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Athens Chamber Staff

David Bradley

President & CEO
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David has had the opportunity to serve as President of two other Chambers of Commerce in North Carolina since 1998. Prior to that, he ran a plastics extrusion plant in North Carolina. David became the CEO/President of the AACOC in 2018 and is excited for all of the opportunities and challenges that this new role brings.

 

What is your favorite thing about Athens?

Big city amenities with small town charm.

Favorite Athens event?

Wild Rumpus

Favorite food?

Pizza with cold beer. Well... anything with cold beer, really.

Fun fact?

I have acted in, directed, and/or re-written around 40 community theater shows.

Kim Childs

Director of Programs

The majority of Kim's professional background is in corporate banking, but prior to coming to Athens, she worked for 4 1/2 years at another Metro Atlanta Chamber. She now helps coordinate all of our events and assists our members in any way that she can.

 

Favorite Chamber event?

My favorite events are those put on by the Women in Business committee. These events always include networking, but also focus on topics and themes that support the busy work/life balance our women professionals.

Favorite thing about Athens?

The people - everyone is so friendly and welcoming!

Favorite food?

Just about any type of Mexican food.

Fun Fact?

I am a Master Gardener and enjoy beekeeping with my husband!

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Marissa Chastain

Director of Membership & Marketing
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Marissa received a BFA in Art Education from the University of Georgia in 2012. She has professional experience in customer service and marketing. Prior to working with the Chamber, she was engaged in several capacities including Ambassador and Chair of the Small Business Breakfast Club. Marissa oversees the Chamber’s membership growth and marketing efforts.

 

What is your favorite thing about Athens?

I love that there's always something fun to do in Athens, from the vibrant arts scene to the beautiful parks and other spots to take in nature.

 

What is your favorite food?

Nothing beats pizza so Ted's Most Best is one of my favorite local restaurants. Delicious food and a great patio.

 

What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?

I always loved volunteering with the chamber and attending events as a Chamber member. I'm super passionate about the Athens community and seeing local businesses thrive, so felt like a natural fit.

Fun fact?

I enjoy singing and playing guitar/ukulele. I have played at a few local spots like the Foundry and the Athens Farmers Market.

Becky Beasley

Accountant

Becky is a CPA and has vast experience working in several different financial positions. She was a Financial Services Manager and Financial Analyst for Coca-Cola affiliated companies and on audit staff for public accounting firms Grant Thorton and Deloitte, just to name a couple positions she's held.  She helps us track all of our financials and makes sure that we stay in budget.

 

What is your favorite thing about Athens?

The energy and the eclectic events

Favorite Athens event?

Athens Twilight Criterium

Favorite local restaurant?

Seabear Oyster Bar

From Oklahoma, graduated from the University of Arkansas, but I love UGA and the Dawgs!

Favorite movie?

When Harry Met Sally

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Seth Bagwell

Membership Sales

Seth Bagwell graduated from Lagrange College in 2004 with a degree in Theatre Arts. Seth is very close to his parents, who still reside in the same house where he grew up.  He attends and volunteers at Athens Church and enjoys the music of Frank Sinatra and the atmosphere of Downtown Athens.  Seth assists Marissa to grow membership with the Chamber.

What is your favorite thing about Athens?

I like that Athens can have that big city feel while still having aspects of a small town.

Favorite Athens event?

Twilight

Favorite Food?

Steak and Gravy

Fun Fact?

I once had the pleasure of meeting Don Rickles.

Favorite Movie?

Casablanca

 

 

 

Rebekah Thompson

Intern
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Rebekah is a student at the University of Georgia pursing a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management Information Systems and a certificate in Entrepreneurship. With a long-time interest in business, Rebekah brings a unique perspective to the chamber staff.

 

What is your favorite thing about Athens? 

The small-town appeal while still having access to Trader Joe's!

Fun fact about you?

I created my first business when I was 14 years old selling custom decorated sugar cookies and cakes.

What is your favorite event in Athens? 

Twilight Criterium

What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?

The welcoming environment from the staff.

Rebekah@athensga.com

Emily Beasley

Intern

Emily is a junior at The University of Georgia, majoring in communications with a minor in human services. She is a member of Delta Gamma at the UGA. When she's not at school or work, Emily enjoys spending time with family and friends.

 

What is your favorite thing about Athens? 

My favorite thing about Athens is the fun and funky atmosphere! From trying new restaurants to watching a local Athens band, there's always something to do!

What is your favorite event in Athens? 

Twilight! I've attended with my aunt for almost 10 years, and is something I look forward to every year!

What is your favorite movie?

Grown Ups!

What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?

I chose to intern at the chamber because of the variety of different opportunities there are to learn and grow professionally. From public policy to work force development, I have learned so much already!

Bryan Torres

Intern

Bryan is a senior at The University of Georgia, majoring in economics with a certificate in legal studies. He is a member of Alpha Sigma Phi at the UGA. When not working or studying, he enjoys hiking and playing sports.

 

What is your favorite thing about Athens? 

UGA is my favorite!

What is your favorite event in Athens? 

The football games.

What is your favorite movie?

Spiderman No Way Home

What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?

I joined because I wanted to gain valuable experience working in a professional setting, while getting to know businesses within the community.

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