. He has recently been elected to his second term in the state House. Al Williams is an active member of one of the largest classes of incoming state legislators in the state’s history. Along with his House Committee appointments, which include Economic Development and Tourism, State Institutions and Property and Game, Fish and Parks (for which he formerly served as Secretary), Al was also appointed chairman of the Industry and Economic Development Committee of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus. His active memberships also include the National Association of State Legislators, the National Association of Black State Legislators, and the Georgia Association of Black Elected Officials. Exemplifying the best qualities of leadership and public service, Al is deeply rooted in the community which he represents.

Born in Liberty County, Georgia to the late Alexander and Carrie Williams, he was reared along with three siblings, including a twin sister, in Midway, Georgia, in a family with strong church and community ties. Al’s father was employed as a laborer while his mother taught in the Liberty County School System. His grandfather, the late Rev. W. C. Shipman, was the first black registered voter and the first member of the NAACP in Liberty County. Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, Al became involved in politics at an early age. He helped organize the Young Democrats of Georgia, serving as its first black National Committeeman. He served as a political advisor and session aide to Zell Miller and to the late Senator Glenn Bryant. Al has served on the Board of Directors for the Liberty County United Way and on the Citizens Advisory Committee for Georgia Power. He currently serves on the Liberty County Development Authority and the Dorchester Improvement Association. He is a member of the Georgia Historical Society, Liberty County Chamber of Commerce, and the NAACP. Al is also on the Board of Directors, Coastal Area Support Team (CAST). A lifelong Democrat with extensive experience in national, state, and local campaigns, he is a member of the Liberty County

Democratic Committee. Al is the president of Techno Systems South, a transportation services firm headquartered in Hinesville, Georgia which provides transportation for “welfare-to-work” participants. Techno Systems also served as the broker for non-emergency transportation in Atlanta from 1997-
2000, brokering over 50,000 trips per month. A dedicated Christian, Al serves as chairman of the Deacon Board of the Calvary Baptist Church of Richmond Hill and president of the Laymen, Zion Missionary Baptist Association. He is past president of Laymen of the New Era Baptist Convention. Al considers his pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2000 as one of the most rewarding experiences in his life. Al’s numerous awards and honors include the Liberty County NAACP Ralph Quarterman Award and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Award presented at a National Convention in Chicago.

His many accomplishments have earned him recognition in the nationally acclaimed magazine, Black Enterprise, as well as in the Atlanta Tribune. Al was educated in the Liberty County Public School System, later studying at Saint Leo University in Florida and John Marshall Law School. He proudly served his country in Vietnam. Al and his wife, Olivia, reside in Midway with the youngest of their children. You are Visitor # Updated Wednesday, April 05, 2006, 12:40:42 Copyright 2004 by Georgia Informer, Inc.

P.O. Box 564,

Macon, GA 31201

Email: georgiainformer@prodigy.net

Cell: 478-745-7265

Col (Ret) Dan Zachman

Dan Zachman retired from the USAF and Georgia National Guard after 33 years of service. Originally from Milwaukee, Dan moved to Marietta, GA as a teenager, and received his undergraduate degree from GA State University, and was commissioned into the Air Force through the ROTC program at GA Tech. Dan rose through a successful 33 year career to achieve the rank of Colonel in charge of 1,300 personnel in the Georgia Air National Guard. With experience and background as a logistics and aircraft maintenance officer, Dan’s assignments included multiple deployments to the Middle East, Africa, Germany and Eastern Europe. In addition to serving on the Youth Challenge Academy Foundation Board, Dan serves on the Board of the Cobb Collaborative and the Georgia Veterans Service Foundation, and he is active in other veterans and civic organizations including the American Legion, Kiwanis and the Cobb County Honorary Commanders Program.

Dan and his wife Kim, live in Roswell, Ga, and have two daughters attending college.

