City of Madison Planning and Development Director Monica Callahan was recently recognized statewide at the Georgia Municipal Association’s annual convention in Savannah.
Callahan, who has worked for the City of Madison for nearly 30 years, received the 2026 Starr Award from the Georgia Cities Foundation (GCF).
According to a GCF press release, Callahan’s three decades of service have “helped shape Madison into a premier downtown destination while championing preservation, economic development and housing opportunities.”
GCF President Pam Sessions said Callahan exemplifies the values the award represents.
“Monica Callahan exemplifies the spirit of the Starr Award through her unwavering commitment to community, thoughtful leadership, and transformative vision,” Sessions said. “Her work in Madison has become a model for communities throughout Georgia, demonstrating how preservation, housing, and economic development can work together to create thriving downtowns.”
According to the foundation’s website, the Starr Award is its “highest recognition for exceptional leadership and innovative urban development.” The honor is named for Mike Starr, the GCF’s first president.
Callahan called the recognition a “true honor” and said she first became acquainted with the Starr family’s commitment to Georgia’s downtowns while serving as president of the Georgia Downtown Association.
“Mike’s leadership was unflagging and inspiring. [His wife] Susan and I have also served together on the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation awards committee for many years,” Callahan said. “For me, she is a true preservation advocate, bar none, and a flat-out joy to be around. So, to receive any recognition reflecting the Starr legacy to historic downtowns is beyond an award; it’s a true honor.”
Callahan previously received the Georgia State Historic Preservation Office Achievement Award in 2004 and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior’s Historic Preservation Award in 2024.
The release also noted Callahan played a key role in developing Madison’s Downtown Park, which opened in 2009. She has also contributed to several projects, including Jefferson Square Parkside, Walker Rose Lane, and Silver Lakes Court.
Sessions said Callahan’s impact extends beyond Madison.
“She has shared her knowledge and passion with communities throughout Georgia, mentoring downtown leaders and helping shape the next generation of community development professionals,” Sessions said. “Her legacy can be seen not only in the projects she has completed, but in the people and communities she has inspired.”