The Barrow County government has named a new Emergency Management Agency Director.
Sharon Courson will fill the role left vacant by Penny Clack, who retired in 2024. Courson currently serves as EMA Director for Gilmer County, where she oversees emergency planning, disaster response and community preparedness initiatives. She also previously served as Deputy EMA Director for Glynn and Wayne counties.
“Sharon’s expertise in emergency preparedness and operations will be a tremendous asset to Barrow County,” Srikanth Yamala, Barrow County Manager, said. “Her ability to build and cultivate relationships with our key partners will ensure the county remains ready and resilient in times of crisis.”
Courson is a Georgia Certified Emergency Manager and holds a diploma in Data Processing and Accounting from Valdosta Technical College.
“I am honored to take on this role and do not take this responsibility lightly,” Courson said. “I look forward to working with county officials, first responders, and the community to ensure our emergency management system remains second to none.”
Courson will officially take on the role on March 17.
