Benji Colson
Age: 36
Title: Attorney, Broucek & Colson
Benji is a founding partner of the new law firm Broucek & Colson, LLC with Sam Broucek, who received a 20 under 40 recognition in 2016. Benji’s effective advocacy, experience and the relationships he’s built have earned him the respect of his clients, the public and his professional peers. For the past five years Benji has been named a Georgia Super Lawyers Rising Star. He is a past president of the Bulloch County Bar Association, a graduate of Leadership Bulloch, and a graduate of the Young Lawyer’s Division of the State Bar’s Leadership Academy. Benji, a lifelong resident of Bulloch County, is an SHS graduate who earned a Bachelor of Science with highest honors from Georgia Tech and completed law school at the University of Georgia. He practices in all Georgia courts, including the Georgia Court of Appeals, the Georgia Supreme Court, and is also a member of the federal bar including the Supreme Court of the United States. He and his wife Catherine live in Statesboro with their two sons, Elliott (4) and Thomas (2).
Future:
“In starting my own law firm, I’ve been reminded of the inherent goodness of the people in this community through their willingness to help without asking for anything in return. I hope that I can use my education, my experience and what talents I possess to continue serving our community. My wife and I are raising two boys here, and I hope that I do my part, however small that may be, to make Bulloch County a better place for them and for all of us.”
Ashlee Hooks Corbin
Age: 32
Title: Multimedia Account Executive, Statesboro Herald
Ashlee started working in retail sales during high school and continued working for the same employer while she completed her journalism degree at Georgia Southern University; after graduation, the Bulloch County native worked in medical customer service before joining the Statesboro Herald. Ashlee is an expert in multimedia marketing and loves helping her clients navigate their companies marketing message to successfully reach their target audiences. Seeing their business grow and succeed is tremendously rewarding to Ashlee. Equally as rewarding is her commitment to the Statesboro Kiwanis Club and Kiwanis Rodeo. She serves as a member of the Board of Directors and as the Marketing/Public Relations Chair for the Club and the Rodeo. She has been recognized by the Georgia District of Kiwanis seven times for her marketing efforts. Ashlee was also awarded a George F. Hixson Fellowship award for the Statesboro Kiwanis Club. She is married to Jason Corbin.
Future:
“I look forward to continuing my work with the Kiwanis Club of Statesboro to impact our community. I find an overwhelming sense of pride in working with the club that hosts the annual Fair. I attended that same fair as a child and I’m excited to help the club increase membership and support our fundraising efforts by using new technologies to have a greater reach. Those same technologies are reaching into my professional life as social media and digital advertising become more popular and I love learning about these and how they can help my clients."
Lauren Lindsey Fowler
Age: 38
Title: Director, Southern Manor Companion Care
Not everyone can say they get paid to do something they love. Lauren has a deep passion for the elderly and her profession allows her to make an impact in their lives. She received her Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Marketing from Georgia Southern University in 2002. Outside of her work, she also finds time to serve in other roles in the community. She is an active member of Statesboro Service League and currently serves as Wellness Chair. She also is very involved in Statesboro First United Methodist Church where she leads the Praise and Worship band for the 9:01 Service as well as teaches Sunday School and Bible Study on Wednesday nights for the Pre-K and K5 children. Originally from Wilkes County, Lauren has called Statesboro home for the past 20 years. She resides in Statesboro with her husband Rodney, and their two daughters, Audrey (9) and Reese (5) and their West Highland Terrier, Buddy Nelson.
Future:
"I plan to continue my current involvement in my profession which allows me to fulfill my passion of working with the elderly. I also want to concentrate on raising my two children to be the best individuals they can be, to love the Lord, their family, their community and to give back to others the way I was taught to do. Most importantly, I will continue to give of my time and talents to my church and God through whom all things are possible."
