2 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
The Class of 2017 David Ball Page 2
Molly Bickerton Page 3
Peyton Fuller Page 4
Alex Grovenstein Page 4
Dalton Hutcheson Page 5
Meagan Johnson Page 6
John Keene Page 6
Sandi Kirkland Page 7
Amy Luna Page 8
Tyrone McBride Page 10
Kristie McGraw Page 10
America Minc Page 11
Brian Powell Page 11
Erica Sellers Page 12
Brad Sheffield Page 9
Daniel Stackpole Page 12
Jordan Walker Page 13
Chris Wiggins Page 9
Kyle Williams Page 14
Joel Wright Page 15
David Ball Age: 23 Title: Director of Franchise Development, Tormenta FC Professional
After its inaugural season, David was one of the chief architects of Tormenta FC being named the
2016 New Franchise of the Year for the Premier Development League. His behind the scenes role helped orchestrate the atmosphere and ticket sales that saw Tormenta FC lead the Eastern Conference of the PDL in attendance and to be named the host site for the 2017 Eastern Conference Final Four. In addition to his professional success, David volunteers as the head coach for the SHS Boys Soccer team. His efforts are profound in the growth of soccer in our community.
Future
“I am speechless. To be honored at such a young age by people in the
community I call home is beyond what I thought being humbled would feel like. I work for an amazing organization at Tormenta FC and get to live in an amazing community that is Statesboro, Georgia. To be included in this group of professionals is a responsibility as well to continue to have an impact, and I intend to do so. Thank you, Statesboro and Bulloch County!”
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 3
Molly Bickerton Age: 32 Title: Director of Admissions, Ogeechee Technical College Professional
Molly was the first Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL) winner from Ogeechee
Technical College. After graduating from the radiologic technology program, Molly joined the staff at Memorial University Medical Center in Savannah. While at MMC, Molly earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Health Care Administration, as well as a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Health Care Management. In 2015, she returned to OTC as an Academic Advisor and was promoted to Director of Admissions in 2016.
Future
“I am thankful to have a position that thrives on the success of stu-
dents. My goal is to maximize the positive economic opportunity that OTCstudents have on Bulloch, Evans and Screven counties. I am fortunate to have mentors in our community that promote personal growth, encourage professional achievements and inspire innovation. They inherently possess the dedication that is needed in creating positive change in our community.”
Cong atulations to Alex and Chris!
Congr tuulla lat ati tio ions ttoo Bria Powel ell! We are s prroouudd off yo you! 9 12-7 7 6 4 -6 6200
15 5 3 N o t h sid e Dr ve E Acrooss from Badcock Furniture
www..loafitnessforwomen.com/statesboro
Th han nk ou u fo or ur ded dic io on o ur com mmuni y an nd ou ur clu ub!
4 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Peyton Fuller Age: 35 Title: Senior Accountant, Georgia Southern University Professional
Professionally, Peyton is the Senior Accountant in the Research Accounting Department in the
Business and Finance Division at GSU. He has a passion for his profession but also finds time to serve in other roles at GSU, such as Treasurer for Staff Council. Peyton holds a Master of Public Administration and a Graduate Certificate in Public Management, as well as undergraduate degrees in Accounting and Criminal Justice. He has prior work experience in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. He is a charter member of the Statesboro Jaycees helping restart the organization in 2015.
Future
“I have a genuine interest in continuing to be a part of the force behind
the success of Georgia Southern University. I am always willing to take on new responsibilities and learn more about the institution that I care so much about. Additionally, I plan to continue my commitment to serving Statesboro’s community. I am committed to sharing the message of being service-oriented and the power of combining a community’s resources by setting an example for others to follow.”
Alex Grovenstein Age: 37 Title: Auctioneer, South Auction and Realty Professional
After a successful career in communications and non-profit development, Alex embarked on a career
in the auction industry in 2014. His success has continued as he has used the auction method of marketing to sell everything from real estate to business inventory and personal collections. Most recently, he liquidated the assets of Savannah’s Historic Johnny Harris Restaurant and was named Best Auctioneer in the Boro by the Statesboro Herald in 2016. Alex currently serves as President of the Kiwanis Club of Statesboro, Cubmaster of Pack 337 in Brooklet and on the board of the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce. Alex and his wife of 15 years, Angela, have two sons Davis (11) and Murphy (8).
Future
“My goal for the future is simply to help others. Professionally, I plan to
accomplish that by continuing to educate people on the merits of the auction method to competitively, quickly and efficiently convert assets to cash. Personally, I plan to continue my current volunteer efforts and do my very best to emulate for children what a good man should look like.”
