State Transportation Board members Ann R. Purcell of Rincon (First Congressional District) and Sam Wellborn of Columbus (Third Congressional District) were unanimously re-elected to full five-year board terms by a caucus of state representatives and senators from their respective congressional districts. The new terms begin April 16, 2017.
“The Georgia Department of Transportation and the people of Georgia are fortunate to have dedicated individuals of this caliber representing them on the transportation board,” Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry, P.E. said. “Board members perform a vital function in advancing transportation across all of Georgia.”

Board Secretary Ann R. Purcell, representing Congressional District 1 in southeast Georgia, was first elected to the board in 2013. In addition to her role as secretary, she serves on the Administrative, Intermodal and Legislative committees.

“I appreciate the faith legislators have shown by re-electing me to continue serving on the State Transportation Board,” Purcell said. “My region’s transportation infrastructure, which includes the ports of Savannah and Brunswick, is critical for the entire state. It is rewarding to represent not only my district, but to play a role in advancing transportation throughout Georgia.”

Purcell, a community and civic leader, previously served 18 years in the Georgia House of Representatives, where she chaired the Public Safety and Homeland Security Committee, and served on numerous other committees. She is a tireless advocate for her district, and her efforts have been recognized both locally and statewide. Purcell is a graduate of Georgia Southern College.

Sam Wellborn has represented west central Georgia’s Congressional District 3 on the board for 25 years and is its longest serving member. He chairs the Gateways Committee, which recently upgraded the state’s welcome centers without using taxpayer dollars. He also serves on other committees including Equal Access, Finance, Program Delivery/Consultant Services/Contractors and Property Utilization. He has previously served as board chairman.

“Representing my constituents on the State Transportation Board has been an honor and a joy,” Wellborn said. “I am grateful to legislators for re-electing me and proud to continue my service. There are exciting things happening in Georgia transportation and I am delighted to have the opportunity to continue making a difference for the people of this great state.”

Wellborn is a civic and community leader who has received numerous honors. Prior to serving on the State Transportation Board, he was president and CEO of Columbus Bank and Trust Company. He is a graduate the University of Georgia.