Athens Chamber Staff
David Bradley
President & CEO
David came to Athens in 2018, bringing years of experience from his time serving as president of two Chambers of Commerce in North Carolina. Before joining the Chamber industry in 1998, he ran a plastics extrusion plant. David embraced all the challenges and opportunities presented in his current role and loves working within the Athens community.
What is your favorite thing about Athens?
Big city amenities with small-town charm.
Favorite Athens event?
Favorite food?
Pizza with cold beer. Well... anything with cold beer, really.
Fun fact?
I have acted in, directed, and/or re-written around 40 community theater shows.
Kim Childs
Director of Programs
Marissa Chastain
Director of Membership & Marketing
Marissa received a BFA in Art Education/Painting from the University of Georgia in 2012. She has professional experience in customer service and marketing. Prior to working with the Chamber, she was engaged in several capacities including Ambassador and Chair of the Small Business Breakfast Club. Marissa oversees the Chamber’s membership growth and marketing efforts.
What is your favorite thing about Athens?
I love that there's always something fun to do in Athens. Community events, a vibrant arts scene, beautiful parks, local music - what's not to love!
What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?
I always loved volunteering with the chamber and attending events as a Chamber member. I'm passionate about the Athens community and seeing local businesses thrive, so this role was a natural fit.
Fun fact?
I enjoy singing and playing guitar/ukulele. I have enjoyed the opportunity to perform at a few local spots like the Foundry, 40 Watt, and the Athens Farmers Market.
Becky Beasley
Accountant
Becky is a CPA and has vast experience working in several different financial positions. She was a Financial Services Manager and Financial Analyst for Coca-Cola affiliated companies and on audit staff for public accounting firms Grant Thorton and Deloitte, just to name a few. Â She helps us track all of our financials and makes sure that we stay in budget.
What is your favorite thing about Athens?
The energy and the eclectic events
Favorite Athens event?
Athens Twilight Criterium
Favorite local restaurant?
Seabear Oyster Bar
I'm originally from Oklahoma and graduated from the University of Arkansas, but I love UGA and the Dawgs!
Favorite movie?
When Harry Met Sally
Seth Bagwell
Membership Sales
What is your favorite thing about Athens?
I like that Athens can have that big city feel while still having aspects of a small town.
Favorite Athens event?
Twilight
Favorite Food?
Steak and Gravy
Fun Fact?
I once had the pleasure of meeting Don Rickles.
Favorite Movie?
Casablanca
Bryan Torres
Intern
Bryan is a senior at The University of Georgia, majoring in economics with a certificate in legal studies. He is a member of Alpha Sigma Phi at the UGA. When not working or studying, he enjoys hiking and playing sports.
What is your favorite thing about Athens?Â
UGA is my favorite!
What is your favorite event in Athens?Â
The football games.
What is your favorite movie?
Spiderman No Way Home
What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?
I joined because I wanted to gain valuable experience working in a professional setting, while getting to know businesses within the community.
Angel Akintoye
Intern
Angel is a senior at the University of Georgia, pursuing a degree in Political Science with a minor in International Affairs and a concentration in Pre-Law. Passionate about community engagement, she has remained actively involved throughout her college career. At UGA, Angel serves as the Community Outreach Director for the Arch Policy Institute. Her experience extends beyond campus, having interned with the Office of U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff and contributed to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives as a DEI intern at Flagstar Bank.
Athens is a vibrant and welcoming city, rich in diversity, from its food to its people. The community here is tight-knit, offering a strong support system where you can always find help and encouragement, no matter what you need.
What is your favorite event in Athens?Â
The football games.
Fun fact:Â
 I have a passion for travel and have explored countries like France, South Africa, the U.K., and Ghana. My goal is to visit over thirty countries in the future and continue discovering new places and cultures.
What made you consider working at the Athens Chamber?
Bowen Kramer
Intern
Bowen is a Senior Political Science student at the University of Georgia. Bowen’s campus involvement and leadership has included serving as Secretary and Events Coordinator of Pi Sigma Alpha (a Political Science Honors Society), D2 Varsity Track Athlete, and RUF Connections team. Internship experience includes working at the Macon-Bibb County Solicitor General’s Office as a Victim-Witness Advocate and the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce.
What is your favorite thing about Athens?
I love all the unique spots around town many in places you would not expect. Athens has a rare energy with people making music, trying new foods, enjoying nature, and loving life. People seem to love learning, trying new things, and experiencing community.
Favorite Athens event?
UGA Football game, Night Games at Samford Stadium, and Athens Twilight
Fun fact
I have umpired youth baseball and softball for 7 years.
Why did you want to work at the Chamber
After serving my hometown with the Macon Chamber, I wanted to learn more about the Athens community. I enjoy learning about the relationship between government, business, and the community. Working for the Chamber provides education and skill development in the areas of economic development, community engagement, workforce development, and more. Chambers provide a direct positive and often fun direction for a city that is unmatched by many other organizations.