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 5
Pros Start Here
Dalton Hutcheson Age: 24 Title: Professional Musician Professional
Congratulations
David Ball, II
Dalton is an accomplished Bass player who has opened for acts such as Tyler
Farr and Trick Pony. He has played for many popular local bands including The Joe Anderson Band and Ten Mile Creek. After being diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis as a child, he used horseback riding as therapy. He produced his first Rodeo at only 12 years old for the Cowboy for Kids non-profit that helps disabled kids learn to ride horses for therapeutic purposes. He was featured in Equestrian Magazine for his success in using horseback riding as therapy for himself and others. At only 24, Dalton has not allowed Cystic Fibrosis from preventing him from chasing his dreams and helping others.
Future
“It has always been important to me to get the
most out of life that I possibly can. To experience and see as much as possible, and to help others do the same. My future plans include continuing my work with D&K Towing, as well as playing music as much as possible. It’s my hope that eventually I’ll be able to start a haunted forest or haunted house that raises funds for Cystic Fibrosis organizations.”
Tormenta FC is proud to have you on our leadership team.
6 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Meagan Johnson Age: 27 Title: Director of Sales and Marketing, Holiday Inn Statesboro Professional
Since rejoining the Holiday Inn team in 2013, Meagan has been the driving force in generating reve-
nue for the hotel through the development and implementation of sales strategies and improvements to the overall operations of the hotel. Meagan works closely with key business leaders, officials and representatives of local community groups to ensure constant high profile exposure for the hotel. She received her degree from Georgia Southern and her Masters from Clemson University. Meagan serves as a member of the Statesboro Jaycees, is the current Vice President of the Professional Women of Statesboro, a 2016 graduate of Leadership Bulloch and will graduate from the Lynda Brannen Williamson Women’s Leadership Academy this May.
Future
“Through my current position I have had the opportunity to help wel-
come and introduce new companies to Statesboro. My goal is to continue to work in a career that allows me to share what I have come to love and appreciate about Statesboro with new businesses to help drive economic development and overall quality of life for our community.”
John Keene Age: 34 Title: Owner/CEO, First Source Logistics Professional
John is the founder and owner of First Source Logistics, a successful local logistics services busi-
ness. John built the business from a one-man operation to now an operation with offices across the United States. John is a faithful servant of God. He serves as an adult Sunday school teacher at FBCStatesboro and board member of Delight in The Lord Ministries, a ministry serving the indigent in Uganda, Africa. He is a giver, working quietly in the community to help others through organizations like Fostering Bulloch/7th Mile Farm. John lives in Statesboro with his wife DeAnna, daughter Ally Anna (12), son John Wesley (8) and Cash their Boykin Spaniel.
Future
“My future goals are not tied to any gross sales or net worth statistics.
My main priority is to learn to serve God better each day. The achievements that we make and the possessions or wealth that we accumulate throughout our lives on this earth are not important. This is not our home and none of those things really belong to us. They are merely tools for us to use in accomplishing God’s work. Tools that He uses to prepare us for our true home.”
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 7
Sandi Kirkland Age: 38 Title: Owner, Hirsch Kirkland Investments, LLC Professional
Sandi is the owner of Hirsch Kirkland Investments, LLC which provides business solution services.
She graduated from Statesboro High School in 1997, received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Broadcasting from Georgia Southern University in 2001 and her Master’s in Business Administration from Regis University in 2006. She and her family are active members at East Main Street Church of God. Civically, she volunteers with the Special Olympics, March of Dimes, MDA, Boys and Girls Club, Safe Haven and Fostering Bulloch. Sandi lives in Statesboro with her husband Carroll, their two children, Bryant (11) and Delaney (8) and their toy Chihuahua, Gizmo.
Future
“I want to concentrate on raising my two children to be the best individ-
uals they can be, to love their community and give back to it the way I was taught to do. I plan to continue in advisory and consulting positions at ERA Hirsch Real Estate Team, PAN Consulting Group, LLC and Tri-Care Family Medicine. I was told at an early age ‘Work like you own the business’ and you will be successful and gratified at the end of the day.”
We’re very proud of you Your family,
Mom and Dad, Candler, Lauren Whitfield, Josh Whitfield, Harper and Emery
Congratulations to David Ball, II for being selected 20 under 40 & the work he is doing with Tormenta PDL
Pros Start Right here in Statesboro, Ga
8 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Here is where you lead the way. Amy Luna, Ph.D. Age: 35 Title: Psychology Clinic Director, Ga. Southern Univ. Professional
Dr. Luna earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from Oklahoma State
Congratulations to Chris Wiggins, Jr., Relationship Banker and Brad Sheffield, Regional Retail Sales Manager for being selected as 2017 Top 20 Under 40 Business and Professional Leaders by The Statesboro Herald!