Email: zster99@gmail.com

Cell: 478.397.6118

MG (Ret) David R. Bockel

Major General David R. Bockel retired from the Army Reserve on June 6, 2003.  He assumed his previous position as Commanding General, 90th Regional Support Command in June 1999.  His prior assignments, held concurrently, were Deputy Commanding General (IMA) of United States Army Reserve Command and Commander, US Army Reserve Readiness Command.  Before that, he was with the 311th Theater Signal Command, Fort Meade, Maryland where he served as Deputy Commanding General.  During his 37-year career, he first served in Vietnam in 1967 with units from the 25th Infantry Division and the 199th Infantry Brigade.  Upon his return he served at Redstone Arsenal, AL, as the Assistant Material Readiness Officer, Headquarters & Headquarters Company, School Brigade, U.S. Army Missile & Munitions Center & School.  The remainder of MG Bockel’s assignments have been with the USAR.  From 1968 to 1971, he served with the 303rd Quartermaster Company, Rome, GA.  From 1971 to 1975 he served as the Supply Staff Officer with the Headquarters, 81st Army Reserve Command in Atlanta.  His next assignment was as Headquarters Commandant, 81st ARCOM.  He was selected for the TOPSTAR Program in 1977 and was assigned as the Mobilization Designee with the Chief of Public Affairs, Secretary of the Army, Washington, D.C.  He then returned to Headquarters, 81st Army Reserve Command where he served as Supply Staff Officer until 1982.  Later he became the Chief, Maintenance Division with the 81st Army Reserve Command..  In 1984 he assumed command of the 352nd Maintenance Battalion (GS) in Macon, GA, commanding that battalion for two years.  In 1986 he was assigned back to the 81st ARCOM where he served as the Chief, Unit Training Division.  From 1987 to 1990, he was the Commandant, 3283rd U.S. Army Reserve Forces School in, Atlanta.  From there he assumed command of the 449th Area Support Group at Fort Gillem, GA, serving as its commander from August 1990 to January 1993.  He then returned to the 81st Army Reserve Command where he served as the Deputy Chief of Staff, Training and then as the Chief of Staff until May 1995.   In May, 1995, he was selected to be the Deputy Commander of the newly formed 311th Theater Signal Command at Fort Meade, Maryland.  In May 1997 he was selected to become the Deputy Commanding General (IMA) of the United States Army Reserve Command in Atlanta and Commanding General of the United States Army Reserve Readiness Command at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.  In May 1999, he was selected to command the 90th Regional Support Command in Little Rock, Arkansas with responsibilities for Army Reserve units in Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma and New Mexico.   In May 2000, he was appointed to serve on the Army Reserve Forces Policy Committee at the Pentagon, and in December 2001 he was appointed as Chairman of the Army Reserve Forces Policy Committee.

DECORATIONS AND AWARDS:  Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal with fourth oak leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal with second oak leaf cluster, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with fourth oak leaf cluster, Vietnam Service Medal with second Bronze Service Star, National Defense Service Medal with Star (second award), Armed Forces Reserve Medal with Hourglass Device, Army Service Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with Palm Unit Citation Badge, Republic of Vietnam Civil Action Medal with Palm Unit Citation Badge, Overseas Training Ribbon, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device.

CIVILIAN OCCUPATION:  Retired December 31, 2014.  Last position was Veterans Program Liaison – Governor’s Office of Workforce Development, Georgia Department of Economic Development, Atlanta, Georgia.  Prior to that he was Executive Director of the Reserve Officers Association in Washington. Prior to moving from Atlanta to Washington in 2003, the Bockel’s owned an advertising agency, Bockel & Company, in Atlanta for 32 years.

PERSONAL DATA: Born in Dallas, Texas on 26 September 1944.  General Bockel is married to the former Jane Carrison of Jacksonville, Florida.  They have two children Sarah and David Jr., and four grandchildren.

Email: dbockel@att.net

Cell: 404.317.0385

Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Grandvial Quick

A native of Fort Benning, Georgia, Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Quick has had a long and distinguished career. He attended Xavier University of Louisiana where he received a BA degree in Political Science and was a distinguished military graduate of the Loyola ROTC program. He later received a MA degree in Business Management from Central Michigan University. Lieutenant Colonel (retired) Quick served 20 years on active duty with the U.S. Army.

