The Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG or Georgia’s County Association) recently honored Fayette County Administrator Steve Rapson with the 2024 Leadership Development Advocate of the Year Award during the Association’s Annual Conference in Chatham County.
The Leadership Development Advocate of the Year Award is presented to a county official who continuously seeks to expand their knowledge of local government to help them manage the ever-changing challenges counties face.
“The ACCG Awards & Recognition Program annually celebrates Georgia’s county leaders,” said Executive Director Dave Wills. “Steve Rapson’s dedication to fostering a culture of continuous learning and understanding of county government is truly inspiring. Whether expanding educational opportunities within his county or encouraging others to participate in ACCG Lifelong Learning opportunities, Steve’s passion for knowledge and desire to empower others exemplifies the spirit of leadership. Congratulations to him on this well-deserved recognition.”
Rapson was recognized for his visionary leadership and commitment to providing educational opportunities for Fayette County employees. Under his guidance, initiatives were implemented to promote education, including expanding financial incentives for department heads and assistant department heads to become certified county officials.
“This forward-thinking approach has yielded impressive results, with 21 individuals recognized as Certified County Officials since 2014,” the ACCG news release said. “Rapson’s leadership underscores Fayette County’s commitment to investing in the professional development of its county workforce.”
“Leadership is easy when you have a group of Department Heads who are at the top of their game. Providing guidance and direction is something I was instilled in me by my father and imprinted upon me in the Marines. I’m humbled to be recognized for my part of the senior leadership of what makes Fayette County great,” Rapson said.
ACCG is Georgia’s county association and works on behalf of county officials and their communities by providing public policy and legislative advocacy, leadership development, civic and community engagement initiatives, insurance and retirement programs that specialize in local government needs and other cost-saving programs. Formed in 1914 when county officials came together to help fund the state’s first highway department, ACCG today serves as a catalyst for advancing Georgia’s counties. For more information, go to www.accg.org.
