History of Civic Center

In 1993, the Oconee County Civic Center in Watkinsville, Georgia, was founded as a testament to the community's commitment to providing a versatile and vital space for gatherings, meetings, and performances. Spearheaded by the Oconee County Board of Commissioners, with Wendell T. Dawson serving as Chairman, and dedicated board members including Albert Hale, Jay Campbell, Donald H. Norris, and William E. Wilkes, the Civic Center project became a reality.

The administrative team, led by Peter Mallory as Administrative Assistant and Gina M. Lindsey as County Clerk, worked tirelessly to ensure the center's success. Shawn T. Wheeler assumed the role of Civic Center Manager, overseeing the day-to-day operations and event management.

Collaborating closely with the Oconee County Board of Education, under the leadership of Superintendent Debra Harden and Chairman Kenneth Bridges, the Civic Center cemented its place as a hub for both education-related and community events. Notable board members, such as Chuck Horton, Jerry Studdard, Ben McLeroy, James Hunter, J. C. Childers, Kay Shepard, Brenda Barrett, Harry Thomas, and S. H. Sanders, played a pivotal role in shaping the center's mission.

The Civic Center also benefited from the guidance of the Civic Center Citizens Advisory Committee, with Pattie W. Ivy serving as Chairperson. Comprising dedicated community members, including R. Jasper Argo, Wilma H. Biggers, Mary Lillie Chamberlin, Frank J. Christa, Gayle Christopher, Jim Williams, John R. Duffett, Lee Hamlett, McArlen Kilpatrick, Joseph L. Nunnally, Paula A. Thomas, and Joan N. Whitehead, this committee provided valuable insights into the center's development.

With the collaborative efforts of these dedicated individuals and organizations, the Oconee County Civic Center was founded in 1993, serving as a cornerstone of the community's cultural and civic life for years to come.