Meet Our Team

staff

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR - Austin Stacy

Austin Stacy has served as the Executive Director since the beginning of 2024. He previously served in the office U.S. Congressman Rick Allen where he oversaw the operations and constituent services of the district offices in Statesboro and Vidalia, Georgia. Stacy received his Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a concentration in Pre-Law from the University of North Georgia and went on to receive his Master of Arts in Intelligence and Security Studies with a concentration in Social Influence from Augusta University. He is passionate about community-driven development, believing that economic growth should uplift residents and improve quality of life. His collaborative approach ensures that business growth aligns with the county’s long-term vision for quality development.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR - Stephanie Folker

Stephanie Folker has been with the Development Authority of Burke County since 2012.  Prior to joining the Authority in 2012, Stephanie served as International Sales Assistant at a local book distributor for 9 years.  Stephanie is responsible for daily office operations at the DABC, including coordination of accounts payable/receivable,  administrative preparation for client meetings and visits, and correspondence with community and regional partners.  She also provides support services for the Burke County Chamber of Commerce, and serves as the primary point of contact for Visitor Center inquiries.  Stephanie is also a graduate of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development.

board of directors

CHAIRMAN - Lindsai Gentry (The Mobley-Gentry Firm)

VICE CHAIRMAN - Don Crawford  (Regional Vice President, Fortegra)

SECRETARY - Suzanne Sharkey (Local Manager, Georgia Power Company)

Henry Hopkins, III (Hopkins Farm)

Charles Green, Jr. (Vice President, C&C Concrete and Grading)

Barrett Wimberly  (GE Grid Solutions)

John Jackson, II (Senior Vice President, Queensborough National Bank & Trust Co.)

Merv Waldrop - Advisor to the Board & Treasurer