First Lady Marty Kemp Receives Blanchard Servant Leadership Award
Monday, August 10th, 2026
On Aug. 5, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce presented the Georgia Chamber Blanchard Servant Leadership Award to First Lady Marty Kemp. Named in honor of former Synovus Chairman of the Board & CEO, Jim Blanchard, the Blanchard Servant Leadership Award recognizes a Georgia leader who exemplifies the highest ideals of servant leadership, civic engagement, and commitment to the greater good.
During her tenure, the First Lady has championed initiatives focused on supporting Georgia’s children and families, strengthening communities and expanding opportunities for Georgians across the state. She has led the charge to end human trafficking in Georgia through the formation of the Georgians for Refuge, Action, Compassion, and Education (GRACE) Commission. She also spearheaded the passage of eight pieces of legislation to combat human trafficking, each receiving overwhelming support from the Georgia General Assembly.
In addition to her work to end human trafficking, the First Lady has championed several initiatives focused on improving the lives of Georgians. Her priorities include promoting pet adoption, supporting Georgia agriculture and the Georgia Grown program at the Governor’s Mansion, advancing literacy and mental health awareness, and supporting foster care and adoption reform initiatives.
First Lady of Georgia Marty Kemp, said:
“I was truly humbled to receive the Blanchard Award this evening and have the opportunity to highlight all we're doing to combat human trafficking, raise awareness about mental health, and support pet adoption in Georgia. The progress we’ve made is the result of partnerships at every level, but we need everyone to continue working together to keep this momentum going.”
Jim Blanchard, Retired Chairman and CEO, Synovus, and Vice Chairman of the Board, Covey Equity said:
“(First Lady Marty Kemp) is a great lady! Congratulations to her and to the Committee for their outstanding selection for this year’s winner.”
Chris Clark, President and CEO, Georgia Chamber, said:
“The Georgia Chamber is proud to recognize First Lady Marty Kemp with the Blanchard Servant Leadership Award. Throughout her time as First Lady, Marty has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving others and improving communities across our state. Her compassion, leadership and dedication to the people of Georgia embody the values this award represents.”
The Blanchard Servant Leadership Award was presented during the Georgia Chamber’s 2026 Congressional Luncheon in Athens. The award presentation followed the announcement of Cox Enterprises as the recipient of the Georgia Chamber Corporate Citizen Award.
The full award announcement can be found on the Georgia Chamber’s YouTube channel.
The Georgia Chamber’s annual Congressional Luncheon brings together business leaders, elected officials, and community leaders from across the state to discuss the issues and opportunities shaping Georgia’s future.