912.489.8661 synovus.com
Banking products are provided by Synovus Bank, Member FDIC. Divisions of Synovus Bank operate under multiple trade names across the Southeast.
University. At GSU, she has worked to provide high quality, low cost mental health services. Through the clinic, over 900 lower income citizens have received help. The clinic has become a vital mental health care resource. In addition, she has taken a proactive role in developing a professional network where agencies, health professionals and local businesses can receive training to identify and advocate for people with emotional and behavioral difficulties. She strives to empower those in need to advocate for themselves in their pursuit of a higher quality of life. Dr. Luna is an active member of the Statesboro Zeta Tau Alpha alumnae chapter and serves as the financial advisor to the chapter at GSU. She is happily married and enjoys spending time with her family.
Future
“I am excited about future opportunities to pro-
mote wellness. My goals include extending mental health care to the most needed segments of the community and being an active agent in generating pro-mental health policies.”
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 9
Brad Sheffield Age: 38 Title: Senior VP, Regional Retail Sales Manager, Synovus Professional
Brad joined Sea Island Bank in 2003 as a part time teller. During his 14 years with Synovus and Sea
Island Bank, he has held various leadership positions including his current position as Senior Vice President and Regional Retail Sales Manager. He is a graduate of Georgia Southern University in Mechanical Engineering Technology and also holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA). Civically he serves as treasurer for DSDA, Past President of Habitat for Humanity leading construction of houses number 50 and 51, and is an alum of Leadership Bulloch. Brad is a member of Connection Church. Brad and his wife Ashley have two children, Dixon, 5 and Branan, 3.
Future
“My goal is to use my education and experience to help small businesses
and individuals achieve their financial goals. In addition, I have enjoyed serving my community through nonprofit and civic opportunities like Habitat and the DSDA in order to make our community better. I contribute a great deal of my success to my parents and various mentors in Bulloch County. I thank God every day to be able to live and work in this community.”
Chris Wiggins, Jr. Age: 32 Title: Relationship Banker, Sea Island Bank, a division of Synovus Professional
Chris is a Bulloch County native and a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Georgia Southern University,
obtaining a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus on Business Management. Chris began his career in banking with Sea Island Bank in 2008 as a teller. He currently serves as a relationship banker for Sea Island Bank. He has a passion for helping customers with their banking experience. Chris serves the community as a member of the Statesboro Kiwanis Club and the Statesboro Jaycees. He has been involved with the Bulloch County American Cancer Society since 2009 and is currently serving as co-chair for Bulloch Country 2017 Relay for Life event.
Future
“My goal for the future is to continue to seek ways to improve myself
professionally and personally. I am grateful to have been raised in a community that allows so many opportunities to give back to others. There are many in Bulloch County who have been such an inspiration to me. I hope that I can take what I have learned from them to be a better Christian, banker and community servant.”
10 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Tyrone McBride, Jr. Age: 30 Title: Patrol Lieutenant, Georgia Southern University Police Professional
McBride began his tenure at Georgia Southern in 2007. He is the youngest administrative profes-
sional in the department and he has utilized his position to build relationships with students at the university by serving as an advisor for several organizations, participating in student events and by being active in the community with the specific focus of community oriented policing. He also participates in community projects such as GREAT, DARE and Bulloch’s Night Out Against Crime in collaboration with Statesboro Police Department and Bulloch County Sherriff’s Office. Tyrone and his wife Jessica have one son, Jordan, (10).
Future
“My overarching goal is simply to live life in a way that allows me to
serve God. One way I aim to reach this goal is through service to others. I want to have a positive impact on the young men in our community, helping them to become productive members of society. I currently facilitate a young men’s mentorship program, YOUNG. EDUCATED.SUCCESSFUL (YES), at my church United Fellowship Worship Center.”
Kristie McGraw Age: 38 Title: Store Manager, Talbots at Woodland Square Professional
It was Kristie’s love of people that inspired her to study Hospitality and Tourism Management at
Georgia Southern University in 1996. Her retail journey began at Bath and Body Works. As Rite Aid store manager where she campaigned for the Children’s Miracle Network as Committee Chair. Now at Talbots, she petitioned to make Talbots a local events store, to enable her to host charity events to benefit local charities and causes. Most recently, she and her team hosted a charity event for Statesboro High School National Honor Society. Kristie and her husband Bryan have three children Lane 14, Riley 6, and Tristan 4.