Kristan Fretwell
Age: 35
Title: Co-Owner, Director of Tourism, Marketing, and Human Resources at Hunter Cattle Company
Kristan is a graduate of Armstrong Atlantic University, where she graduated with a degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Education. She has a passion for the farm, for agriculture, and for teaching people of all ages about the source of food and how it is produced on small family farms. With Kristan’s leadership, Hunter Cattle has thousands of visitors each year, including schools and businesses from all the surrounding counties. Her passion for hospitality is best reflected with our barn-loft guests from all over the United States and other countries in getting “the whole farm experience." Being a “farmer for the day,” they come to learn sustainable farming and to hear from Kristan's farm experiences. Recognized as the 2014 Bulloch County Tourism Partner of the Year, and as a Georgia Department of Agriculture - Agritourism Partner, Kristan has recently been interviewed as a leader in our state for an upcoming book being published by the University of Georgia for her excellence in promoting Georgia agriculture. She resides in Stilson with her husband, Dr. Sean Fretwell, their five children, Forrest (11), Bear (9), Canyon (7), Trail Boone (5), Meadow Bloom (2), and German Shorthaired Lab, Friendly.
Future: "The rewards of working with my family on the farm is invaluable. Having that opportunity, with the blessing of raising my children here, is an experience that I can never take for granted. Working alongside a dedicated crew of co-workers, my plan is to continue in supplying us and our community with healthy food, all while sharing my journey of living life in such a beautiful part of God’s country.”
Bethany Gilliam
Age: 28
Title: CTAE Teacher, Statesboro High School
Early in her career as a teacher Bethany distinguished herself among Family and Consumer Science educators in Georgia. Often she is selected by leaders to mentor teachers who are struggling in their field. She serves as the Family Career and Community Leaders of America Region 9 advisor and has obtained their Master Adviser designation. She was named the 2016 Georgia Association of Teachers of Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher of the Year and the 2018 Georgia Association of Teachers of Family and Consumer Sciences Carl Perkins Outstanding Service Award recipient. Bethany is an active member of FBC Statesboro and is married to Shane Gilliam. They have one daughter Lottie.
Future: “In the future I plan to continue to serve Statesboro as an educator in Bulloch County. As an educator I have the wonderful opportunity to impact the future of our city and world. Teaching is not only my passion but also a calling placed on my life. I plan to strive each day to make our world a better place through the education of our future.
Chris Gohagan
Age: 34
Title: Attorney, Taulbee, Rushing, Snipes, Marsh & Hodgin, LLC
Chris is a talented attorney with ten years of experience helping businesses and individuals avoid, settle and win lawsuits who is licensed in Georgia and South Carolina. He is proud to represent some of Bulloch County’s most impactful and engaged businesses and institutions through his practice. Chris is also very active in our community currently serving on the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee and the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority Board of Directors. He is a past President of the Bulloch County Bar Association and member of the Leadership Bulloch Alumni Board of Directors. A South Carolina native, Chris received his law degree from the University of South Carolina. Chris is married to Dr. Katy Gregg, Associate Professor of Child and Family Development at Georgia Southern. They have one daughter, Marley (2).
Future: “I hope to be a supportive father and deserving husband. I hope to represent my clients and community in a way that promotes our collective prosperity. With the continued support of my family and firm, I hope to share my time and energy where it is needed. I hope to be a friend to all I meet.”
Gloria Goosby
Age: 35
Title: Director of Annual Giving, Georgia Southern University
Gloria is a higher education fundraising professional who is responsible for Georgia Southern University’s A Day for Southern campaign. She currently serves as Director of Annual Giving where she leads a team in educating alumni, community members, and other friends on the importance of private support in the academic lives of Georgia Southern students. She was one of 8 people awarded the Georgia Southern Merit Award of Excellence in 2008 and later completed GSU’s Eagle Leadership Program in 2009. She is a graduate of Leadership Bulloch and the Lynda Brannen Williamson Foundation Women’s Leadership Academy. Gloria also volunteers with Choices of the Heart Pregnancy Resource Center and the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce. Gloria is a native of Hinesville but has called Statesboro home for the past thirteen years. She is a 2004 graduate of GSU with a Bachelor of Science in Broadcasting. Gloria is married to Warren and they are new parents of a son, Isaiah, and dog parents of Judah and Butterstuff.
Future: “I want the Georgia Southern University and the Statesboro-Bulloch County communities to continue to thrive together. From raising funds for Georgia Southern students to service through the organizations I work with, I will continue to do my part to ensure both communities are the best they can be for all members.”
