THOMASVILLE- First Commerce Credit Union Residential Real Estate Sales Manager Barbara Williams-Anderson was recently honored with one of the highest local awards possible, as the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce named her Woman of the Year. The award recognizes individuals who have shown exemplary dedication to community service, innovation and leadership.

“I am truly humbled and honored to have received this award. I am blessed to work alongside others who give their time and energy for this wonderful community we get to call home,” said Williams-Anderson. “I am very grateful to my family, friends, work family and fellow volunteers who make this work possible.”

Williams-Anderson’s successful career, service to her community and outgoing personality were highlighted during the Chamber’s Community Impact Awards on Feb. 20.

Raised in Thomasville, Williams-Anderson has 35 years of experience in the real estate industry and 22 years of experience as a mortgage loan originator. After moving to Tallahassee to attend Florida State University, Williams-Anderson moved back to Thomasville when she married her husband Robbie Anderson, who is also from Thomasville, and they raised their two children, Jack Reed Anderson and Cole Anderson, in the Rose City.

In the first seven years of her career, Williams-Anderson started her own title insurance company before shifting to the mortgage side of real estate in 2001. Her professional path allowed her to help thousands of people realize their dream of homeownership.

“We are incredibly proud to have Barbara on the First Commerce team and thrilled to celebrate this tremendous honor with her,” said First Commerce Chief Lending and Information Officer Justin Hof. “Barbara’s dedication and service to our members and to her community exemplify the credit union philosophy of people helping people.”

Beyond her professional experience, Williams-Anderson’s involvement in the Thomasville community was also recognized during the ceremony. She serves on the board of directors for the Thomasville Rotary Club helping with initiatives such as delivering fresh produce each month to first responders. She also serves on the Southern Regional Technical College Board of Trustees where she helps guide program direction, as well as college goals and objectives. Additionally, she is active in her church and helps organizations such as the Salvation Army and Hands On Thomas County.

Shelley Zorn, director of the chamber’s Payroll Development Authority, said Williams-Anderson “is known as a servant leader in our community, and although she has a very warm and very outgoing personality, she prefers to serve behind the scenes.”

In addition to recognizing Williams-Anderson’s contributions to the Thomasville community, the Community Impact Awards recognize member businesses and other individuals who have made a significant impact in the community over the past year. First Commerce is a proud sponsor of Chamber Connects, a quarterly lunch program organized by the chamber to give local businesses an opportunity to network and learn from industry leaders throughout the region.