GAINESVILLE, GA — Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) honored Retired Jackson County Sheriff Janis Mangum as the first recipient of the Special Georgian of the Ninth award.

The announcement marks the launch of Rep. Clyde’s Special Georgian of the Ninth honor. Throughout the year, Clyde will recognize constituents, small businesses, or organizations in Georgia’s Ninth District for making a difference in North Georgia.

Rep. Clyde Honors Janis Mangum as Special Georgian of the Ninth

[Jackson County Sheriff Kevin McCook

& Retired Jackson County Sheriff Janis Mangum]

“It’s a privilege to name Janis Mangum as our very first Special Georgian of the Ninth,” said Clyde. “For nearly four decades, Janis selflessly served in the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, including twelve incredible years as Sheriff. Throughout her distinguished career in law enforcement, Sheriff Mangum worked tirelessly to combat crime and keep our communities safe. Her service goes well beyond Jackson County, as Janis has done inspiring work to help North Carolinians recover following the devastating destruction of Hurricane Helene. The Ninth District is blessed to have heroes like Janis Mangum, who continuously displays a true servant’s heart and unwavering devotion to our North Georgia community.”

As a lifelong Jackson County resident, Janis Mangum started her remarkable law enforcement career in 1985 as a radio operator at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. She advanced through each division on the force, working 19 years as a criminal investigator. In 2012, Mangum was elected to serve as Jackson County Sheriff. Notably, Mangum received the Georgia Sheriff’s Association’s 2023 Sheriff of the Year award. After 39 years of dedicated service, Mangum retired in December 2024.