Catherine Ball Groover
Age: 27
Title: High School Coordinator, Ogeechee Technical College
Catherine is a Statesboro native and will be a double eagle in May when she graduates with her Masters of Education in Higher Education Administration. Catherine began working at Ogeechee Tech after she graduated with her undergrad, beginning her career within Academic Affairs. It didn’t take her long to realize her love and passion for OTC. After two years, Catherine accepted her current position within Student Affairs to work with high school students interested in Dual Enrollment. She loves working with students, helping them realize and maximize their full potential. Catherine was also a part of the inaugural class of the Lynda Brannen Williamson Leadership Academy and was recently invited into the Statesboro Service League. Aside from work and community involvement, Catherine enjoys spending time with her husband, Adam, and their two fur babies, Bella and Ollie.
Future:
“I have a genuine interest in continuing to be a part of the force behind the success of Ogeechee Technical College and its students. I want to assist in providing educational opportunities to students that will enable them to have a positive impact in their own lives, as well as the community that they live in. I want others to see the joy and passion that I have for my college, and I pray that everything I do is to the glory of God, for He is what empowers me to equip others.”
Katie Harris
Age: 37
Title: Business Manager at Statesboro STEAM Academy
Katie is a passionate community advocate serving our community through the Statesboro STEAM Academy. She received the Charter School Financial Management Certificate from the Carl Vinson Institute of Government. However it was through a Kidney Transplant in 2012 that allowed her to see the true heart of Statesboro STEAM Academy and our community. Statesboro STEAM students, faculty and staff rallied around her and become one of her main supporter’s through this medical challenge. Katie continues to give back to our community serving as an officer of the Statesboro Jaycees and chair of the Statesboro Jaycees Relay for Life team. One of her passions is to get the Downtown Dog Park open to the public. She is an outspoken supporter who is serving on the dog park committee. Katie is proud of her community and honored to call Statesboro home.
Future:
"Wow! What an honor to be included in such a great community. One of my future goals is to increase community awareness and grow the organizations that I am most passionate about - Statesboro STEAM, Downtown Dog Park, Relay for Life, and Organ Donation. The children of STEAM are a constant reminder that we as an adult community need to lead these youth by example instilling the importance of service and community. Any chance I can give back to the community, I am willing to do. Thank you so much for this honor!"
Matthew Huling
Age: 33
Title: AVP Loan Officer, Citizens Bank of the South
Matthew Huling, also known as “P.K.” among his friends and customers began his decade long banking career in Bulloch County. After serving a successful tenure as AVP/ Loan Officer with Claxton Bank, he returned “home” last spring to service his fast growing portfolio of customers in both Bulloch and Evans counties. Huling brings a wide range of experience to Citizens Bank of the South including consumer and commercial lending. Huling is a graduate of the Community Bankers Association’s Commercial and Consumer Banking Schools and is a third year participant of the Georgia Bankers Association’s Banking School. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Georgia Southern University in 2008. He is a member of the Statesboro Jaycees and serves on the Fundraising/Special Events and Membership/Ambassador committees for the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce. He is married to Heather and they have one daughter, Emily. The family looks forward to welcoming new baby, Olivia, this May.
Future:
“What I love most about my job as a community banker is being able to serve friends and accommodate the people who’ve supported me my whole life. I’m thankful to now be in a position to lead and participate in civic and professional organizations in a way that allows me to be most accessible to my customers. Simply put, I love being where they are. Being back in Statesboro permits me to be the best banker, husband and father I can be and I look forward to raising my family here too.”
Travis Kreun
Age: 33
Title: Senior Detective, Statesboro Police Department
Travis is currently assigned as a Senior Detective, responsible for investigating a wide range of felony crimes and incidents in Statesboro. In addition, he is the counter-sniper and Assistant Team Leader with the department's SWAT team. In his SWAT capacity, he is responsible for assisting in the overall training and mission of the team, as well as equipment, resources, and mentoring of personnel. Travis is certified as a General Instructor and Firearms Instructor, and assists in the training mission of the department. He oversees the department's participation in the 10-33 program, where the department can acquire additional resources at no cost to the city, to include acquiring life-saving tourniquets for every officer to carry. Travis also leads the digital forensic program at the department, being certified to extract and examine digital evidence from cell phones and other mobile devices. He holds a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice from Reinhardt University. Travis and his wife Tiffany have three children, ages 7, 4, and 2 months.
