On November 20, 2024, the Regional Industry Support Enterprise, Inc. (RISE) held its first annual meeting. During the meeting, the board of directors was officially formed and  appointed the officers.

The board of directors represents the eight counties that RISE serves: Bryan, Bulloch, Candler, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty and Screven.

The board of directors and officers are:

Kay Ford, Chairperson, Chatham County

Rep. Al Williams, Vice Chairperson, Liberty County

Adam Kennedy, Secretary/Treasurer, Evans County

Brynn Grant, Liberty County

Jessica Hood, CEcD, Effingham County

Van R. Johnson, II, SPHR, SHRM-CP, IPMA-CP, Chatham County

Dr. Kyle Marrero, Bulloch County

Stephen Milner, Screven County

Roger Moss, Chatham County

Hannah Mullins, Candler County

Ryan Purvis, P.E., Bryan County

Paul Roesel, Bulloch County

Jon Seagraves, Bryan County

Trip Tollison, Chatham County

Todd Wall, Effingham County

During the annual meeting, RISE President and CEO Anna Chafin welcomed the new board and said she looked forward to working with them. 

“Each of our board members brings a unique perspective and ideas on workforce and how RISE can move the ball forward to support our industries. The RISE staff looks forward to working with the board as we advance our initiatives,” said Chafin.

The Regional Industry Support Enterprise’s mission is to be the key facilitator of industry support services and workforce development in the Savannah region. The organization is focused on seven core focus areas: Military, Underrepresented, Housing, Education, Transportation, Childcare and Marketing.