Development Authority of Lumpkin County Selects New Executive Director

DAHLONEGA, Ga. – Ms. Rebecca Shirley has been named the next Executive Director of the Development Authority of Lumpkin County. Shirley officially assumed this new role on Jan. 28, 2019.

“The Development Authority of Lumpkin County board of directors selected Ms. Shirley to be our next Executive Director,” said Chairman Jim Curtis. “We are confident in her abilities and strongly believe her knowledge of the community will help her to quickly understand the business climate and effectively grow relationships with our industry leaders and partner organizations.”

Shirley’s background uniquely positions her for this role. She has 10 years of local government experience, primarily in the fields of economic development, planning, community engagement, and marketing for the City of Dahlonega. Throughout her career, she has worked with organizations across a range of industries including government, nonprofits, and retail, lodging, agritourism, and hospitality related businesses.

“Lumpkin County is my home, and I am honored to be selected for this role,” said Shirley. “I look forward to doing my part to facilitate growth while maintaining the character and natural beauty of our community.”

Prior to her work with the Development Authority of Lumpkin County, Shirley served in several positions with the City of Dahlonega, including the Executive Director of the Dahlonega Downtown Development Authority. She is also a commissioned engineer and public affairs officer with the US Army Reserve and currently serves as a team leader with a public affairs detachment. Shirley has a BA from the University of Georgia and an MPA from the University of North Georgia.

The mission of the Development Authority of Lumpkin County is to enrich local employment, the county tax base, and business opportunity while honoring the history, natural beauty, and character of Lumpkin County. For more information on projects and programs visit, https://picklumpkincounty.org/.