Future:
“The first goal is to be the best father and husband possible. I believe this foundation allows me to be a good officer, detective, and leader. I wish to continue improving my skills and to mentor to other officers. Hopefully, I can lead by example which allows me to encourage fellow officers to continue to raise the standard of our department. It is imperative that we all help our city by supporting and encouraging exemplary people who are dedicated and prepared to protect it.”
Laura Lanier
Age: 38
Title: Owner, Sole Boutique and Dish Boutique // Political Consultant, Lanier Consulting
Laura is the owner of two clothing boutiques in Statesboro, Sole and Dish, and just celebrated her eleventh year in retail. In addition to being an entrepreneur, Laura has worked in the political sector for eighteen years. She began her career as campaign manager for the late Congressman Charlie Norwood, served for eight years as senior staff to Governor Sonny Perdue and since 2010 has worked as an independent political and fundraising consultant to various local, state and national candidates. Laura graduated Phi Beta Kappa from the University of Georgia with a degree in political science. She is a past president of Professional Women of Statesboro and past secretary of the board of Keep Bulloch Beautiful. She is an active member of the Statesboro Service League and a current participant in Leadership Georgia. Originally from Augusta, Laura has called Statesboro home for the past 13 years. She and her husband Joe are the proud parents of two boys, Joe Jr. (7) and Ed (2).
Future:
“Statesboro is a wonderful place to live, and Joe and I consider it a privilege to raise our family here. This amazing town has embraced me, and I am forever grateful. Professionally, I look forward to continuing to serve the women of Statesboro and Georgia Southern through my boutiques. I also look forward to working with the dedicated men and women who put themselves up for office and serve our community. Statesboro is one of America's best communities because of the people who live here, and I will continue to look for new opportunities to do my part."
Hugh Mays
Age: 28
Title: Solutions Consultant, Digital Office Equipment
Hugh started his career at Digital Office Equipment while attending Georgia Southern University. Upon graduation, he transitioned to his current position as a Solutions Consultant. Hugh enjoys partnering with businesses to help them streamline business processes by implementing software solutions, multifunction printers, & telecommunications systems. Hugh is a natural networker and leader. He is member of the Statesboro Bulloch County Chamber of Commerce. He is also the Past President of his Business Network International Chapter in Savannah where he was recently awarded Regional Member of the Year and led his team to the Chapter of The Year Award for the Savannah Region. Hugh recently became a Chapter Ambassador where he focuses on assisting other BNI chapters and members increase their business through a structured, positive, and professional referral marketing program. Hugh is a member and Past Master of Ogeechee Masonic Lodge #213 in Statesboro. He is an officer of the Statesboro Jaycees and volunteers as a youth basketball coach with the Boys and Girls Club. He has a passion for helping and serving others in our local community.
Future:
“It has been incredible to be a team member of such a successful local company in our community. My plan is to continue a commitment of serving our clients every day and taking on new responsibilities within our company. I also will look for more opportunities to give back to this community that has given me so much. All while focusing on innovative ways to serve others and better myself professionally, morally, and as a community leader.”
Paul Newman
Age: 35
Title: Broker/Owner of Statesboro Real Estate/Co-Owner of PMG Rentals
Paul discovered Statesboro while attending Georgia Southern University and fell in love with it. After graduating with his BS in Marketing and Sales, he began his career as a Realtor. Paul became a partner in PMG Rentals, a rental company that manages over 600 properties in 2009. In 2015 Paul opened his own real estate firm, Statesboro Real Estate and has been ranked in the Top 5 Realtors in Bulloch County for the last 6 years. Paul is a past member of the Georgia Southern Young Alumni Board where he sponsors a scholarship, the PMG Endowment Fund, which his company started for the GSU College of Business to support student success. Paul employs and offers internships for current students at GSU, having employed over 25 regular staff members to date. In addition, he offers an Internship to the College of Business Administration students and is the Official Real Estate Agent of Georgia Southern Athletics. Paul is a Leadership Bulloch Alumnus, a member of Connection Church, actively supports Athletes in Action, The Boys and Girls Club, The Tyson Foundation, and many other local causes, both financially and with his time. Paul is married to Lori and they have three children, Stella, Grant, and Henry.