Upon retiring, Lieutenant Colonel Quick worked in the field of education. He is a former instructor and administrator in the JROTC Department of Atlanta Public Schools District and Gwinnett County Public Schools.

Lieutenant Colonel Quick and his wife have two children and two grandchildren. He was selected as an Outstanding Young Man of America and has served as a member of the selection committee for Youth Challenge. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and Greenforest Community Baptist Church.

John E. Parkerson, Jr

John Parkerson possesses (i) a deep understanding of the international business environment, including political, cultural, and other risks inherent in conducting business globally; (ii) years of hands-on experience as an in-house corporate attorney, allowing him to understand clients’ legal needs from the inside; and (iii) a mature, practical approach to legal counseling that matches clients’ international business needs to his legal expertise.
Professional Summary

Mr. Parkerson is an attorney in the international practice group at Hall Booth Smith. His practice focuses on general corporate counseling, particularly with respect to international business and related commercial transactions (distribution, agency, licensing, strategic alliances, JVs); international compliance (foreign corruption, export controls); laws applicable to import/export; international aviation law; sustainable airport area development; and governmental affairs. Parkerson’s expertise also supports his clients’ other legal needs as they enter foreign or local markets, whether foreign labor/employment, local contract issues, or regulatory/permit requirements. Prior to joining Hall Booth Smith in February 2012, Parkerson was a Partner at FisherBroyles LLP. He is admitted to practice law before all Georgia courts and the U.S. Supreme Court.

From 1993 until 2008, Parkerson was part of the international practice group within Delta Air Lines’ Law Department, advising senior management regarding outbound legal issues ranging from foreign labor and employment issues to international aviation liability and anti-trust, as well as foreign corporate, regulatory, marketing and related business transactions. Before joining Delta in 1993, Parkerson served as an Army Judge Advocate General (“JAG”) officer in a variety of international law military assignments, including Chief of the International Law Branch in the Office of The Judge Advocate General, The Pentagon; U.S. Forces Europe legal liaison at the U.S. Embassy, Bonn; and international legal advisor at the U.S. Army’s European headquarters in Heidelberg.

Parkerson also is an educator: he has been an adjunct professor of Contracts Drafting at Emory’s School of Law for the past seven years; and he recently taught an MBA International Practicum-Hungary, at Georgia Institute of Technology. He formerly was Clayton State University’s Director of International Programs and Assistant Professor of International Business/Global Logistics. During his Army career, Parkerson served three years as Associate Professor of Law at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

In 2007, the Government of Hungary appointed Mr. Parkerson as its Honorary Consul General and Foreign Trade Counselor. In that role, Parkerson represents Hungary’s consular and trade interests in Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama; and he serves on the Board of the Atlanta Consular Corps as its Secretary. In addition, Parkerson also holds leadership roles in the numerous civic and charitable organizations that are listed on the following page.
Education

  • George Washington University, LL.M., highest honors, International & Comparative Law (1990)
  • Emory University, J.D., International Studies Award; President, International Law Society (1978)
  • Boston University, M.A., International Relations (1985)
  • Emory University, M.A., History (Diplomatic) (1975)
  • Emory University, B.A., magna cum laude, History (1974)
  • U.S. Army Command & General Staff College, honor graduate (1991)
  • The Hague Academy of International Law, course in Public International Law, The Hague, The Netherlands (1982)

Professional and Service Endeavors – Present

  • Honorary Consul General of Hungary (Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama) and Honorary Foreign Economic Counselor (2007-present); Board Member-Secretary, Atlanta Consular Corps (2013-present)
  • Board Member and Past President, World Trade Center Atlanta (2011-present)
  • Board Member, Atlanta Council on International Relations (2015-present)
  • Founding Board Member-Treasurer and Legal Counsel, The Global Soap Project, Inc. (2009-2013); Advisory Board (2013-present)
  • Board Member-Secretary, The Tropics Foundation/Tropical Agricultural Research and Higher Education Center (2005-present)
  • Trustee, Georgia Council for International Visitors (2005-2011, 2012-present)
  • Board Member, Arts Clayton (2010-present)
  • Board of Councilors, The Carter Center (2007-present)
  • Member, U.S. Global Leadership Coalition – Georgia Advisory Committee (2014-present)
  • Member, Global Partners Council of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce (2007-present)
  • Member, Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce (2017-present)
  • Advisory Board, Atlantic Institute (2013-present)
  • International Advisory Board, Faculty of Business & Economics, University of Pannonia, Veszprem, Hungary (2011-present)

