The Economic Development Director of College Park Barbra Coffee has earned a new distinction — appointment to the International Council of Shopping Centers as the Georgia Alliance Public Sector Co-Chair.

Coffee’s term as co-chair will last one year.

In that role, Coffee will act as a representative of retail specialists in the state.

Although Coffee’s participation in the organization in Georgia is new, Coffee has been active with the International Council of Shopping Centers for the past 10 years.

“Prior to coming to Georgia, I was involved with the chapter in Arizona,” she said. “I’ve been in this role before and it certainly is important in the career path of economic development.”

Coffee said her involvement will prove to be especially helpful in her position with College Park, as she works to get the city and South Fulton as a whole more exposure.

Additionally, Coffee will work on programming for the organization throughout the state.

“I [want to] bring a little more attention to this area and city,” she said. “It’s important to engage with the commercial development community so you can recruit business into your community. Getting involved helps build relationships to that end.”

Coffee, along with her co-chair, John Wilde, will be instrumental in planning events and programming to bridge the gap between the private and public sector, to create a harmonious networking environment between the two.

“I feel so honored that I’ve been asked,” said Coffee. “I’m am very proud to have been invited in the short time I’ve been [working in College Park].”