100 Most Influential Georgians

Rising to the Challenge

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy,” said Martin Luther King Jr.

His words are as applicable today as they were when he wrote them in 1963, as the world continues to face the challenges and controversies of pandemic, economic recession and political fighting.

For this, the 23rd annual listing of the 100 Most Influential Georgians, Georgia Trend has assembled a group of remarkable people, many of whom have risen to the challenges of the past year to help make life better for all Georgians.

In this year’s list, you’ll find CEOs, politicians, college presidents, nonprofit and economic development leaders, among others, who have inspired and spearheaded efforts to meet and beat challenges in virtually every corner of the Peach State. Some are very public figures, while others work quietly behind the scenes. All are tireless and passionate in pursuit of their vision for a better Georgia.

Selecting the most influential leaders is a daunting task and one that involves much discussion, mulling and refinement by the Georgia Trend staff. Our initial list typically contains many more than 100 names, and there are always last-minute changes as a result of retirements, power shifts and late-in-the-year hirings. However, we believe this year’s final group represents the best qualities of leadership, power, character and influence the state has to offer.

Along with the most influential, we’ve included a list of Notable Georgians on page 54. These are individuals who’ve also made a significant impact on residents’ lives.

Profiles of the 100 Most Influential Georgians were written by Betty Darby, Mary Ann DeMuth, Mary Anne Dunkin, Karen Kirkpatrick, Brian Lee, Michele Cohen Marill, Rebecca McCarthy, Patty Rasmussen and Randy Southerland.

Click HERE to view the complete list