Professional and Service Endeavors – Past

  • Board of Trustees Member and Past Chair, Clayton State University Foundation (2001-2014)
  • Chair, International Transactions Section, Atlanta Bar Association (2005-2007)
  • Chair, International Promotions Council, Clayton County Chamber of Commerce (1997-2002)
  • Board Member, Georgia State University’s Center for Global Business Leadership (2004-2008)
  • Board Member, International Law Section, State Bar of Georgia (2006-2009)
  • Advisory Board, Istanbul Center of Atlanta (2008-2011); Turkish American Chamber of Commerce (2011- 2013)
  • Member, Georgia Roundtable of International Professionals (2009-2010)
  • Member, Section of International Law and Practice, American Bar Association (1978-2008)
  • Member, Advisory Board, ABA Rule of Law Initiative, Central Europe/Eurasia–Middle East/North Africa (2006-2009)
  • Member, Executive Committee, Congress of Latin American & Caribbean Air Cargo Agents (2002)
  • Recipient, “International Business Person of the Year,” Clayton County Chamber of Commerce (2001)
  • Finalist, “Governor’s International Award for Individual of the Year,” World Trade Center Atlanta/ Atlanta Business Chronicle (2006 and 2014)

Email: jparkerson@hallboothsmith.com

Cell: 404.954.6970

Franklin Scott Orr

Education and Professional Certifications

Georgia Tech

  • Bachelor of Electrical Engineering (Co-op)                           June 1978
  • Registered Professional Engineer – GA EE 14696

Professional Experience

  • Georgia Power Company                          1982 – Current
  • Federal Legislative Affairs Manager          2002 – Current

Managing and leading Federal Government Relations activities with Georgia’s Federal delegation, educating and advocating for key issues for Georgia Power.  Developing and maintaining strong relations with U.S. House and Senate members and staff, providing counsel and direction, and personally mentoring newer staffers on the Hill to lend them the benefit of my lengthy experience in my role and help them grow in their roles. In addition to legislative issues, extensive expertise in working with members and their teams on their re-election efforts, including assistance in raising the campaign funds and supporting events necessary to deliver their message to voters.

  • 1982-2002: Numerous managerial positions within Georgia Power

Community Leadership

  • Mentor Jacket – serving as an advisor and mentor to current Georgia Tech students
  • Southern Polytechnic State University Foundation Board of Directors (until KSU merger)
  • New Hope Enterprises – former Board of Directors
  • Past Chairman – Athens Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Past Chairman – Classic City Kiwanis Club
  • Past Board Member – United Way of Northeast Georgia
  • Past Board Member – Athens YWCO
  • Past Board Member – Athens Regional Medical Center Foundation
  • Past Board Member – Foundation for Excellence in Public Education, Athens

Email: fsorr@southernco.com

Cell: 770.601.4330

D. Andrew Dill

Director, Government Relations
Lockheed Martin

 

Andrew represents Lockheed Martin Aeronautics to federal, state, and local officials across the Southeast. He leads legislative and EDO priorities for production sites in GA, SC, MS, and WV. He previously served as Director of Federal Relations for the University of Georgia based in Washington, DC. In that role, he served as the university’s primary liaison to Congress, federal departments and agencies, as well as higher education associations and advocacy groups. Prior to UGA, he was Manager of Operations and Policy for General Electric and is a graduate of GE’s Experienced Commercial Leadership Program (ECLP). He began his career with United States Senator Johnny Isakson in 2007.

Andrew was recognized as a member of the UGA 40 under 40 class of 2017. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Business Executives in National Security (BENS) and USO Georgia. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Business Council of Washington, DC and is a past president of the Georgia State Society of Washington, DC.

