The James H. Drew Fairman of the Year Award is one of the Georgia Association of Agricultural Fairs' highest honors, recognizing individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the fair industry throughout Georgia. Named in honor of James H. Drew, a respected leader in the carnival business whose philosophy was that "the carnival business is a noble business, bringing joy and happiness into the lives of many," the award celebrates those whose dedication, leadership, and years of service have strengthened agricultural fairs across the state. Recipients exemplify professionalism, commitment, and a lasting impact on Georgia's fair tradition.

James H. Drew Fairman of the Year Award

2026 James H. Drew Fairman of the Year

Grady Rahn

Effingham Fair

Previous Recipients:

1990 — Arthur Springer
1991 — Marvin Lorig
1992 — James Vining
1993 — Charles Inman
1994 — Dale Thurman
1995 — Dot Bailey
1996 — Ted Pulsifer
1997 — Hugh Snell
1998 — J.R. "Jet" Russell
1999 — Billy Becton
2000 — Larry Thomas
2001 — Dominic Vivona
2002 — Hilda Thomason
2003 — Wendell Griffin
2004 — Bill Wages
2005 — Tommie Tyler
2006 — John P. Webb, Jr.
2007 — Ken Preston

2008 — Darrell Colson
2009 — Larry Griffin
2010 — Joe Taylor
2011 — Mike Zapata
2012 — Skip Nichols
2013 — Tod Miller
2014 — Chris Hafer
2015 — Ted Lane
2016 — Bud Owens
2017 — Gerald Andrews
2018 — Paul Smith
2019 — Jimmy Drew
2020 — Bill Jones
2022 — Don Allen Garrett
2023 — Mike Zapata
2024 — Michael Lariscy
2025 — Stephen Shimp
2026 — Grady Rahn