A few Columbus locals are among the most influential leaders in state, says GA magazine
Columbus, Georgia, is home to a remarkable array of leaders who have made significant contributions to this community through their respective industries and a few of them have been recognized in Georgia Trends Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential Georgians.
These superlatives exemplify innovation, dedication and a commitment to improving the lives of those around them. They have not only shaped their respective fields but have also played pivotal roles in enhancing the economic and social fabric of Columbus.
Georgia Trend Magazine selects the most influential people each year and it is a meticulous process that ultimately, “represents the best qualities the state has to offer.”
Dan Amos, Chairmen and CEO, Aflac, Inc
Amos has 34 years at Aflac and is the second longest-running CEO among Fortune 200 companies. He has guided Aflac from a revenue of $2.7 billion in 1990 to over $22.1 billion by 2021. Amos is also committed to philanthropy, notably through initiatives supporting childhood cancer research, raising $184 million to fund care and research.
Kevin Blair, Chairman, CEO, and President, Synovus
Blair has been a driving force at Synovus and steered the company to the number six spot on American Banker’s list of top 100 for customer reputation. Under his leadership, Synovus has enhanced its services and expanded its footprint across the Southeast and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution named Synovus a 2024 Top Workplace in Atlanta.
Skip Henderson, Mayor of Columbus
Henderson has been an influential figure in Columbus politics, serving two terms as mayor with a vision for growth and community improvement. He has courted microchip conductor maker, Micronize to make its home in Columbus. WalletHub ranked Columbus as the 12th best-run city in the U.S.
James G. Hillenbrand, President and CEO, W.C Bradey Co.
Hillenbrand leads W.C. Bradley Co., a historic company that has been part of Columbus for over a century and is responsible for overseeing operations that include outdoor consumer products like the local staple, Char-Broil. Men’s Journal named Charbroil’s Commercial Series 4 Burner as the best gas grill of 2024.
Stuart Rayfield, President, Columbus State University
Rayfield is the sixth president of Columbus State University, where she is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering student success. She assembled a 27-person commitment that developed a strategic plan centered on student success, responsible stewardship, community impact and economic competitiveness. Her strategic vision includes contributing significantly to shaping the future of education in Georgia and setting the standard for student success.
As part of Columbus’ legacy, these leaders contribute to the city’s reputation for growth and achievement and raise the profile of the city as a whole.
This story was originally published January 8, 2025 at 12:12 PM.
