Athens Chamber Staff
David Bradley
President & CEO
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?
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
Marissa Chastain
Director of Membership & Marketing
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
Rebekah Thompson
Intern
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.
Stephen Abakah
Intern
Stephen is a senior at the University of Georgia, pursuing a degree in marketing. He is an avid learner who constantly seeks to learn new things. He hopes to take everything he learns from the Athens Area Chamber of Commerce to further his potential of having a successful and long career in marketing.
What is your favorite thing about Athens?
UGA
What is your favorite event in Athens?
Football games
What is your favorite movie?
Shrek 2
What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?
I joined the chamber staff because I wanted to contribute to the business/Marketing side every organization needs.
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 funk 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!