Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1538147
Tell us about your calling. What brought you to your career field? I am a fifth-generation farmer. I grew up in Musella, Ga., about 30 miles west of Macon, on a peach farm, Dickey Farms. My passion for farming and agriculture has been ingrained in me from an early age. I studied at the University of Georgia and graduated from the College of Agriculture with a degree in food industry marketing and administration I currently serve as the agricultural water withdrawal program manager for the state, working every day to protect existing agricultural users and the water resources we all depend on. As you look to the future, what are your professional and personal goals? Professionally, I want to educate not just young learners but all Georgians on the importance of agriculture. Far too many citizens are disconnected from where their food and fiber come from. Personally, I'm focused on being more present and intentional – with my family, my community, and the causes I care about. I want to stay involved in service opportunities that align with my values and find new ways to contribute to the growth and well-being of others. What other activities are you involved in where you contribute to your community? Especially mention what you're most excited about. Since moving back to Macon, I've had a passion for our children's museum, the Museum of Arts and Sciences. I've been greatly involved in the Festival of Trees for many years and recently served as Gala Chair. The museum is a unique facility we're lucky to have sitting in our backyard that represents a half-century of community investment in education. It serves not just Macon, but students from across Central Georgia and beyond. What are you personally committed to accomplishing in Macon and why? I am personally committed to being involved in projects that continue to make Macon a unique and special place to live and work – building on the good work our philanthropic organizations are doing, supporting small businesses, as well as improving our community's focus on local agriculture. I believe there's untapped potential in Macon's agricultural space – not only in traditional farming but also in agribusiness and land development. I would like to see more support for local and Georgia growers, and farm-to-table efforts that strengthen our local economy and connect people to where their food comes from. Agriculture has always been a part of Georgia's backbone, and Macon has a unique opportunity to bring it back to the forefront in innovative ways. If we invest wisely in both people and land, Macon can continue to grow in a way that's grounded, sustainable, and beneficial for generations to come. How do you think Macon is aligning to open the door wider for more people to feel included and share in our success? How has that shaped your values and actions? Macon is actively working to create a more inclusive economy by investing in programs that support diverse entrepreneurs, workforce training for underserved populations, and revitalized neighborhoods in ways that invite participation from all community members. Efforts like expanding education access through Central Georgia Technical College and Mercer University, coupled with small business grants and hiring initiatives from major employers, help open doors wider for people who have historically faced barriers. I believe true progress comes when success is shared broadly, not just concentrated among a few. For me, inclusion isn't just a goal; it's a commitment to building a community where everyone can contribute, thrive, and feel valued. What do you consider your greatest achievement? My greatest achievement is my family and what we have built together, following God's plan for my life. I have one amazing daughter and a little boy on the way, and I work hard every day to be a strong example for my children. I want them to grow up knowing hard work will lead to success, whether that be personally, professionally, or in a community. How do you reach out to others to encourage more good doing? Leaders are like farmers, planting seeds of growth in communities, organizations, and individuals through ideas, passion, and encouragement. August/September 2025 | maconmagazine.com 47 "Agriculture has always been a part of Georgia's backbone, and Macon has a unique opportunity to bring it back to the forefront in innovative ways. If we invest wisely in both people and land, Macon can continue to grow in a way that's grounded, sustainable, and beneficial for generations to come." O N T H E B E S T T H I N G S G O I N G O N I believe Macon is very unique in how the role of philanthropy is truly revitalizing a community. Our community makes daily actions and investments throughout our city's entire history, and the success in the revitalization of the community are the direct results of the contributions from philanthropic efforts.