JEKYLL ISLAND, GA – The Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (GACCE) proudly presented its 2026 Legacy Award to Debra “Debbie” Evans, IOM, Executive Vice President of the Greater Vidalia® Chamber of Commerce, during the association’s Executive Leadership Conference held July 7–10 at the Jekyll Island Club Resort in Jekyll Island, Georgia.
The GACCE Legacy Award recognizes long-term chamber executives who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation while building stronger chambers, businesses, and communities throughout their careers.
Evans has dedicated 37 years to the Greater Vidalia® Chamber, where her visionary leadership has transformed both the organization and the region it serves. Throughout her distinguished career, she has consistently embraced innovation, creating programs and initiatives that have strengthened the local business community while positioning the Chamber as a catalyst for economic growth.
Among her many accomplishments are the development of Leadership Greater Vidalia, which has helped cultivate hundreds of community leaders; the implementation of the Chamber’s successful REACH Total Resource Campaign, dramatically expanding the organization’s capacity to serve its members; and the creation of Summit, a leadership and business development program designed to equip local business professionals for success. Most recently, Evans led the vision for the Greater Vidalia® Center for Rural Entrepreneurship, a transformative initiative providing entrepreneurs with the resources, mentorship, and collaborative environment needed to launch and grow successful businesses.
In addition to her many contributions to her community, Evans has been a dedicated supporter of the chamber profession. A graduate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management, she has long encouraged professional development among chamber executives and staff while generously mentoring colleagues across Georgia. Her commitment to GACCE and her willingness to share her experience have made a lasting impact on chamber professionals throughout the state.
We are honored to recognize Debbie with GACCE’s 2026 Legacy Award.
CONTACT:
Tiffany Fulmer Ott
Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives
(404) 312-0524
tfulmer@tlfexecutiveservices.com