Future:
“I truly love Statesboro and strive to better the community and Georgia Southern University in every way I can. My passions include the College of Business and Entrepreneurship. I would love to see more and more people open businesses that they are passionate about, as this is a major key to a sustainable business. Fostering opportunities for up and coming students and graduates of Georgia Southern is my way of giving back.”
Chad Prosser
Age: 38
Title: Asst. Principal and Athletic Director Statesboro High School
Chad wears many hats at SHS and in our community. He is a native of Bulloch County and a graduate of SHS who holds a Masters of Education from GSU and an Education Specialist degree from Argosy University. He was recognized as the SHS Teacher of the Year in 2011 and Region 2-AAAAA Athletic Director of the Year in 2017. Chad is a graduate of Leadership Bulloch and an active member and leader at Statesboro FUMC. He also serves as a volunteer Coach for Statesboro Bulloch county Parks and Recreation Department. He is a man of integrity, whose word is his bond, who lives by a high moral standard, he is an example to many young people with whom he is in contact with on a daily basis. Chad is quiet and thoughtful, with a sense of fairness. He is married to Jennifer and they have three children: Drew (11), Lorelei (9), and Brannen (7)
Future:
“As a lifelong resident of Bulloch County, I have a strong desire to see our community continue to grow and improve, and I want to be involved in making that happen. As an educator, I have the opportunity to positively impact the young people I see every day, and I hope to continue to serve this community in this role in any way the Lord guides me. Continuing to grow as a Christian, husband, father, son, friend, community member, educator, and leader is very important to me. ”
Bryan Realiza
Age: 30
Title: Cardiac Sonographer, EGRMC
Bryan is a Cardiac Sonographer in the Echocardiography Lab at East Georgia Regional Medical Center. He earned a Bachelors in Exercise Science from Georgia Southern University in 2009 and an MBA in Healthcare Administration from South University in 2013. Bryan is also a graduate of the Echocardiography Program at Ogeechee Technical College, where he currently serves as secretary of the Echocardiography Program’s Advisory Board. Bryan is the former coach of the Georgia Southern University Dance Team, which he coached for 6 years. He is a competition judge for Fusion National Dance Competition, as well as the current competition instructor at Dancer’s Edge Performing Arts Company at both Statesboro & Claxton locations. Bryan’s most notable volunteer work has been with Safe Haven’s annual fundraiser, Dancing with the Statesboro Stars. In addition to being a member of the DWTSS Planning Committee since 2013, Bryan is the current producer and head choreographer of the show, as well as one of the twelve pro dancers.
Future:
“In a world that can be very divisive, I hope that my actions can inspire others to be kind, accepting, and active in their communities—that’s what our country needs most. I am humbled and thankful for this nomination. As I look to the future, I hope my professional growth and leadership skills can continue to serve our great community.”
Cicely Sikes
Age: 39
Title: Senior Land Acquisition Agent, Georgia Power Company
Cicely travels throughout Georgia serving in her role as Senior Land Acquisition Agent in Environmental and Natural Resource Department for Georgia Power. She obtained a BS in Justice Studies from Georgia Southern University and hold a MBA in Marketing from American Intercontinental University. Cicely is a graduate of the Lynda Brannen Women’s Foundation 2016 Inaugural class and the 2017 Citizens of Georgia Power President. Citizens of Georgia Power is a non-profit statewide organization that serves Georgia Power employees, families & communities. Under Cicely’s leadership, the Statesboro CGP Chapter dedicated over 500 volunteer hours and over $10,000 to various organizations throughout the Statesboro community benefiting local organizations including the Statesboro Food Bank, Relay for Life, Statesboro Regional Library, YMCA and American Red Cross local blood drives. She served as a member of the Statesboro Exchange Club and is an active member of St. Matthews Catholic Church. Along with her husband Joseph they are parents to two children: Colin (11) and Gavin (8).
