-
Staff Members
-
Valencia Williamson
President & CEO
Phone: (678) 610-4021
Email: vwilliamson@claytonchamber.orgValencia Williamson is the President & CEO of Clayton County Chamber of Commerce where she oversees all aspects of the organization. Prior to her current role, Williamson served as Executive Vice President of the Area Development Partnership (ADP) in Hattiesburg, Mississippi where she led the organization’s Chamber of Commerce Division for ten years. Before joining the ADP in 2010, Williamson served as Vice President at Walton Area Chamber of Commerce in Santa Rosa Beach, FL.
A graduate of Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University, Williamson has a 20-year career as a Chamber of Commerce professional and she retains an extensive background in organization management, membership development, program implementation, and strategic partnerships. Williamson has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi and has completed the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Institute for Organization Management. Williamson serves on the board of directors for The First Bancshares, Inc., The First Bank, and the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA).
Williamson is an avid tennis enthusiast, and she spends much of her downtime playing with her two pups Jaxon and Roxy, and hanging out with family & friends who affectionately refer to her as "V."
Olivia Rankin
Business Development Coordinator
Phone: (678) 822-4370
Email: olivia@claytonchamber.orgOlivia Rankin serves as Business Development Coordinator, and she is responsible for recruiting new Chamber members, promoting Chamber programs, and providing relevant value-added information that helps businesses to leverage the Chamber's many resources. Olivia is an avid enthusiast of all things business, having experience as a solopreneur, and leveraging her acumen to assist other business owners with strategic planning, marketing, and organizational development through her business Renewed Marketing Solutions, LLC. Olivia holds a BA in Marketing from Columbus State University and is on track to complete an MBA in 2024 from Clayton State University where she is a recipient of the School of Business Masters Entrepreneur's Award. Olivia is actively engaged with several nonprofit organizations, helping to fulfill their missions. Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Olivia has grown to appreciate the laid-back, tight-knit communities of suburban Atlanta, and rural Georgia. She loves to travel and is always up for a good adventure, whether it's taking a road trip, glamping in an RV, or driving fast cars and motorbikes.
Interested in a membership? Olivia is your point of contact. Don’t hesitate to contact her directly at olivia@claytonchamber.org or 678-822-4370.
Dr. Atawanna Royal Baxter
Program Manager (Education Initiatives & Leadership Clayton)
Email: rbaxter@claytonchamber.orgAs an accomplished higher education leader with over 15 years of experience in academic administration, student affairs, student engagement, and educational policy, Dr. Royal Baxter’s work is driven by the mission to create opportunities in education for one to not only survive but to thrive. Dr. Baxter holds a Doctor of Education with a concentration in educational leadership from Georgia Southern University and has a strong track record of implementing strategic initiatives that enhance student success and promote academic excellence. A passionate advocate for education and community engagement, Dr. Baxter actively collaborates with education leaders, community leaders, corporate industry leaders, and the business community to create impactful educational experiences. Dr. Baxter is committed to mentorship and community service, believing in the transformative power of education to change lives.
Dr. Baxter is a native of Savannah, Georgia and has resided in Clayton County for 20 years. She is a devoted wife and mother and an active member of her daughter’s PTSA serving as the Vice-President of the chapter. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she serves on the Collegiate Transition Committee for the Atlanta Suburban Alumnae Chapter. Dr. Baxter is an avid sports fanatic always rooting for the home teams, especially her beloved Atlanta Falcons!Tammary Scott DowdellEvents Specialist
Email: tammary27@yahoo.comA native of Atlanta, Tammary has leveraged her creative talents to execute countless successful events, bringing ideas to life and designing unforgettable experiences. As the Chamber's Events Specialist, Tammary plans and curates the organization's monthly and signature events, providing expert full scale service and impeccable attention to detail. Tammary is known for orchestrating high-profile events for elected officials, crafting stunning décor for dream weddings, and partnering with esteemed companies to deliver exceptional corporate events with precision and style. Tammary's creative vision and unwavering dedication to her craft have enabled her to serve thousands across Atlanta and beyond, designing luxurious, one-of-a-kind experiences that leave a lasting impression for years to come.Gerrian HawesCommunications & PR Specialist
Email: ghawes@southatlantamedia.comWith over 17 years of experience, Gerrian is a dedicated, community-driven leader passionate about empowering women through strategic branding and innovative storytelling. As a Communications & PR Specialist, she is often seen in the community capturing content and sharing the stories of our members. Gerrian's strong background in creative direction and brand communication has allowed her to excel at transforming visions into impactful initiatives that resonate with diverse audiences. Her mission is to amplify voices, promote equitable opportunities, and drive positive change within the community. Through her work, Gerrian strives to be a catalyst for empowerment and excellence, championing the achievements of women and fostering a more inclusive, dynamic community.
Craig Oliver Jr.
Member Engagement Intern
(404) 610-4021
membership@claytonchamber.orgCraig Oliver Jr. is the Chamber's Member Engagement Intern. He promotes the organization, helps to attract and retains members, drives revenue growth, and strengthens relationships to reduce attrition.
A dedicated entrepreneur and leader, Craig Oliver is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management and Leadership at Morris Brown College, with graduation expected in May 2025. His studies have equipped him with the skills to develop strategic solutions, lead teams effectively, and drive business growth. Craig is passionate about building meaningful relationships and has a natural talent for crafting innovative sales strategies that create lasting impact.
Guided by his faith, he strives to align his professional work with his mission to inspire and uplift others through the word of God. After graduation, he plans to leverage his education and entrepreneurial experience to empower communities and build ventures rooted in excellence and purpose.
Madison WilliamsStudent Intern
(678) 610-4021
Email: communications@claytonchamber.orgMadison Williams is the Chamber's student intern, and she assists the team with administrative and communications-related tasks. A senior at Jonesboro High School, Madison plans to attend Clark Atlanta University in the fall to major in Political Science. Madison is an active member of the Jonesboro High School Cheer Team, serves as the School-Wide President, and is involved in the Beta Club, among many other extracurricular activities.
In addition to her academic and leadership pursuits, Madison owns and operates Privado Events, a balloon garland event service. Although she plans to continue her cheerleading endeavors at Clark Atlanta University, in her downtime she enjoys spending time with her siblings and friends.
Madison is passionate about leadership, community involvement, and entrepreneurship, and she is excited to continue her academic and personal growth as she embarks on her college journey.