Yanous Barner Appointed Executive Director of Gateway Campus

College Park, Georgia Sep 25, 2025  – The City of College Park is pleased to announce the official appointment of Yanous Barner as the Executive Director overseeing the Gateway Center Arena, Georgia International Convention Center (GICC), and the Historic College Park Golf Course. Barner assumes this position following a productive tenure as Interim Executive Director, during which he guided the Gateway Center Campus through substantial expansion and adjustments. With multiple years in leadership capacities within the Gateway Campus, Barner brings a demonstrated track record of operational excellence, inventive strategies, and effective relationship management.

Having accumulated over 30 years of expertise in the hospitality, tourism, and event management sectors, Barner has been instrumental in developing the Gateway Campus into one of the Southeast’s most dynamic destinations for gatherings, conventions, entertainment, and sports. His forward-thinking vision and unwavering commitment have garnered him respect both regionally and nationally.

“Yanous Barner possesses a wealth of experience and a profound understanding of our industry, which will continue to elevate the GICC, Gateway Center Arena, and College Park Golf Course as premier venues for meetings, conventions, and events,” stated Mercedes Miller, President of the ATL Airport District Convention & Visitors Bureau. “I am confident that under Yanous’ leadership, the Gateway Campus will continue to expand, innovate, and deliver exceptional experiences for our clients, partners, and the community.”

Barner’s leadership has been crucial in both hosting major conventions and securing key sports partnerships, most notably establishing the Gateway Center Arena as the official home of the College Park Skyhawks, the NBA G League affiliate of the Atlanta Hawks.

“Yanous has been a constant presence since the College Park Skyhawks first arrived at Gateway Center Arena in 2019,” commented Janice Koon, Atlanta Hawks Senior Vice President of NBA G League and 2K League Operations. “He possesses a unique ability to forge genuine relationships and has been a trusted partner and friend to our franchise. We are absolutely thrilled for him on this truly deserved recognition.”

In his role as Executive Director, Barner will be responsible for operations, strategic planning, and business development across the entire Gateway Campus. His priorities will include broadening the facilities’ global reach, enhancing guest experiences, and strengthening community impact through innovative collaborations and programming.

“It is a distinct honor to step into this role and continue building upon the robust foundation of the Gateway Campus,” said Yanous Barner. “I am deeply committed to upholding the Gateway by advancing our mission of excellence, creating memorable experiences for our guests, and ensuring that College Park remains a top-tier destination for business, entertainment, and recreation.”

Barner’s appointment underscores the City of College Park’s ongoing dedication to growth, innovation, and excellence across its hospitality, tourism, and entertainment industries.

About the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC)
The GICC features the largest ballroom in Metro Atlanta and serves as a premier destination for meetings, conventions, and various events. Together with the Gateway Center Arena and the Historic College Park Golf Course, it forms the anchor of the Gateway Campus, a dynamic hub for business, entertainment, and recreation within the ATL Airport District.

The Gateway Campus is where you M.E.E.T: Meet. Entertain. Enjoy. Transform!
To discover more about the Campus, please visit our websites, 
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