Shelbia Jackson has been named Director of the DeKalb Entertainment Commission. The Commission is the primary driving force charged with attracting and expanding businesses supporting the film, television, music and digital entertainment industry in DeKalb County. She had previously been a Project Coordinator with the Decide DeKalb Development Authority, the county’s economic development department.

Jackson is responsible for the coordination of all television and film projects produced in unincorporated DeKalb County as well as the facilitation of film permits from its 13 cities and unique communities. She also oversees the development and sponsorship of programs, events and partnerships that support DeKalb’s creative community in the areas of film, television, music and digital entertainment.

She served more than ten years as a public servant with DDDA and was the leader in establishing the DeKalb Entertainment Commission. She manages the Commission’s $305,000 budget.

Jackson has served on several Transportation Infrastructure, Tourism and Culture, and Community Enhancements Task Forces for DeKalb Economic Strategic Plan Implementation. She was recently named to Leadership DeKalb’s Class of 2019.

DeKalb Entertainment By the Numbers

• DeKalb is the third largest county in Georgia; with more than 730,000 residents, 13 incorporated cities, and encompassing 268 square miles.

• The county recently released research on the economic impact of the entertainment industry in the county. The numbers show a positive impact of $1.98 billion in 2016 and a 12 percent growth in industry jobs from 2011 – 16.

• The DEC estimates that every job created locally in the entertainment industry generates 1.45 additional jobs in other areas.

Jackson received a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University. She lives in the Stockbridge area of metro Atlanta.