Future
“My goal is to keep moving forward. I want to focus on growing our busi-
ness and expanding Talbots local events program to encompass a variety of local charities. Part of that vision is to continue to build upon the relationships that ensure we are all a part of something special. Having the opportunity to be a part of our community’s growth is inspiring. I am thankful that my children will be able to grow up here, with a passion for giving back.”
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 11
America Minc Age: 38 Title: Director, Rec. Facilities & Fitness, Campus Rec. & Intramurals, GSU Professional
America is a Double Eagle and a proud alum of the College of Business. She leads operations for the
Recreation Activity Center (RAC), a state of the art, 215,000 square foot recreation center that averages over 5,000 participants a day. At GSU, she serves on the University Staff Council, SOAR Advisory Council, and Student Conduct Board. She is the current President of the Professional Women of Statesboro, serves on the Board of Directors for the Lynda Brannen Williamson Foundation, is the Chair of the Neuromuscular Therapy Committee at OTC and is a member of the Statesboro Jaycees.
Future
“As a lifelong learner, I hope to further my education and continue to serve
my alma mater and the field of higher education. I have a passion for health and fitness and how each person’s quality of life is connected to the quality of our community. I have been inspired by the Girls On The Run organization to work towards empowering children to recognize their voice, responsibility and confidence through an integrated running program. I look forward to developing partnerships with local schools to establish a similar program.”
Brian Powell Age: 33 Title: Owner, Statesboro Southern Scapes Professional
Brian is a Bulloch county native and 2002 graduate of Bulloch Academy. He founded Statesboro
Southern Scapes, a commercial and residential landscape service, in 2004, growing it to 19 full-time team employees. Brian has expanded in many different avenues since he started his business, from maintenance, irrigation, landscape design and installation, weed control and fertilization, and also a pine straw company. Last year, he purchased the former Wise Nursery rebranding it to Southern Scapes Nursery. His vision is to provide this community with the highest quality services in the industry. Brian has been married for eight years to Krista Powell and they have two children.
Future
“I owe this recognition to my team members who have helped my busi-
ness reach the level that we are at today. It is such a blessing to be able to own a business that has the ability to employ so many people. My goals are to treat our team members and customers with the upmost respect and to expand our vision throughout our community by providing Statesboro with the highest of quality services and nursery products.”
12 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Erica Sellers Age: 35 Title: Marketing and Sales Director, Statesboro Magazineg Professional
As part of Statesboro Magazine since 2006, Erica oversees and creates advertising opportunities and
marketing platforms within the magazine portfolio. Erica’s areas of expertise include brand management, integrated marketing, strategic partnership development and marketing research. Erica earned a BBA from Georgia Southern University in 2004 and an MBA in 2012. She is a 2008 graduate of Leadership Bulloch and past president of Professional Women of Statesboro and the Leadership Bulloch Alumni Board. She also served as V.P. of the Georgia Jaycees Board of Directors; founding member of the Statesboro Jaycees; and on capital campaign fundraising committees.
Future
“I love creative marketing ideas and helping businesses reach their foot-
print potential by bringing customers through their doors. I hope to continue to use marketing as a business and economic development tool on a corporate level benefiting partners. I also enjoy using my marketing skills to serve in the non-profit community. I want to continue to give back to the Statesboro area, especially in mentoring young women.”
Daniel Stackpole Age: 30 Title: Owner, Stackpole Food Services Professional
Since founding his company seven years ago with one service tech, he now has five techs and loca-
tions in Statesboro and Savannah with $1.5 million in annual sales. Part of his growth was fueled by the acquisition of Savannah Restaurant Equipment. This allowed Daniel to expand his retail and service operations to Savannah. He is heavily involved in Connection Church, where he leads a mission team to Honduras once a year as well as leads a Connect Group. He coaches for SBCPRD and is a huge supporter of Fostering Bulloch. Daniel has been married for 5 years to Chelsea (Brown) and they have two children, Miles (8) and EllieKate (3).
Future
“Keep God first in all that I do. I wouldn’t enjoy any success if it wasn’t
for the help of God. I continue to pace our business growth. Understanding we have grown by focusing on providing great customer service. I still keep my focus on the other small business owners in Bulloch County by helping them grow their business, making sure they are getting fair pricing on service and items and not being taken advantage of by out-of-town companies.”
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 13
Jordan Walker Age: 27 Title: Pharmacist Manager, Walker Pharmacy Professional
Upon graduating with honors from the University Of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Jordan returned
to his hometown of Statesboro to work for the family business – Walker Pharmacy & Boutique. Since taking over management of the Market District location in the fall of 2014, Jordan has been striving to learn all the complicated ropes of a local company 35 years in the making. Aside from his primary roles as husband to Kelcie and father to newborn daughter Emerson, Jordan enjoys building meaningful relationships with his clients and strives to provide unrivaled service and care to every individual that chooses to use Walker Pharmacy & Boutique.
