The Rotary Club of Gainesville named its Man and Woman of the Year at its annual banquet Monday evening.
The club said Jack Bailey, owner and architect of Bailey Associates, was named Man of the Year, while Phillippa Lewis Moss, community service center director with the City of Gainesville, was named Woman of the Year.
Club President Ron Quinn and President-Elect Christina Jones hosted the event at Lanier Technical College's Ramsey Conference Center. The club has recognized a Man of the Year since 1939 and a Woman of the Year since 1944.
"Both awards are conferred for achievements, leadership, and service to the Gainesville and Hall County community during the past year as well as over the course of the individual’s lifetime," a release from the club said.
The theme of the 2024 event was "A New Century of Service."
Bailey was recognized for his work across a variety of area non-profits, including Gateway House, First Presbyterian Church, Georgia Mountain Food Bank, Junior League, Greater Hall County Chamber of Commerce, Quinlan Art Center, Brenau University and Saint Michaels Catholic Church.
“He has quietly had a tremendous impact on the work of Good News Clinics and other non-profits in Hall County by his creation of buildings where agencies can assist those in need in our community," Cheryl Christian wrote in a letter of nomination for Bailey. "To truly assess his impact on our community, one must look to the thousands of individuals who have received safe shelter, healthcare services, and other services addressing their basic needs.”
Bailey's accomplishments include the renovation of the Gainesville Civic Center, Hunt Tower, Quinlan Visual Art Center, and Norton's Corporate office. Additional facilities include Medical Arts’ 715 building, two Marta Stations in Atlanta, Georgia Mountain Food Bank, Chattahoochee Country Club, 30 or more medical facilities, 100 or more homes, Chestatee Regional Library and many more.
Moss was recognized for her dedication to helping those in need. She has worked with the Gainesville-Hall County Community Service Center for more than two decades as the Center's director.
"She is passionate about finding ways for people to have brighter futures and ensures everyone who qualifies has access to public transportation, financial assistance and education, Meals on Wheels, prescription medication assistance and many other support services," the press release said.
Moss has served as a member and leader of a number of boards and committees over the past 14 years at Northeast Georgia Health System. She currently serves as the chair of the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Board and Executive Committee.
“If you’ve worked with her in any capacity, you know how passionately she will encourage collaboration to help those in need," NGHS President and CEO Carol Burrell said at Monday's banquet. "Not only is she a leader in her workplace, she’s also a dedicated volunteer in the community. She truly embodies the Rotary motto of service above self.”
Additionally, Joey Tripp was named the Rotarian of the Year, which recognizes a club member for their service and commitment to the club.
Rick Boyd was awarded the Sidney O. Smith Fellowship Award, which recognizes a Rotarian's goodwill, friendliness and understanding. The award is given in memory of the late Sidney O. Smith, who was a charter club member.
John Breakfield was awarded the Guardian of Ethics Award, which recognizes a Rotarian who exemplifies a passion for ethics in their vocation, business and personal life.
Finally, Mike Giles was awarded the W. Lee Arrendale Vocational Excellence Award, which recognizes a Rotarian's excellence in his or her vocation.
