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The Oak Society | Leadership Panel

Welcome: Oak Society Members & Guests


We’re here to celebrate community leadership and philanthropy!
Tonight’s program features an inspiring lineup of local changemakers — we invite you to explore their stories and impact in the bios below — and gather at 5:30PM to hear from them in-person.

 

John Byrd

President, Mansfield Energy

John Byrd has been a pivotal part of Mansfield since 2005. Over the years, he has held several key roles, including Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President of Mansfield Oil Company, and currently, President of Mansfield Energy. In his current role, John oversees the operations of Mansfield Energy’s entities: Mansfield Oil Company, Mansfield Service Partners, and Mansfield Power & Gas.

Before joining Mansfield, John was the Senior Vice President of Accounting and Administration and Corporate Controller at TransMontaigne, where he was responsible for both operational and back-office accounting. Prior to TransMontaigne, John was with Arthur Andersen in both the Audit and Business Process Outsourcing Divisions. In Audit, he worked in the upstream and midstream parts of the industry and worked on several IPO’s. While in the Outsourcing Division, he directed process consulting engagements for energy trading companies. Prior to starting his work career, John graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BS in Accounting from Louisiana State University.

Debbie Lawson Davis

Owner & CFO, Lawson Air

Debbie Lawson Davis is a seasoned entrepreneur and the Owner/CFO of Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing, a family-owned business in Northeast Georgia specializing in HVAC and plumbing services. With over three decades of experience in the industry, she has successfully managed day-to-day operations and strategic planning for a multi-million dollar enterprise.

Debbie’s background in communications, evidenced by her role as Communications Director at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, complements her business acumen. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Brenau University, which has undoubtedly contributed to her effective leadership skills. A recipient of the 2014 Master Entrepreneur award, Debbie is recognized for her contributions to the local business community. Her interests lie in fostering innovation and sustainable practices within the mechanical contracting sector. With a rich history in marketing and public relations, she has a unique perspective on business growth and customer engagement.

Brett Fowler

Executive Vice President - Employee Benefits, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Brett Fowler is a Vice President and Partner of Northeast Georgia’s largest and oldest independent insurance agency, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance. He joined the agency in 2008 upon graduating from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business with a major in Risk Management and Insurance. He specializes in individual and group Employee Benefits.

Brett has been a very active member of the Hall County community since moving back to Gainesville in 2008. He has served on many civic and nonprofit boards and committees including: the Gainesville Jaycees, United Way, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, Eagle Ranch and Georgia Mountain Food Bank. He and his wife, Laura, and their three children are members of Gainesville First United Methodist Church

Anna Jacobs

Board Member & Director of AccessWDUN+, Jacobs Media Corporation

Anna Alexander Jacobs is Director of AccessWDUN+ and a longtime leader in communications and digital media. Over her three decades with Jacobs Media, she has taken on nearly every role—ranging from promotions and client relations to digital strategy and board leadership—building a reputation for creativity, adaptability, and polished execution.

In addition to guiding AccessWDUN+ in social media and web design initiatives, Anna serves on multiple community and organizational boards, bringing her expertise in connecting people and fostering meaningful engagement. Her career reflects a commitment to innovation, teamwork, and service that continues to shape her leadership approach today.

Michelle Prater

President & CEO, North Georgia Community Foundation

Michelle R. Prater is President and CEO of the North Georgia Community Foundation (NGCF). Originally from Ohio, she earned degrees in marketing and management from the University of North Georgia, an MBA in Leadership Development from Brenau University, and is pursuing a Doctorate in Philanthropic Leadership at Indiana University’s Lilly School of Philanthropy.

Before joining the nonprofit sector, Michelle built a successful banking career and later held key roles at LDI Inc., MAP International, and United Way of Greater Atlanta. As a dedicated community leader, she serves on several boards including Brenau University, Philanthropy Southeast, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier. Her contributions have been nationally recognized, including features in Inside Philanthropy and Brenau University’s Community Service Award.

Thank you to Tonight’s Sponsors!

Interested in Learning More about The Oak Society?

Reach out to Abi Carter, VP of Strategic Initiatives:
acarter@ngcf.org or 770-535-7880.

CLICK HERE FOR THE OAK SOCIETY WEBSITE

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