TOCCOA, Ga. — Julie Paysen will resign as president of the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce effective June 30, ending an 11-year tenure marked by business growth and community partnerships, the chamber’s board of directors announced Tuesday.
Paysen informed the board of her decision following what she described as a period of prayer and reflection. In a resignation letter, she thanked board members, business partners and community leaders for their support and called the role “one of the most meaningful and rewarding chapters” of her career.
“I remain incredibly proud of all we have accomplished together and am confident the future of our Chamber is bright,” Paysen wrote. She said she plans to begin a new season working full time in ministry with her husband, Pastor Steve Paysen.
Board Chair Cassandra Wilkins praised Paysen’s leadership and service, citing her efforts to strengthen local businesses, foster relationships and cultivate partnerships with local, state and federal leaders.
“Her passion for strengthening local businesses, fostering relations, cultivating partnership between local, state and federal leaders have truly elevated our Chamber and community,” Wilkins said in a statement.
The board has begun a search for Paysen’s successor. Chamber leaders said they will continue to support Paysen and her team in the coming months to ensure continuity of leadership and operations.
Paysen’s departure comes amid recent leadership changes at the neighboring Habersham County Chamber of Commerce, where three senior leaders resigned late last year. The Habersham chamber subsequently named Kasey Holcomb as its new president.
In addition to her chamber role, Paysen and her husband are founders of the P230 Foundation, an evangelistic organization that supports missionaries worldwide, as well as The Hope Center of Toccoa and Steve Paysen Ministries.
Paysen will remain in her position through June 30.
