The ACCG Georgia Counties (ACCG or Georgia’s County Association) recognized more than 100 county officials for completing requirements in the ACCG Lifelong Learning Academy. Recipients were presented with their achievement certificates during the association’s 2026 Legislative Leadership Conference at The Classic Center in Athens-Clarke County. Three Floyd County Commissioners were honored for successfully completing requirements in the Lifelong Learning Academy.
Chair Rhonda Wallace completed the Economic and Community Development specialty track.
Commissioner Allison Watters completed the County Operations and Management specialty track.
Commissioner David Thornton completed core requirements.
ACCG and the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia (CVIOG) have collaborated for more than two decades to provide county officials with supplemental training and educational tools in the Lifelong Learning Academy. With abundant courses from which they may choose, every county official has a tailor-made learning experience that allows them to excel in specific areas of expertise.
“The Lifelong Learning Academy provides county officials with valuable knowledge of the fundamentals of county government while also keeping them current on emerging issues and trends,” said ACCG Executive Director Dave Wills. “By investing in their education, county leaders strengthen their ability to respond effectively to challenges and make a meaningful difference in their communities. I commend each commissioner for their dedication to continued learning and to better understanding the community they serve.”
The Lifelong Learning Academy was created with input from county commissioners who identified courses based on the issues and decision-making challenges regularly faced by county officials. To ensure the course requirements and curriculum remain relevant and engaging, the ACCG Lifelong Learning Committee – which comprises county commissioners and staff from both ACCG and CVIOG – meet regularly to review and adjust accordingly. Through this collaborative approach, the Lifelong Learning Academy has been successful in equipping county officials with the necessary skills to meet the needs of their constituents.
“After 14 years of public service, I know there is always more to learn,” said Chair Rhonda Wallace. “I appreciate ACCG for giving us opportunities to continue our education, strengthen our leadership, and bring that knowledge back home to better serve Floyd County. I am honored to receive the recognition, but I am just as proud to celebrate the accomplishments of my fellow Commissioners. Each of these achievements reflects a commitment to continued learning and public service, and that commitment is important to the future of our community.” ###
ACCG is Georgia’s county association and works on behalf of county officials and their communities by providing public policy and legislative advocacy, leadership development, civic and community engagement initiatives, insurance and retirement programs that specialize in local government needs and other cost-saving programs. Formed in 1914 when county officials came together to help fund the state’s first highway department, ACCG today serves as a catalyst for advancing Georgia’s counties. For more information, go to www.accg.org.
