The Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) recently honored two UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government faculty. Former Associate Director Mara Shaw Warrington and Leadership Development Manager Walt McBride received 2025 Leadership Development Advocate of the Year Awards during the association’s 2025 Annual Conference.
The Leadership Development Advocate of the Year Award is presented to individuals who continuously seek to expand their knowledge and/or pursue the knowledge and education that support the development of enhanced skills necessary for governing at the county level.
“The ACCG Awards & Recognition Program honors individuals whose leadership plays a pivotal role in shaping Georgia’s counties,” said ACCG Executive Director Dave Wills. “This year’s recipients are a testament to dynamic, strong leaders who equip leaders with the tools needed to serve their communities with commitment and honor.”
McBride was recognized for his insightful approach to developing the skills essential for effective county leadership and for guiding county officials in their pursuit of continued education.
“[McBride’s] unwavering dedication to advancing the education of others underscores his commitment to the values upon which the Lifelong Learning Academy was built and the important contributions it makes to ACCG’s Leadership Development programs,” the ACCG noted.
A familiar face within county government, Warrington has been a longtime supporter of the ACCG Lifelong Learning Academy. She retired from the university in December.
“Over the years, Warrington has made a lasting impact on both new and veteran county officials, inspiring them to continue their pursuit of knowledge to become better leaders. She has continuously supported and encouraged the development of the skills needed for effective governance while understanding how that development aligns with ACCG’s commitment to commissioners’ educational programming,” the ACCG said in a release.
The UGA Institute of Government is a longstanding partner of the ACCG. The two have collaborated for more than a decade to offer the Lifelong Learning Academy (LLA), providing essential training and certification programs to county governments across Georgia. The LLA has certified more than 3,000 county officials since its inception. The partnership also delivers the Newly Elected Commissioners Conference, which introduces incoming commissioners from across Georgia to county government. Training, required by state law for county commissioners in the first year in which they are elected, covers topics such as consensus-building, basic county services, and finances and budgeting.