GAINESVILLE, GA — This week, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) recognized former Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce President Julie Paysen as a Special Georgian of the Ninth to honor her incredible impact on the local community.
On Monday, Congressman Clyde surprised Julie with the award during lunch at the X-Factor Grill in Toccoa. The working lunch featured Julie and her husband, Pastor Steve Paysen; Toccoa-Stephens Chamber of Commerce President Tessa Reavis; Stephens County Development Authority (SCDA) President & CEO Brittany Ivey; Stephens County Commissioner Tara Simmons; SCDA Board Member Cassandra Wilkins; SCDA Treasurer Rick Phillips; City of Toccoa Commissioner Terry Carter; Stephens County Hospital CEO Van Loskoski; Fieldale Farms CFO Eddie Elrod; and SCDA Assistant to President & CEO Sadie Hawkins.
After delivering remarks highlighting Julie’s economic achievements and civic involvement, Rep. Clyde presented her with a Special Georgian of the Ninth certificate.
“Whether fostering economic prosperity in Toccoa or spreading the Gospel with her husband, Julie’s passion to serve and ultimately strengthen the local community is deeply admirable,” said Clyde. I’m honored to award Julie as a Special Georgian of the Ninth, and I’m thankful for her dedication to improve the lives and futures of our fellow Northeast Georgians. I’m confident that the fruits of her labor will continue to grow and shine throughout Stephens County for decades to come.”
Julie Paysen served as the President of the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce from 2014 to 2026. During her tenure, the Chamber achieved a prestigious 5-Star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce — an impressive distinction held by only 129 local chambers nationwide. Julie herself was recognized as a Georgia Certified Chamber Executive by the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Additionally, as the official Film Liaison for Stephens County's Camera Ready Community initiative, Julie successfully facilitated multiple film, music video, and television productions — generating over $1.5 million dollars in revenue for local businesses.
While Julie retired as Chamber President earlier this summer, she remains active in the local community through board memberships and organizations. She now serves alongside her husband, Steve Paysen, dedicating her time to spreading the Gospel through his ministry.
Background
Throughout the year, Rep. Clyde recognizes Special Georgians of the Ninth to honor constituents, businesses, and organizations for making a difference in North Georgia.
