DULUTH, GA (July 3, 2025) |
Georgia United Credit Union is proud to announce the election of its 2025 Board of Directors Officers, a distinguished group of leaders whose service and experience will guide the organization through its next chapter of strategic growth, community impact and member-centered excellence.
Tom Dickson has been re-elected Board Chairman. Mr. Dickson is the Mayor of Varnell, Georgia, and brings a distinguished background in education and public service to the role. He previously served as a teacher, principal and superintendent of Whitfield County Schools and was elected Representative of Georgia’s 6th House District. A dedicated Georgia United board member since 1997, Mr. Dickson continues his leadership as Board Chairman with an unwavering commitment to community advancement.
Edwin T. Bell will serve as Board Co-Vice Chair and Chair of the Audit Committee. Mr. Bell is the Chief Administrative Officer for the State and Magistrate Courts of DeKalb County and holds previous leadership roles with the Superior Court of DeKalb County and the National Center for State Courts. A board member since 2018, Mr. Bell also brings extensive operational experience, supported by an MBA from Clayton State University and a Criminal Justice degree from Georgia State University.
Reverend Mark Starr has been appointed Board Co-Vice Chair. Fr. Starr is the Pastor of Our Lady of LaSalette Catholic Church in Canton, Georgia, and is recognized for his engagement with Hispanic communities and multilingual leadership. With degrees in mechanical engineering, philosophy and divinity, Fr. Starr joined the Board in 2020 and previously served as Treasurer and member of the Audit Committee.
Frank Thach will serve as Treasurer. Mr. Thach has been a Board member since 2011, previously serving as Vice Chair. He is also a trustee for the Employees’ Retirement System of Georgia and holds degrees in Industrial Management from Georgia Tech and an MBA from Mercer University.
Sandy R. Burney has been elected Board Secretary. Ms. Burney is Managing Attorney at Burney Law, LLC, an Atlanta-based law firm serving individuals and businesses. She is an accomplished attorney with a Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University and a Policy Studies degree from Georgia State University. Ms. Burney joined the Board in 2023 and is an active member of several bar associations.
“We are grateful for the continued service and leadership of these remarkable individuals,” said Debbie Smith, CEO of Georgia United Credit Union. “Their diverse expertise and unwavering dedication will help us continue delivering meaningful value to our members and advancing our mission of making a positive difference in the communities we serve.”
Georgia United remains committed to the cooperative principles that define the credit union difference and is confident that this new slate of officers will uphold its values of service, integrity and innovation.