Leadership Georgia has announced the recipients of its 2026 statewide awards, honoring five distinguished Georgians whose leadership, service and impact have strengthened communities and institutions across the state.

The 2026 honorees include business executives, nonprofit leaders, higher education advocates and civic changemakers whose work reflects Leadership Georgia’s mission of building a stronger, more connected Georgia through informed and collaborative leadership.

This year’s recipients are:

• William “Dink” NeSmith, Co-Owner, Community Newspapers Inc. - Smithonia Community in Oglethorpe County, Georgia
• Vann Parrott, Chief Operating Officer, Big Top Manufacturing - Thomasville, Georgia
• Jay Bailey, President and CEO, Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs - Atlanta, Georgia
• Kathryn Dennis, President, Community Foundation of Central Georgia -Macon, Georgia
• Jere Morehead, President, University of Georgia - Athens, Georgia

“Each of these nominees represents the best of Leadership Georgia, ” said Camila Knowles, Leadership Georgia Board of Trustees Chairman. “Their influence extends far beyond their individual professions or communities. Through service, innovation, mentorship and a deep commitment to Georgia, they have created lasting impact across our state and inspired others to lead with purpose. ”

The awards will be presented during the 2026 Leadership Georgia Alumni Gala on November 14.

William “Dink” NeSmith is the recipient of the 2026 J.W. Fanning Award, recognizing a Georgian whose statewide contributions through leadership and service have been broad in scope and transformative in impact. A respected business leader and philanthropist, NeSmith has demonstrated an enduring commitment to strengthening Georgia communities through civic engagement, economic leadership and charitable giving. His leadership reflects the legacy of J.W. Fanning, one of Leadership Georgia’s founders and a champion for statewide collaboration and progress.

Vann Parrott is the recipient of the 2026 Frederick B. Kerr Service Award, which recognizes extraordinary service and dedication to Leadership Georgia. For more than 25 years, Parrott has served Leadership Georgia in numerous leadership roles, including program chair, trustee and president. His influence has been especially impactful in southwest Georgia, where he has helped cultivate generations of engaged leaders and strengthen connections across communities throughout the region. Known for his steady leadership, institutional knowledge and unwavering willingness to serve, Parrott’s impact can be seen throughout the organization and across the state.

Jay Bailey is the recipient of the 2026 E. Dale Threadgill Community Service Award, which honors individuals whose leadership and service have created meaningful and lasting impact within their communities. A widely respected business and civic leader, Bailey has championed economic opportunity, workforce development and community advancement throughout Georgia. His work has focused on creating pathways for growth and collaboration while helping strengthen the connection between business leadership and community impact. Bailey’s commitment to service and innovation reflects the spirit of the award and Leadership Georgia’s belief that strong communities are built through intentional, people-centered leadership.

Kathryn Dennis is the recipient of the 2026 Judge Horace J. Johnson, Jr. and Michelle Bryant Johnson Distinguished Public Service Award. The award recognizes a Leadership Georgia alumna whose career in public service or the nonprofit sector reflects exceptional leadership, mentorship and commitment to community. As Executive Director of the Community Foundation of Central Georgia, Dennis has helped guide the organization’s growth and expand support for education, healthcare and nonprofit initiatives throughout the region. She is also a dedicated supporter of Leadership Georgia and has contributed her time, expertise and resources to strengthening both the organization and the communities it serves. Dennis exemplifies leadership rooted in service, collaboration and long-term community impact.

Jere Morehead is the recipient of the 2026 H.G. “Pat” Patillo Honorary Membership Award, presented to an individual who has not participated in a Leadership Georgia class but has demonstrated exceptional support for the organization and its mission. As President of the University of Georgia, Morehead has been a strong advocate for leadership development, higher education and civic engagement across the state. Through his support of Leadership Georgia, he has helped expand opportunities for collaboration, encouraged participation among emerging leaders and strengthened the organization’s connection to one of Georgia’s leading institutions. The award recognizes Morehead’s longstanding support of Leadership Georgia and his commitment to developing future leaders who will positively impact communities across Georgia.