Candace Boothby

President and CEO

candace@newnancowetachamber.org
 

Candace Boothby celebrates 23 years as President & CEO of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber in 2026. A native Texan and proud fourth-generation Baylor Bear, Candace leads with vision, energy, and a deep commitment to community and excellence. In a surprising twist, she discovered that her great-great-grandmother was born in Coweta County in 1845, and her great-great-great-grandfather is buried in historic Oak Hill Cemetery — making her a generational Cowetan after all. Outside the office, Candace is a proud rescue dog mom to Charlie and Dolly, loves to travel,  especially with her girlfriends who are affectionately known as The Bella's.  She's an  avid reader, devouring  three to four books a month, with a soft spot for spy and FBI thrillers.

Valerie Ward

Executive Assistant & Office Manager

valerie@newnancowetachamber.org

Valerie Ward is the friendly force that keeps the Chamber running smoothly. Celebrating 25 years with the Chamber in 2026, Valerie serves as Executive Assistant and Office Manager, and is often the first smile members see — and the voice they trust. Known for exceptional customer service and deep institutional knowledge, she is beloved by members and staff alike. An Auburn University graduate in Art History, Valerie brings creativity, care, and calm to everything she does — and has a well-documented love of cats.

Nina McMichael

Member Engagement Manager

nina@newnancowetachamber.org 

Nina McMichael hails from Kentucky and is known for her caring customer service, thoughtful listening skills, and genuine kindness. A team player, Nina, in her third year with the Chamber,  is always willing to jump in wherever she’s needed — and does so with a positive spirit and a big heart. She loves her community, cherishes time with friends, and enjoys relaxing porch nights surrounded by good conversation. And for those who know her well, there’s one fun fact that never disappoints: Nina may just be the Chamber’s biggest Charlie Sheen fan.

Colleen Mitchell

Sales & Business Development Manager

colleen@newnancowetachamber.org
 

Meet Colleen Mitchell, sales powerhouse, member favorite, and certified get-it-done pro. With almost a decade at the Chamber and 40 years in the newspaper industry, Colleen knows people, business, and how to make things happen. Raised on a dairy farm in Illinois, she brings big-family energy and farm-bred work ethic to every relationship. When she’s not helping members succeed, you’ll find her traveling or on the sidelines cheering for college soccer teams coached by her daughter, Katie.

Phil Trickey

Special Projects Manager

phil@newnancowetachamber.org
 

Phil Trickey brings deep financial expertise, steady leadership, and a global perspective to the Chamber. A retired CFO of Yamaha Motor Manufacturing and former Chamber Board Chair, Phil has remained highly engaged in his “retirement,” continuing to provide invaluable support to the Chamber. He led the Small Business Digital Aid Program and currently manages the Coweta Works initiative, while also serving in an ad hoc role as Assistant Treasurer, offering trusted financial guidance shaped by decades of executive experience. Proud of his Canadian roots, Phil is an avid hockey fan — and player — lacing up weekly to stay competitive on the ice.

Cynthia Bennett

Special Projects Manager

cynthia@newnancowetachamber.org
 

Cynthia Bennett is the definition of servant leadership. A retired educator and former Georgia Economics Teacher of the Year, she has partnered with the Chamber for more than a decade and now facilitates its most impactful workforce development initiatives. A Citizen of the Year honoree, Cynthia has chaired the Coweta Community Foundation, leading tornado recovery efforts, and guided Meals on Wheels through critical periods of service. Today, she proudly works with many former students now shaping Coweta as business and community leaders.

Janet Marie Gunnels

Communications & Marketing Strategist

janet@newnancowetachamber.org 

Janet Marie Gunnels manages the Chamber’s member email communications, helping keep members informed, engaged, and connected. With two years at the Chamber, she brings a strong communications background from her previous role managing communications for Serenbe. Janet has a keen interest in politics, is actively involved in the Newnan Theatre, and enjoys traveling — experiences that inform her thoughtful approach to storytelling and engagement.

Beverly Garner

Administrative Support

info@newnancowetachamber.org

Beverly Garner is a beloved part of the Chamber family, stepping in whenever help is needed with front desk coverage, phone calls, and administrative support. Retired from TenCate (formerly Southern Mills), Beverly has been involved with the Chamber for more than 20 years, generously sharing her time and experience. She is active in the Pilot Club and previously served as Chair of the Powers Crossroads Festival Board, reflecting her deep commitment to community service. Known affectionately as “Miss Beverly,” she is loved by all — and is a proud grandmother and great-grandmother.