Future:
“I have a genuine love for people and building relationships. In my role as an acquisition agent with Georgia Power, I am afforded the opportunity to meet people of all walks of life. I have created lifetime friendship in this job. My plan is to continue to develop and share my professional skills and talents within Georgia Power and in my community. I am committed to being a servant leader and will continue to be a Citizen where I serve!”
Samantha N. Smith
Age: 39
Title: Dean of Adult Education, Ogeechee Technical College
For Samantha, being the Dean of Adult Education at Ogeechee Technical College was an appointment of purpose. It was the meeting of both professional aspirations and personal experiences. She has been volunteering and working with young people and their families in the Statesboro community since 1999. Through her involvement with Bethesda House Ministries, Inc., Samantha was exposed to and was able to learn about the larger needs of the community. She continued her volunteerism and began her career in adult education as the volunteer Instructor and Coordinator for OTC’s off-site adult education/GED classes at the BLJ Grace Center in the Whitesville Community. She continued to teach adult education classes through Paxen Learning Corporation until becoming the Dean of Adult Education in November 2016. Samantha serves and supports students and their families in the communities around the state of Georgia by promoting the importance of literacy and education. Samantha is a member of the Lynda Brannen Williamson Women’s Leadership Academy class. She has shared her volunteer experiences and planted seeds of service in her greatest life's work, her three daughters, Shekinah (18), Samariah (16) and Sa'Diyah "Sadie" (8).
Future:
"It is an honor and blessing to have my professional career and personal goals align so seamlessly. The experiences and opportunities that God has allowed me to have were not solely for me and my family, but for each life that He places in front of me. So whether I continue to work with my students at the college, individuals connected to local community organizations or total strangers in passing, my commitment is to serve. My goal is to continue changing lives through education and volunteerism, encouraging and strengthening those in need and shaping future generations of servant-leaders."
Brandy Snell
Age: 36
Title: Director of Operations, Chick-fil-A, Statesboro
Brandy has a passion for serving others. Through her work at Chick-fil-A she is able to not only impact the lives of the people in this community but the people she works with and mentors. She started working for Chick-fil-A almost 10 years ago as their Marketing Director and four years ago was promoted to the role of Operations Director. She is a graduate of Leadership Georgia, currently participating in the Lynda Brannen Williamson Women’s Leadership Program, and a Member of the Statesboro Service League. She has a passion for the foster care system and gives a great deal of time supporting fostering families. She is a member of the Metter United Methodist Church and a graduate from Georgia Southern University. Brandy is married to Steven and they have two sons, Hudson (7) and Harrison (4).
Future:
“I am thankful to work for such an amazing company that cares about our community as well as the team that I am fortunate to work with. I look forward to continuing to lead a successful business while being a mentor to my team. I have passion to continue to learn and grow as a leader. I believe if we stop learning, we stop growing. I hope to always be a positive role model for growing leaders where I work and volunteer. I also plan to continue to serve in the foster care system in which I hold a special passion for.”
Josh Whitfield
Age: 34
Title: Owner, Whitfield Signs
Josh is a Bulloch County native who graduated from Bulloch Academy in 2002 and UGA in 2006 Major in Economics. He started Whitfield Signs six years ago and it has rapidly grown into a national company. With a design first mentality Whitfield Signs set its self apart branding universities, companies and organizations. Josh helped found and has been the driving force for Statesboro’s Airport Day. His idea with this event is to connect the entire community to the aviation community while raising money for deserving people and organizations. He has a passion for Statesboro which led him to take on one of the largest redevelopment projects in Statesboro’s historic downtown. Named “The West District” after the dilapidated building he is recovering that once was home to West Building Supply. This mixed use development brings new life into a forgotten part of our downtown. Josh is married to Lauren and together they are parents to two daughters Harper (7) and Emery (5). He considers his two girls his greatest accomplishment.
Future:
“I have been very blessed and thankful for the amazing team at Whitfield Signs who are the reason we have had so much success. I look forward to growing and taking on the next challenge with them. I hope to do my part in making sure this community is always the best in the country and a place that my girls will be proud to call home when they grow up.”