We Are Clayton

09/16/2026

08/31/2026

Clayton County is open for business—and local leaders say collaboration will be the key to moving the county forward.

The Development Authority of Clayton County brought developers, investors, brokers, business owners, property owners and government leaders together for the Clayton County Real Estate Investment & Development Forum at the Arena at Southlake.

The discussion focused on attracting quality investment, creating jobs, expanding the county’s tax base, preparing residents for new workforce opportunities and bringing more mixed-use development, housing, restaurants and retail to Clayton County.

“We’re taking our narrative back,” said Development Authority Chairman Dr. C.H. Braddy. “We’re taking our story, and we’re writing our story. We are truly Clayton.”

Read the full story to learn how Invest Clayton and its community partners are working to build a greater Clayton County: https://weareclayton.com/invest-clayton-makes-the-case-for-a-greater-clayton/

Invest Clayton brought developers and county leaders together to discuss real estate, jobs, mixed-use projects and Clayton County’s economic future.

08/29/2026

He also addressed concerns about cooperation on the Board of Commissioners, promising to work with every member willing to help move the county forward.

Read the full story and answer: What should Commissioner-elect Collins prioritize when he takes office?

Commissioner-elect Demeitrius Collins and his wife discuss their District 1 campaign, economic development, workforce training and board cooperation.

08/29/2026

“I’m here for the children.”
Clayton County Board of Education District 8 representative Joy Tellis spoke candidly with *We Are Clayton Magazine* about leadership, accountability, the district’s $1.38 billion budget and the responsibility entrusted to every school board member.
Tellis also made her position on the district’s superintendent vacancy clear:
“Yes, I support Dr. Hendrix being appointed to that position.”
She pointed to Interim Superintendent Dr. Douglas Hendrix’s 30-, 60- and 90-day plan—and the documentation he provided showing what his administration accomplished—as evidence of his preparation and follow-through.
But the most powerful moment came when Tellis was asked to name the best part of serving on the board. Her voice broke as she described watching students walk across the graduation stage.
“You actually see it in real time,” she said.
Tellis also addressed employee compensation, difficult budget decisions, the limits of a board member’s authority, leadership rotation and the need for parents, businesses and residents to remain actively involved in public education.
Read the complete interview: �https://weareclayton.com/joy-tellis/
Do you believe the Board of Education should appoint Dr. Douglas Hendrix permanently, or should the district conduct a broader superintendent search? Share your thoughts respectfully below.

08/29/2026

“I’m here for the children.”

Clayton County Board of Education District 8 representative Joy Tellis spoke candidly with *We Are Clayton Magazine* about leadership, accountability, the district’s $1.38 billion budget and the responsibility entrusted to every school board member.

Tellis also made her position on the district’s superintendent vacancy clear:

“Yes, I support Dr. Hendrix being appointed to that position.”

She pointed to Interim Superintendent Dr. Douglas Hendrix’s 30-, 60- and 90-day plan—and the documentation he provided showing what his administration accomplished—as evidence of his preparation and follow-through.

But the most powerful moment came when Tellis was asked to name the best part of serving on the board. Her voice broke as she described watching students walk across the graduation stage.

“You actually see it in real time,” she said.

Tellis also addressed employee compensation, difficult budget decisions, the limits of a board member’s authority, leadership rotation and the need for parents, businesses and residents to remain actively involved in public education.

Read the complete interview: �https://weareclayton.com/joy-tellis/

Do you believe the Board of Education should appoint Dr. Douglas Hendrix permanently, or should the district conduct a broader superintendent search? Share your thoughts respectfully below.

Clayton County Board of Education member Joy Tellis discusses accountability, the district’s $1.38 billion budget and why she supports appointing Interim Superintendent Dr. Douglas Hendrix to the permanent position.

08/20/2026

The Clayton County Chamber of Commerce’s Business Luncheon was a tremendous success, with Interim Clayton County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Douglas Hendrix serving as the guest speaker.

Dr. Hendrix addressed a room filled with business owners, elected officials and community leaders while discussing education, partnership and Clayton County’s future.

Although “interim” remains in his official title, the reception he received seemed to communicate something more: the business community appeared to embrace Dr. Hendrix as the Superintendent of Clayton County Public Schools.

That was not necessarily a formal endorsement—but the applause, enthusiasm and confidence expressed in the room were difficult to overlook.

Read the full We Are Clayton Magazine recap and tell us: What message do you believe the business community sent?

https://weareclayton.com/clayton-countys-business-community-welcomes-dr-douglas-hendrix-at-chamber-luncheon/

Dr. Douglas Hendrix received an enthusiastic welcome from Clayton County business leaders during the Chamber of Commerce Business Luncheon.

08/17/2026

Thank you!

08/17/2026

Thank You!

08/16/2026

A Very Merry Unbirthday!

Last night was truly amazing as Arts Clayton welcomed guests to its 18th annual Arte’ Gras Benefit Gala. Inspired by Alice in Wonderland, this year’s “Arts in Wonderland” celebration invited everyone to enjoy a very merry unbirthday filled with creativity, community and unforgettable fun.

August 15, 2026