Savannah and Statesboro locals have been named to the Georgia Southern University Alumni Association’s “40 Under 40” Class of 2024. The honor recognizes alumni who have made significant strides in business, leadership, community, educational or philanthropic endeavors.

Savannah resident Kristin Burton ('10,'13), DPT, earned an undergraduate degree and Doctor of Physical Therapy from Georgia Southern. Today, she is a physical therapist, certified canine rehabilitation practitioner and co-owner of Fetch Canine Rehab.

Statesboro area honorees include:

Rachel Barnwell ('08), who earned a bachelor’s in sport management, is vice president of the Development Authority of Bulloch County.

Sean Bear ('23) earned a Doctor of Public Health from Georgia Southern and currently serves as the University’s public health administrator.

Karen Brazell ('11,'15,'18) is a Triple Eagle with a bachelor’s and master’s in nursing, as well as a post master’s certificate in psychiatric and mental health. She is the owner and family nurse practitioner at Elevation Men’s Clinic where she provides specialized care through a holistic approach.

Garrett Clark ('13), who acquired a bachelor’s in civil engineering, is owner of Rolling Monkey and Inspired Solutions Consulting.

Megen Conner ('11,'17), a former student-athlete who earned an undergraduate degree in general studies and a master’s in kinesiology, is owner of GRIT Elite Sports Academy in Brooklet, Georgia.

Akiv Dawson ('13,'16), has a bachelor’s in general studies and a master’s in social science from Georgia Southern, where she currently serves as an assistant professor in the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. 

Sean Fox ('09) earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing and is the owner and head of creative and strategy for Pioneer Design and Marketing.

Tiffoni Buckle McCartney ('22) has an MBA from Georgia Southern and is the corporate sustainability manager for Georgia Ports Authority.

Jana Phillips ('12) earned a bachelor’s in interior design and is co-owner and president of operations for Whitfield Signs.

The “40 Under 40” honorees were chosen by a selection committee that reviewed each individual’s professional expertise, achievements, dedication to charitable and community initiatives and their commitment to Georgia Southern.

For the full list of “40 Under 40” Class of 2024 honorees and to learn more about the program, visit GeorgiaSouthern.edu/40Under40. The group will also be featured in the fall 2024 edition of Georgia Southern Magazine.