Integral Community Member Bids Farewell to Lilburn Business Association

Andrew Bell may live in Sugar Hill, but for a number of years he also called Lilburn home.

As the manager of the Lilburn BB&T, he jumped right in to the community, including being the president of the Lilburn Business Association.

However, a recent promotion forced him to step down from his position with the Lilburn Business Association. Officially, he finishes his term this month.

He has already started his new job, and is managing 11 BB&T branches in Forsyth and (north) Fulton counties.

Before a new board takes over, we asked Bell a few questions about his time in Lilburn.

Patch: You were keenly involved in Lilburn and the LBA when you worked here. Was it hard stepping down from your position? 

Bell: It was a bittersweet decision to step down as LBA president. I believe for the organization to remain dynamic, the leadership should continue to evolve and the LBA encourage new faces and perspectives to lead.  

Patch: Is there anything you didn't get to do, that you wish you had? 

Bell: Not really. As a board two years ago we set a goal to have 100 paid members. We have hovered just short of that goal for the past year or so. 

Patch: What are you hoping the new board -- and especially the new president -- is able to capitalize on from your term? 

Bell: I hope that the new board and new president will continue to support the positive changes in the Lilburn community and will continue to play a role in that. The LBA represents the business community of our city and that is a large group of influential people which can offer alot to our community. 

Patch: Any advice you leave for businesses or business owners in the city?

Bell: Through my work with BB&T and my time with the LBA, I know that it is a constant fight for business owners in today's world.  I encourage the business owners of Lilburn and the Greater Gwinnett community to keep fighting, stay positive, and make the most of our time.  We should continue to celebrate the victories, learn from the tough times, and surround ourselves with positive people who share our outlooks on life - both personally and professionally. 

Patch: What did you enjoy most from your time here? 

Bell: I look back at the person I was almost five years ago and barely recognize him. I've gained so much experience, knowledge, and so many wonderful people as friends in my life during my time in Lilburn.  Those people have helped shape my heart and my life into what it is today and I'm grateful for them all.

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Want to get involved? Check the Liburn Business Association's website and Facebook page. 

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