Milton, Georgia, has witnessed one of its own rise through the ranks as Anita Jupin becomes the town’s new Economic Development Manager after earning a Georgia Certified Economic Developer (GCED) certification. Jupin's journey in Milton's municipal workforce began in 2019 when she took on the role of Special Events Coordinator, showcasing her prowess in community organization and event management. Since December 2021, she has been making waves as the Economic Engagement Manager, a position through which she has significantly bolstered local businesses and reshaped the suburban city's commercial landscape.
During her tenure, Jupin has not only coordinated countless ribbon-cuttings, but she has also been the go-to person for local business inquiries and requests, illustrating her dedication and service to the Milton community. On the strategic front, she played a pivotal role in the branding and placemaking efforts and the development of a master plan for the critical Windward Parkway/Highway 9 corridor, as reported by the City of Milton. These initiatives, especially the latter, which involves collaboration with the City of Alpharetta and True North 400, are set to redefine the area’s economic footprint.
Her hands also graced the hugely popular Crabapple Fest, an annual occasion that draws over 30,000 visitors, fostering Milton's small-town charm while boosting its commercial viability. Additionally, Jupin deepened her understanding of Milton's agrarian heritage by completing the University of Georgia's Journeyman Farmer Certificate program. This move pays homage to the essence of community and the ancestral bonds of soil and sustenance. These efforts, among others, were recognized by Bob Buscemi, Milton's Community Development Director, who acknowledged her 'above and beyond' work ethic. Buscemi stated, "Her new title, focused on Economic Development, is more expansive and indicative of how she’ll serve Milton going forward," according to Milton's official announcement.
The GCED certification, a result of numerous hours of coursework and a capstone project at the Carl Vinson Institute of the University of Georgia—Jupin's own alma mater—reflects her commitment to professional growth and economic excellence. This certification is more than a mere testament to her academic dedication; it is a cornerstone that lays the foundation for her expanded role within the city's governance. Anita's comprehensive knowledge of local affairs and her engagement with the business and non-profit sectors are likely to usher in a period of economic revitalization and development under her newly minted leadership as Milton’s Economic Development Manager.
