The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of two new team members, reinforcing the Chamber’s continued investment in member engagement, community partnerships, and regional growth.

Gracie Taylor has joined the Chamber as the new Administrator and Public Relations Coordinator. A graduate of Kennesaw State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations and a minor in Marketing, Taylor brings a strong passion for communication, relationship-building, and community engagement. 

Originally from Georgia and recently relocated to Albany, Taylor previously served on Kennesaw State’s sales team, where she developed skills in professional communication and presentation. She also represented Georgia on the national stage as Miss Teen Georgia United States 2nd Runner-Up, an experience that strengthened her leadership, public speaking, and community advocacy skills 

In her role with the Chamber, Taylor will play a vital role in communications to members, event coordination, and administrative support across key focus areas including membership engagement, sponsorship development, and community initiatives.

The Chamber also announced that Dan Gillan will serve in a part-time role as Coordinator of Military Affairs, formalizing what has already been years of dedicated leadership and service within the organization. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel with more than 32 years of active-duty service, Gillan brings extensive leadership experience and a deep understanding of military-community partnerships 

Gillan recently retired as President and CEO of the Albany Area YMCA in 2025 and has long been an active leader within the Chamber, serving on the Executive Board and as Chair of the Military Affairs Committee since 2017.

In this new capacity, he will serve as the key conduit between the Chamber and Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, while continuing to strengthen initiatives supporting local veterans, the Blue Star Outpost Community Initiative, and the Albany Young Marines.

“We are intentionally building a stronger team to lead the Chamber forward, with both of these new roles representing needs of our organization and community” said Matt Reed, Interim President & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. “Gracie and Dan each bring unique strengths that enhance how we serve our members — from strategic communication and engagement to deep military and community partnerships. This is about strengthening our staff so we can better connect businesses, create meaningful engagement opportunities, and continue moving Albany and it’s business community forward.”

As the Chamber continues to grow its team and expand its impact, attention now turns to the 116th Annual Chamber Dinner, set for Thursday, April 23rd, in Downtown Albany. This signature event will bring together business and community leaders to celebrate progress, partnerships, and the shared vision driving Albany forward. With a strengthened staff and renewed focus on engagement, the Chamber looks ahead to 2026 with energy, purpose, and a commitment to serving its members at the highest level.

For information about the Chamber Annual Dinner and other events, visit www.albanyga.com.