Carolyn Crayton, founder and CEO emeritus of Macon’s Cherry Blossom Festival, recently started her term as chairwoman of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs board.

Crayton also is founder and past president of the Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful Commission, the festival’s parent organization.

Crayton served as the DCA board’s vice chairwoman last year. She was appointed to the board in 2007. She also serves on several agency and community boards, including the directors of Keep America Beautiful Inc.

The DCA was created in 1977 as an advocate for local governments and operates a number of state and federal grant programs.