Greater Atlanta Chamber Names Jan Paul Woman of Distinction

The local organization honored the former community leader during an annual luncheon held this week.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Awards

Bold vector editorial illustration of an open gateway, representing community recognition and civic contribution in a contemporary graphic style. — Jan Paul has been named the 2026 Woman of Distinction by the Greater Atlanta Perimeter Chamber for her extensive civic leadership. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Greater Atlanta Perimeter Chamber has named Jan Paul its 2026 Woman of Distinction. She was selected from a field of 44 finalists during a luncheon held to celebrate regional contributions.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the ongoing impact of local leaders on civic engagement and charitable programs across the region. It also underscores the diverse candidate pool that includes business owners, government officials, and non-profit directors.

The selection process reviewed 44 finalists from diverse professional backgrounds. The award recipient is credited with serving more than 12,000 foster children through Georgia's Secret Santa program.

The players

Jan Paul

She is the former executive director of Leadership Sandy Springs and current chair of the Sandy Springs Civic Roundtable.

Greater Atlanta Perimeter Chamber

This organization supports business growth and civic development across local communities including Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, and Brookhaven.

Lorraine Cochran-Johnson

She is the CEO of DeKalb County who served as the keynote speaker for the award ceremony.

Andrea Sharper

She was recognized as one of the two runners-up for the 2026 Woman of Distinction award.

Tasha McCall

She was recognized as one of the two runners-up for the 2026 Woman of Distinction award.

The details

Jan Paul, who currently chairs the Sandy Springs Civic Roundtable, was recognized for a career that included a 16-year tenure on the Georgia Public Broadcasting Board of Trustees. Andrea Sharper and Tasha McCall were also honored as runners-up at the event, which featured DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson as the keynote speaker.

Jan Paul retired from her role at Leadership Sandy Springs in 2021.
The award luncheon took place on October 21, 2026.

Culture Shift

This award marks a significant milestone in the regional civic landscape by highlighting the transition from institutional leadership to community-based volunteerism. It follows the long-term governance standards set by the Georgia Public Broadcasting Board of Trustees mandate.

Residents may see an increase in visibility for the community programs supported by the Sandy Springs Civic Roundtable, which comprises 40 local non-profits. The recognition may also influence public awareness regarding the ongoing needs of the local foster care system.

The takeaway

Recognizing long-term volunteers encourages continued civic participation among residents in local leadership roles. Establishing a track record of service in organizations like the Civic Roundtable remains a primary pathway to community influence.