NEWS

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce’s July Leadership Savannah program featured the program’s annual City-to-City trip. This year’s destination was Atlanta, where participants engaged with key leaders and innovative projects graciously hosted by the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).

The trip included enriching panel discussions, starting with a session on transportation. Participants gained insights from Ann Purcell, GDOT board member; Meg Pirkle, GDOT Chief Engineer; and Suzanne Cooler, Chatham County Engineer and Leadership Savannah class member. Moderated by Leon Davenport of Thunderbolt Consultants, this session highlighted critical transportation issues and plans for Savannah and Georgia.

The second panel focused on housing, led by Chris Denson of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, with contributions from Kim Iler, Leadership Savannah board member, and Laura Lane McKinnon, Executive Director of Housing Inc. Savannah. The discussion explored innovative housing solutions for Savannah’s growing population.

Balancing work and leisure, the group enjoyed an evening of putt-putt, fostering stronger connections among class members. The following day, the class visited the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, learning about the legacy of H.J. Russell. The tour concluded with visits to East Lake and South Atlanta’s Purpose-Built Communities, joined by Senator Derek Mallow, Executive Director of East Savannah United, to discuss the development of a Purpose-Built Community in Savannah. This comprehensive experience provided invaluable insights into innovative community planning.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to SCAD for their hospitality and the distinguished panelists’ expertise. For more information on Leadership Savannah, contact Jennifer Davenport.