Justin Williams Justin Williams, the director of Planning & Development for the city of Statesboro, graduated last month from the Georgia Academy for Economic Development. Graduates of the program are community and economic development professionals, elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators and citizens from across Georgia. Created in 1993, the Academy assembles a cross-section of experts, research-based curriculum, and resources necessary for building a vibrant economy. According to a release from the group, the Academy features a cornerstone program, “The Essentials,” a one-day program that provides attendees an opportunity to gain an understanding of the complexities of economic and community development on the local, regional and state levels. Williams and other graduates of the program have completed The Essentials, as well as at least three advanced courses that are designed to study closely specific topics derived from current needs, trends and data. The Board of Directors at the Academy represent public and private economic development organizations and agencies across Georgia. Georgia EMC and Georgia Power provide facilitators for the program on beha
