Continuing a decades-old tradition, the Gainesville Jaycees selected two community leaders Thursday night as their 2018 Young Man of the Year and Young Woman of the Year.
The annual awards recognize young leaders in Hall County for their achievements in leadership and service to the community.
"Much is expected of these honorees," said Chris Wunn, President of Gainesville Jaycees, in a statement prior to the awards ceremony, reflecting on past winners. "They have continued their service to the community long after their award, going on to serve in positions such as federal judge, U.S. Congressman, Governor, bank president and generous philanthropist."
The 2017 recipients, Drew Echols and Bethany Magnus, presented the 2018 awards at the Chattahoochee Country Club.
Magnus praised Jenny Floyd for her community contributions prior to naming her as the 2018 Young Woman of the Year. Floyd, a native of Dalton, has been an active part of the Gainesville community ever since she and her husband Jimbo, moved to the city. Among her many activities, Floyd is a member of the Junior League of Gainesville and the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Auxiliary, serving as a tri-chair for the group's 2018 Marketplace.
Echols paid tribute to John Simpson as the 2018 Young Man of the Year, giving him a little bit of a roast from the podium, but also praising him for his role as the Assistant Head of School for Lakeview Academy, as well as his community service to United Way, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the Gainesville Parks and Recreation Board.
"The stories of John investing time into kids’ loves could go on all night. The lives you have touched at 40-years-old are amazing," Echols said.
The Young Man of the Year award dates back to 1945, and the Young Woman of the Year honor has been awarded since 2001.