Future
“Whereas at one time my career goals basically reflected the famed
‘American Dream,’ they have now been transformed by the light of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote that we are to labor in honest work so that we might have something in our pockets to share with anyone in need. My ultimate goal in business is to pursue excellence through the company my parents built in a way that honors them and glorifies God.”
Congratulations! One of Bulloch County’s Top 20 under 40, is our very own
Jordan Walker!
Shop online at
Market District • Northside Drive www.walkerboutique.com Brooklet www.walkerrx.com
14 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Kyle Williams Age: 36 Title: CFO and Agent, Brinson, Williams & Groomes Insurance Professional
Kyle began his insurance career in 2005 after graduating from Georgia Southern University. After
ten years in the business, he was named partner in the agency formerly known as Brinson & Dixon Insurance. Since becoming a partner, Kyle was named Chief Financial Officer and has been charged with finding new opportunities for growth. Civically, Kyle serves on board of directors for the Statesboro Exchange Club, is the Vice President of Management Development for Statesboro Jaycees and a past board member for Leadership Bulloch Alumni Association.
Future
“Statesboro/Bulloch County is a great place to live and work. It is my per-
sonal goal to ensure that our local community thrives for generations to come. I am honored to be able to assist in the growth of Statesboro through my service with these organizations. Professionally, I am looking forward to expanding our agency as Statesboro and the surrounding area continue to flourish. It is very important our agency never lose the mindset that strong bonds with our clients, along with their best interest at heart, are our top priorities.”
Congratulations 2017 20 Under 40 Honorees! Past Professional Women of Statesboro 20 Under 40 Honorees: 2015: Mindy Fair, Arbonne 2014: Leslie Cushner, Taulbee, Rushing, Snipes, Marsh and Hodgin, LLC Valerie Thompson, Statesboro Real Estate Christina Young, Dabbs, Hickman, Hill and Cannon, LLP America Minc Georgia Southern University & PWS Member
Meagan Johnson Holiday Inn Statesboro & PWS Member
Molly Bickerton Ogeechee Technical College & PWS Member
Professional Women of Statesboro meets the 3rd Wednesday of every month, except June & July, at 12pm at the Holiday Inn. For more information, please visit www.professionalwomenofstatesboro.org Like us on Facebook - facebook.com/professionalwomenofstatesboro
2013: Tina Banks, Kidovations Mandy Edwards, ME Marketing Services Jennifer Mock, The Mock Law Firm 2011: Theresa Beebe-Novotny, Georgia Southern University Daphne Totten, Ogeechee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office 2010: Sharri Edenfield Lindsey, Edenfield, Cox, Bruce & Classens, PC
Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017 – 15
Joel Wright Age: 37 Title: Director of EEO & Title IX, Georgia Southern University Professional
After graduating from Statesboro High School, Joel joined the United States Marine Corps. He
served in the Marines for nearly 13 years. During that time, Joel earned a B.S. in Political Science from Georgia Southern and his Juris Doctor from Michigan State University, College of Law. At Georgia Southern, he serves as the director of Equal Opportunity & Title IX. He is a current Board member of Statesboro Main Street Farmer’s Market and past Board Chairman of the Hearts and Hands Clinic. Joel and his wife, Amy, are members of Trinity Presbyterian Church and have six children, Ellie Jane (11), Lucy (10), Lizzie (8), Jack (6), Henry (3) and Charlie (1).
Future
“My long term goals include continued spiritual growth with a focus on
being the best husband to my wife and father to our children that I can be. My father, perhaps channeling the late-great Erk Russell, once gave me the advice to ‘do the next right thing,’ and I use that advice on a daily basis. My goal is to utilize my education and experience to best serve the students, faculty, and staff during this exciting time for Eagle Nation.”
Congratulations we are so proud of you! Top 20 Under 40 2017
Sandi Hirsch Kirkland Love, Th he ERA A Hiirsch Rea al Estate Team
HIRSCH REAL ESTATE TEAM
912.764.6774 408 S. Zettterower Ave. Statesboro, GA 30458
16 - Statesboro Herald – 20 Under 40 – April 27, 2017
Con ong ng grrra atttuuullla a atttiiiooonnnss too a Meagan Johnson, Holiday Inn’s Director of Sales and Marketing!
455 Commerce Dr, Statesboro, GA 30458 (912) 489-4545 www.ihg.com