STAFF

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James Fritze | President and Chief Executive Officer

james@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 114

Board of Directors management
Leadership and planning
Major grants and gifts

James Fritze is an experienced financial and business leader who uses his creative flair to craft deals and solve problems that further NewTown’s mission of Investing time, resources, and money in local people and businesses to revitalize Downtown Macon.

James, a CPA with a B.B.A and M.B.A from the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia, has over 25 years of experience and has succeeded in various industries like healthcare, business services, and construction materials. In 2018, James joined the NewTown team as its Chief Financial Officer. As the result of James’ leadership, NewTown has doubled its size from $18m to $36m in assets, closed over 40 loans with local entrepreneurs and developers, sourced $30m in loan capital, and strengthened its overall financial structure so that NewTown is in a position to facilitate Macon revitalization for the next several decades.

Outside of NewTown, you can find James and his wife Denise, a fourth-generation Macon resident, exploring the outdoors, listening to live music, and supporting the Georgia Bulldogs with their two grown children, son-in-law, and grandson.

Erin Keller | Chief of Staff + Vice President for Development

erin@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 107

Donations and pledges to give
Grants
Fundraising
BID management

Erin calls LaPlace, Louisiana home and is a proud alumna of Mercer University, where she was a key player in the women’s basketball team. Following her graduation, Erin pursued a Master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership from Valdosta State University. She graduated from Leadership Macon in 2015, holds a "Certificate of Nonprofit Fundraising Essentials" from the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, actively contributes to the Workforce Development Board, and is a valued member of the Downtown Macon Rotary Club. In her downtime, Erin relishes moments with friends, stays active, dives into books, and fervently supports the Mercer Bears!

Her journey to NewTown began at her alma mater. For three years, she stood as an admissions counselor and later embraced the role of Coordinator of Alumni Programs.

Within NewTown, Erin fuels the engine of change. Her portfolio encompasses capital campaigns, annual fundraising, grant management, nurturing donor relationships, and guiding special programs.

Lauren Marshall | Vice President of Community Development

lauren@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 121

Leads NewTown Loans operations
Manages financing for small businesses and real estate
Trains local entrepreneurs and developers

Lauren leads NewTown Loans, LLC, a U.S. Treasury–certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). In this role, she oversees a $21 million loan fund, manages financial products for small businesses, residential investment, and commercial development, along with training and technical assistance that equip local entrepreneurs and developers with the tools and resources to succeed.

With more than a decade of experience in historic real estate development, Lauren has supported real estate development projects in Macon, including prior work with Historic Macon Foundation and the Beall’s Hill neighborhood revitalization initiative. A certified Historic Real Estate Finance Professional through Grow America, she brings deep expertise in leveraging federal and state historic tax credits, financing commercial projects, and rehabilitating historic properties.

Lauren earned her Master’s in Conservation Studies from the University of York in England and earned a BA in History and ABJ in Advertising from the University of Georgia. Committed to preserving Macon’s historic character while driving economic growth, she serves on the Macon-Bibb County Design Review Board and is a board member of Hay House. She and her husband live in a 110-year-old historic bungalow with their orange tabby cat, Cheddar.

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George Thomas, Jr. | Director of Leasing & Office

george@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 101

General inquiries
Loft and office leasing
Commercial real estate location services
Tenant inquires and payments

George is a Macon native and Westside High School graduate, where he was a football standout. He achieved his bachelor’s degree from Savannah State University and went on to receive his master’s from Valdosta State University. George is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and was awarded Superior Service Man of the year in 2013. Prior to NewTown, George worked with Mental Health at River Edge Behavioral Health, moving his way up through the ranks until becoming Housing Specialist, where he was responsible for coordinating the moves of over 250 tenants in the 200 plus properties owned or sub-leased by River Edge throughout the Middle Georgia area.

In his free time, George enjoys being active and exploring nature, traveling, relaxing with his family, watching sports, and rooting for his Carolina Panthers and South Carolina Gamecocks. He and his wife Martia are both from Macon and have three beautiful kids together.

At NewTown, George is responsible for leasing the lofts and coworking space, managing the office and commercial space, and general inquires.

George enjoys ordering the Juilette Burger from Ocmulgee Brewpub for lunch and trying cocktails and craft beer from downtown’s 54 bars and restaurants.

Mike Ford | Trails Director

mike@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 112

Project management for new and existing trail connections
Staff support for Ocmulgee Heritage Trail Committee

Mike Ford is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and is a CPA. For much of his early and mid-career, Mike held leadership roles in the medical industry.. From October 1993 to September 1994, he worked as Vice President of Marketing for Meditrust Corp. and later served as Vice President of Development of Columbia/HCA Healthcare Corporation from September 1994 to September 1997. Mike served as the Chairman of the Board of In-Home Health, Inc. from February 2000 to December 2000.

