AARP Georgia Welcomes Vanessa J. Payne as New State Director

ATLANTA (August 1, 2024) – AARP Georgia is pleased to announce Vanessa J. Payne as the new AARP Georgia State Director. Vanessa joins AARP with over 25 years of diverse experience across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Her impressive background and unwavering commitment to civic and community service make her an exceptional leader for AARP Georgia.

Most recently, Payne served as the Chief Executive Officer of Atlanta CASA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advocating for children involved in the foster care system in Fulton County. Vanessa led staff and volunteers to amplify the voices of the children they served and ensured their best interests were represented in court.

Prior to Atlanta CASA, Vanessa held various leadership positions at the Georgia Institute of Technology, the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS), and The Coca-Cola Company. In these roles, she excelled in guiding strategic business plans, managing resources and organizational projects, ensuring regulatory compliance, and serving as a liaison to the Governor’s Office and State Legislature.

“Each year, the AARP Georgia team impacts the lives of thousands of older adults through their advocacy efforts and fun, educational events and offerings,” said Vanessa. “I’m excited to lead a talented and passionate team and look forward to continuing AARP Georgia’s mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age.”

Vanessa is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a certificate in program management. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and her Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Louisiana State University.