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Tom Gehl
Director, Governmental Relations at Georgia Municipal Association
Professional Background
Tom Q. Gehl is a distinguished figure in Georgia's governmental landscape, currently serving as the Director of Governmental Affairs for the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). In this visionary role, Tom effectively represents the interests of city governments across the state at the Georgia State Capitol. His leadership on the management team at GMA underscores his commitment to enhancing local government operations and policymaking.
In his capacity as Director of Governmental Affairs, Tom is responsible for overseeing GMA's comprehensive legislative strategy. His extensive expertise encompasses a wide range of pivotal areas including local government issues, environmental policies, taxation, and transportation. His ability to navigate complex legislative contexts makes him an invaluable advocate for Georgia's municipalities.
Before his impactful tenure at GMA, Tom built a solid foundation of experience as a Senior Policy Analyst for the Georgia Senate Research Office. Here, he was instrumental in shaping policy as the lead staff member for key Senate committees such as Natural Resources and Environment, Transportation, and State and Local Governmental Operations. His work in this role earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and stakeholders alike and positioned him as a significant influencer in Georgia's legislative processes.
Tom's career in governmental affairs began with his role as a legislative aide in Ford Motor Company's Southeastern Governmental and Public Affairs Office. This opportunity allowed him to hone his skills and develop a breadth of knowledge which has proven beneficial throughout his career in public service. Since the convening of the 1990 General Assembly, Tom has been an active participant in every legislative session at the Gold Dome, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to the governance of Georgia.
Education and Achievements
Tom’s educational background perfectly complements his professional journey. He holds a Master of Arts in Political Science from Georgia State University, a credential that reflects his deep understanding of political systems and public policy. Additionally, Tom earned his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the acclaimed Henry W. Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia. This dual foundation in journalism and political science equips Tom with unique perspectives that enhance his roles in advocacy and governmental affairs.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Tom is actively involved in shaping the future of educational institutions. He serves on the Board of Visitors for the College of Arts & Sciences at Georgia State University, where his insights contribute to the strategic direction of the college. His previous experience on the GSU Political Science Department Advisory Board showcases his dedication to nurturing future leaders in political thought and governance.
Tom's contributions to Georgia's political landscape have not gone unnoticed. Georgia Trend magazine honored him as one of the "Notable Georgians Making an Impact in the State" in both 2017 and 2018, a testament to his significant influence and dedication to his work. Additionally, during his leadership, the GMA earned prestigious rankings for its advocacy efforts, including #2 in the "Top Business and Trade Associations" in Georgia, as featured in the September/October 2019 issue of JAMES Magazine, and #3 in the 2020 edition.
Furthermore, in the January 2016 edition of Capitol Faces magazine, Tom was recognized as one of the "60 Powerful Leaders Who Rule the Capitol," a compilation of trendsetters, rainmakers, and policy experts who have made a profound impact on Georgia's political arena. These accolades not only highlight Tom’s exceptional career but also affirm his position as a key player in state-level governance and advocacy.
Conclusion
As an Atlanta native, Tom Q. Gehl's passion for public service is evident throughout his career, driving him to elevate the interests of Georgia's municipalities. His educational achievements, combined with extensive experience in legislative affairs, position him as a leading authority in the field of governmental relations. Tom continues to work diligently at the Georgia Municipal Association, championing policies that benefit local governments and the citizens they serve, ensuring that Georgia’s future remains bright under informed leadership and robust advocacy.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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