After being recruited by NewTown Macon founder, Juanita Jordan, to volunteer with the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail, Mike was hired as NewTown’s Chief Financial Officer and later served as NewTown’s President and CEO for 11 years. Mike has been President of the Ocmulgee Land Trust since July 2011.

In his spare time, Mike enjoys golfing, reading, and snow skiing.

Mike regularly dines at Oliver’s Corner Bistro with his wife, Nancy, and their friends and enjoys walking the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail for pleasure and for work.

Bryanna Hollis | Portfolio Manager

bryanna@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909 x 113

Monitoring loan portfolio

As Portfolio Manager on the NewTown Loans team, Bryanna Hollis plays a critical role in monitoring the health of the loan portfolio and supporting the organization’s goal of revitalizing Downtown Macon. With over ten years of experience in finance, property management, and operations, Bryanna brings a wealth of expertise in budgeting, financial reporting, and vendor management.

Before joining NewTown, Bryanna held key roles at New City Properties, Cushman & Wakefield, and CBRE, where she managed multimillion-dollar budgets, developed financial strategies, and handled contract negotiations.

A graduate of Georgia Southern University, Bryanna has worked in residential, multifamily, and commercial real estate, developing strong financial acumen and leadership skills along the way. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Bryanna enjoys fashion, pottery, and outdoor activities with her son and dog. She has also dedicated her time to community engagement, mentoring students and teaching swim lessons.

Bryanna’s diverse experience, financial expertise, and passion for community make her a valued asset to NewTown Macon’s mission.

Candler Bennett | Controller

candler@newtownmacon.com |478-722-9909 ext. 109

Manages Finances, Insurance and Risk Management
Human Resources

Candler brings over a decade of progressive experience in accounting and financial management to the NewTown Macon team. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with a strong foundation in both public and nonprofit finance. He began his undergraduate studies at Mercer University and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting from Valdosta State University. He also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration.

Throughout his career, Candler has held various roles within public, state government and large nonprofit organizations, bringing a well-rounded perspective to fiscal oversight and strategic financial planning. His expertise spans budget development, financial reporting, federal and state compliance, and internal controls.

Currently serving as Controller, Candler is committed to upholding financial integrity, transparency, and stewardship. He is known for his analytical insight, collaborative work style, and dedication to supporting NewTown Macon’s mission through sound financial practices.

Outside of work, Candler enjoys hiking, golfing, and spending quality time with his wife, Alecia, and their two boys.

Bill Fulger | Director of Construction

bill@newtownmacon.com|478-722-9909, x 115

Construction Administration
Tenant repairs and maintenance
Landscaping and public space

Bill Fulger boasts four decades of hands-on expertise in the construction industry, making him a seasoned and capable professional. His journey spans 40 years in various trades, each contributing to his rich knowledge base.

Bill's career path led him to the Polk County Florida school system, where he served as a maintenance mechanic for an impressive 24 years. In 2008, he embarked on a new chapter in Georgia, joining Bibb County Facilities Management. With the county's consolidation, Bill assumed the role of supervisor for the Parks and Beautification Department, focusing on downtown Macon and Amerson River Park. His presence became a fixture in downtown Macon, a testament to his dedication.

In 2018, Bill brought his wealth of experience to NewTown, enhancing the team with his unwavering commitment to customer service and loyalty. Known for his laid-back demeanor, Bill approaches every project with dedication and a steadfast attitude.

Isaac Campuzano | Business Development Officer

isaac@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 119

Serves as the primary contact for loan applicants.
Manages the small business loan pipeline.
Provides coaching to help local businesses scale.

A graduate of Mercer University with a BBA in Finance, Isaac brings a unique global perspective to the Macon community after studying international finance in South Korea. As a bilingual professional, he is dedicated to ensuring NewTown’s resources are accessible to Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs, fostering a more inclusive business environment in the urban core. Isaac is deeply committed to the physical and economic evolution of downtown, believing that vibrant cities thrive on verticality and accessible public infrastructure.

When he isn’t helping local businesses grow, Isaac fully immerses himself in the downtown lifestyle he works to build. A self-proclaimed coffee aficionado, he is a frequent face at local shops and a vocal supporter of the downtown restaurant scene. You’ll often find him enjoying a Fall Line beer, staying active at the gym, or keeping up with international music trends.

