HATTIESBURG, MISS. (March 26, 2025) — The Downtown Hattiesburg Association (DHA) hosted its 2025 Annual Meeting and Awards Luncheon today at the Historic Hattiesburg Train Depot, celebrating a banner year for downtown revitalization, recognizing key contributors, and unveiling exciting plans for the future.
Keynote speaker Randy Wilson, founder and president of Community Design Solutions, inspired attendees with his address, “The Power of Remembrance and Pursuit of Excellence.” A nationally respected Main Street architect, Wilson shared practical strategies for placemaking, storytelling, and business retention, as outlined in the Downtown Hattiesburg Roadmap, a strategic plan co-developed in 2024.
The event also marked a leadership transition, with Emily Gallaspy officially introduced as DHA’s new Executive Director, succeeding longtime director Andrea Saffle, who was honored with the 2024 Main Street Hero Award for her decade of dedicated service.
“I’m honored to step into this role and serve my community in a meaningful way. There are countless individuals to thank who helped make last year successful for downtown,” said Gallaspy. “I’m excited to continue that momentum to make 2025 even more impactful for downtown’s residents, visitors, and business owners.”
DHA shared impressive 2024 economic impact numbers, including the creation of 21 new jobs, 10 new businesses, and more than $30M contributed in public and private investment.
The annual Downtown Awards celebrated outstanding partners and projects:
- Promotion of the Arts Award: Nuestro Arte
- Main Street Trailblazer Award: William Carey University
- Outstanding Up and Comer: Rebekah Castilaw, Sincerely Grocery
- Outstanding Historic Rehabilitation Project: Prospect on Main, David Shemper
- Philanthropy Award: Miles Family Trust
- Leadership Awards: Councilwoman Deborah Delgado and Councilman Carter Carroll
- City Spirit Award: Charles Jerome Brown
DHA Board President Chelsey Everett concluded the program with optimism for the year ahead, noting the continued momentum and community engagement driving downtown forward.
“Downtown Hattiesburg’s progress is a direct reflection of people’s passion and commitment to this community,” said Everett. “As we look ahead, I’m excited to build on this strong foundation and collaborate on new opportunities that will continue to shape a vibrant, welcoming, and thriving downtown.”
DHA extends its appreciation to the sponsors that make this event possible, including Prospect on Main, City of Hattiesburg, Forrest County Board of Supervisors, Mississippi Power, VisitHATTIESBURG, Area Development Partnership, and William Carey University.
For more information, visit downtownhattiesburg.com or follow @downtownhattiesburg on social media.
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About Downtown Hattiesburg Association: The Downtown Hattiesburg Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization, promotion, and economic development of Hattiesburg’s historic downtown district. Through community collaboration and innovative initiatives, the organization works to enhance the quality of life for residents and create a vibrant environment for businesses, arts, and culture.
