Ellington

Debi Green's job is to bring businesses together to improve the economy and quality of life for the greater Jackson area. Green began working with the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership in 1985 and is now the executive director of membership, sales and retention for the partnership.

"I am essentially the voice of the business community (in Jackson)," Green says. "I go out and visit with new businesses that have located in the greater Jackson area and talk with them about available opportunities. I help them take opportunities to grow their business, have greater visibility in the community and make good investments."

In addition to encouraging membership in the organization, Green recently developed a new professional women's group called WIN--Women's Information Network. WIN kicked off in August 2011 and has since grown tremendously.

The group allows women to come together to network with one another and grow personally and professionally. WIN holds luncheon meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month for women to hear educational speakers and discuss issues of interest to women professionals, such as health, fitness, career opportunities, home and more.

Green is also heavily involved with Pinelake Baptist Church, where she works as a decision counselor by counseling people on spiritual matters and welcoming new members. Green said she loves making a difference in people's lives and strengthening the community, whether it is through her church, WIN or the Chamber Partnership.

"I believe in who we are, in our purpose and in what we are doing," Green says. "(The chamber partnership) encompasses all aspects of what a business needs, whether it is a big business or a small mom-and-pop store. I consider this my ministry. I have a chance to make a difference in somebody's world as it relates to their business."

Originally from Vicksburg, Green moved to Hattiesburg in her freshman year of high school, where she attended Hattiesburg High School. She went to the University of Southern Mississippi from 1973 to 1975 and was focusing on nursing before she paused her education for marriage. Green moved to Jackson in 1980 with her former husband. Green has two daughters and three grandchildren. Her daughters are Dacia Green, a registered dietician at UMMC, and Brittany Green Christian, who is completing an education degree to teach middle school and eventually college.

If you would like to participate in WIN, to be a guest speaker for one of the luncheons or to get more information, email [e-mail missing] or call 601-948-7575.