Shar’ron W. Russell serves as the Regional Economic Development Manager for Georgia Power’s Metro South Region, where she works directly with cities, counties, and business leaders to strengthen local economies. In her role, she leads initiatives in strategic planning, leadership development, workforce readiness, and business retention and expansion — ensuring communities are positioned for long-term growth and competitiveness.

With more than 27 years at Georgia Power, Russell brings a deep understanding of the utility industry, having worked across marketing, sales, system planning, design, construction, and operations. Her broad expertise allows her to bridge the needs of local governments, existing industries, and new companies exploring the region.

A committed community leader, Russell is actively involved on several boards, including the ATL Airport Chamber, Create Your Dreams, WorkSource Fulton, Livable Buckhead, and Premier Academy. She is also a graduate of Leadership Clayton, LEAD Atlanta, and the YWCA’s Georgia Women’s Policy Institute. Russell is passionate about education, economic mobility, and creating opportunities for women, youth, and families. She lives in Fayetteville with her husband and daughter.

Michelle Taylor Willis is an award-winning media executive, author, speaker, and entrepreneur, serving as the Founder and CEO of Gagnant Media and Publisher of SoFu Lifestyle Magazine. Her influence extends across the “Atlanta to DC Corridor,” where she is a trusted thought partner to political, civic, and economic leaders. She has been recognized among Atlanta’s “Top 25 Most Powerful Women” and “Top 25 Most Extraordinary Atlantans,” with SoFu Lifestyle named “Publication of the Year” three times.

In addition to media leadership, Willis is the author of Raising Significance: A Guide to Well-Rounded, Independent, and Confident Kids, which was featured on the Tamron Hall Show. 

Her advocacy across the City of South Fulton has earned multiple proclamations and honors, including official recognition from the City of South Fulton, the Georgia General Assembly, and state leaders for her contributions to culture, business, and civic engagement.

A dedicated community leader, Willis serves in executive and advisory roles with organizations including the Atlanta-Fulton Library Foundation, South Fulton Chamber, Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, and United Way.

She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and remains deeply committed to service, leadership, and economic empowerment.

Teresa D. Parhams, TMP, GCED, is a seasoned economic development leader with more than a decade of experience driving business growth, redevelopment, and community revitalization. Over the past four years, she has advanced from Main Street Manager to Deputy Director of Economic Development for the City of South Fulton, where she leads strategic initiatives that strengthen commercial corridors, support small businesses, and expand economic opportunity.

Teresa launched the city’s flagship Old National District Program, guiding major redevelopment efforts and spearheading initiatives such as the Local 1st campaign and the Old National Grows Farmers Market, now in its third year supporting up to 25 entrepreneurs per event. She also served as the city’s lead project manager for the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Livable Centers Initiative (LCI), advancing long-term planning for walkable, business-friendly communities.

Her leadership extends to founding EmpowerHer, developing the South Fulton Small Business Development Accelerator, and managing programs such as the South Fulton Façade Grant, which has awarded more than $172,000 to small businesses. 

She is certified as a Tourism Marketing Professional and Georgia Certified Economic Developer.