He graduated with a double major from the UGA Terry College of Business and School of Public and International Affairs in 2006. He holds bachelor’s degrees in risk management and insurance and political science. During his time at UGA, he was an Earl T. Leonard Leadership Scholar, member of the Blue Key Honor Society and a Richard B. Russell Leadership Fellow.

Col. (Ret) Joe Ferrero

Joe Ferrero has combined public and military service throughout his career. Since January of 2015, he has served as the Deputy Adjutant General of the Georgia Department of Defense. In this role he coordinates the activities of the 15,000 Army and Air Guardsmen, State Defense Force members, and civilian employees. Prior to this role, starting in 2013, he served as the executive counsel to the Georgia Department of Defense, providing legal advice to the department’s leaders.

Joe also served as the assistant commissioner of the Georgia Department of Corrections from 1999 through 2005 and acting commissioner during 2003. There, he managed the operations of an agency with 15,000 employees, a budget of $1 billion, and 185,000 felony probationers and prisoners. Prior to his service as assistant commissioner, Joe was the assistant general counsel for the Department from 1996 to 1999.

After graduating from Emory University’s law school, Joe served at the Georgia Attorney General’s Office from 1992 to 1996, where he represented the state in all public safety matters. He litigated civil rights cases and ended three of the state’s longest running civil rights class actions.

In his military career, from 2007 to 2013, Joe served as a colonel in the Georgia Air National Guard, where he developed the Guard’s plans for providing assistance during emergencies and led the Georgia ANG’s headquarters staff to provide support to the 2,900 men and women Georgia’s ANG units. Following graduation from Southern Illinois University, he served as a missile launch officer from 1983 to 1989 and later as a radar controller, deploying to Central and South America and to control strike aircraft over Bosnia, Kosovo, and Iraq.

Email: joachim.p.ferrero.nfg@mail.mil

Office: 678.569.5059

Col. Wallace Steinbrecher

Information Coming Soon

Email: wallace.e.steinbrecher2.mil@mail.mil

BG (Ret) Tom H. Blackstock, Jr.

Brigadier General (USA, Retired) Thomas H. Blackstock, Jr. is the State Director for the Georgia Youth ChalleNGe Program. He leads a team of team that operate four academies on three campuses, Hinesville, Milledgeville and Augusta. BG (R) Blackstock retired from the Georgia Army National Guard in March 2020.

General Blackstock enlisted in the Georgia National Guard in February 1982 and received his commission in June 1986 through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He has commanded at the company, battalion, group and brigade levels. General Blackstock’s senior command leadership assignments include service as Commander, 78th Troop Command; Commander, 265th Support Group (Regional); Commander, 265th Engineer Group (Combat); Deputy Commander, 265th Engineer Group (Combat); and Commander, 648th Engineer Battalion (Sapper). His key staff assignments include US Property and Fiscal Officer for Georgia; Chief of the Joint Staff; ISAF Military Technical Agreement Branch Chief; GA Army National Guard G3; Deputy USPFO; Construction and Facilities Management Officer; Executive Officer, 78th Troop Command; S3, 648th Engineer Battalion (Sapper) and S4, 265th Engineer Group (Combat).  He served in Saudi Arabia and Iraq during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm and in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. General Blackstock is a registered professional engineer in Virginia and is a Certified Defense Financial Manager. He holds a bachelor of civil engineering degree from Georgia Tech, a master of business administration degree from Touro University and a master of strategic studies degree from the US Army War College. He is a graduate of the US Army War College, the US Air War College, the Joint Forces Staff College and the US Marine Corps University.

Email: thomas.h.blackstock.mil@mail.mil

Lise Walker

Information Coming Soon

Email: lise@walker-cpa.com

Office: 770.642.6468

Col. (Ret) Frank Williams

Information Coming Soon

Email: justfbw@gmail.com

Youth ChalleNGe Academy Foundation Inc.

875 Old Roswell Road,

Suite D-500

Roswell, GA 30076

Email Us at:

gycafoundation@gmail.com

Call Us at:

1-770-642-6468