Annette Anderson | Finance Assistant

annette@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 112

Accounts Payable

Born and raised in the Washington DC area, but has lived in Macon for nearly 40 years. Since moving to Macon, Annette has been involved in her community with various organizations: Historic Macon, Junior League of Macon, Alex 2 PTA, The Hay House, Theatre Macon, and the Vineville Neighborhood Association, among others.

Annette holds a BS in Clothing & Textiles from VA Tech and a MA in German Literature from GA State University. Jobs in retail buying, visual merchandising, German language education, and theatre management ultimately led her to her present employment at NewTown Macon.

A strong supporter of downtown and historic preservation (3 historic residential and one historic office rehabilitations under her belt) and her work at NewTown Macon is the ideal combination of supporting the vision of the organization and her personal desire to live in a “city that is booming and real.”

When her two grown children, Maxine and Niko, come home to visit, Annette and her husband Lars, enjoy sharing the ever-growing and vibrant downtown scene in Macon with them and their spouses.

Haley Purvis | Digital Content Manager

haley@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 108

Website Management
Digital Communications & Management

Haley Purvis is a digital marketer with a passion for storytelling and bringing places to life through content. She earned her degree in Mass Communication from Georgia College and State University in 2020. She has told the story of Macon, Georgia for many years through roles at Sinclair Broadcast Group(WGXA) as a Digital Content Producer and at Visit Macon as the Digital Media Manager. She has created everything from engaging social media and email marketing campaigns to managing websites and digital ad campaigns through platforms such as Google, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube and Meta.

She also has worked with an advertising agency as an Email Marketing Specialist, where she created and managed email marketing campaigns for several clients in the Smoky Mountain region.

Haley is also a proud graduate of the 2024 Leadership Macon class and has obtained a Travel Marketing Professional Certificate from Southeast Tourism Society. She also serves on the Bragg Jam board.

As the Digital Content Manager at NewTown Macon, Haley manages NewTown’s robust digital marketing campaigns, such as social media, email marketing, website management, digital advertising, and more.

Outside of work, Haley is an avid music fan who loves concerts. She loves the outdoors and can be found playing disc golf at Lake Tobesofkee, floating down the Ocmulgee River with friends, and spending time with her three cats and husband.

Mark Thompson | Photographer + Special Events Assistant

mark@newtownmacon.com | 478-722-9909, x 112

Photography
Event assistance
Special projects

Mark is a Macon native who has lived in Macon but all but 8 years of his life. After attending Georgia Southern for two years, Mark completed his photography degree at North Georgia Technical and Vocational School in Clarkesville, Georgia. In his free time, Mark likes to travel, camp, kayak, go to antique stores, collect local art, and assist in local art projects. Mark helped create the first graffiti wall installed by the 567 Center for Renewal and supports the continuation of the program. Additionally, Mark has assisted with two street mural projects.

At NewTown, Mark is responsible for around town photography and assists with event setup and overall logistics.

Mark’s favorite beer, the Midnight Rider, can only be found at Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen, where you can find him with his friend, Newt. Mark enjoys kayaking at Amerson River Park.

In Memoriam: Josh Rogers, President & CEO from 2014 to 2024

NewTown Macon's Former President Josh Rodgers

Josh Rogers was a leader who built community by speaking plainly, taking responsibility, and acting with conviction. Rogers helped describe and illustrate the vision for Macon's future shared by optimistic citizens and worked to align resources and people to turn that vision into a reality we can enjoy now. His best skill was using market economics to meet philanthropic needs.

After working for the City of Macon, Rogers was named Executive Director of Historic Macon Foundation before turning 30. He ascended to his last role leading the nonprofit NewTown Macon in 2014, where he worked to revitalize downtown Macon and expand the river trail system. Rogers formed Central Georgia’s first and only Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), launched downtown’s first self-taxing district (BID), built the world’s largest pop-up bike lane network, founded the Magnolia Soap Box Derby, and initiated Macon’s Intercity Conference. During his tenure, he increased storefront occupancy from 56% to 82%, added 360 loft housing units, doubled property values, and drove over $350 million of public and private investment into downtown Macon while also increasing NewTown’s net assets by over 170%. Most importantly, no Maconites were left behind, as more women and people of color own and operate buildings and businesses in downtown Macon today than ten years ago.

Thanks to Josh's relentless efforts and vision of a Macon where everyone can prosper, downtown Macon’s success has been recognized by Frommer’s 2023 “Best Places to Visit” to the New York Times “52 Places to Go in 2023," culminating in NewTown winning the Great American Main Street Award in 2024. Josh shared his love of Macon with his wife Meaghan, and his kids Jack and Ellie, who know it as the best place to call home.

To support Josh's family, you can make a donation to the Jack and Ellie Educational Fund on our donation page.