2026 100 Most Influential Georgians

This year’s Georgian of the Year, Grady Health System President and CEO John Haupert, got to where he is today not only because of his years of experience and hard work, but also because of his can-do mindset. That attribute can be found in most of the people who run businesses, schools and nonprofits or serve in regional and state government in the state’s 159 counties.

Georgia Trend is honoring 100 of these impressive people on our annual list of Most Influential Georgians. In addition to benefiting companies throughout Georgia with their leadership, these men and women also serve on boards and foundations and use their influence to help improve their communities.

In this year’s list, you’ll find administrators and entrepreneurs, bankers, engineers, elected officials and experts in finance, technology and law as well as those who educate others, run foundations and oversee economic development. You’ll probably recognize some of the names and faces. And others perform their important work behind the scenes. No matter their background or area of expertise, they share a common strength of purpose.

In selecting the state’s most influential people each year, the Georgia Trend staff has the tough job of narrowing down a rather sizable list of impressive people to just 100. It takes time and effort, but ultimately we feel the group chosen represents the best qualities the state has to offer.

There is also a list of Notable Georgians on page 66. These are individuals who have also made a significant impact in the Peach State over the years.

Profiles of the 100 Most Influential Georgians were written by Kathleen Conway, Mary Anne Dunkin, Karen Kirkpatrick, Don Sadler and Kenna Simmons. 

Visit the entire list here, on our digital publication.