Inspiring stories from influential Columbus leaders, past and present
Columbus has seen leaders in business, law enforcement and other aspects of life who have helped shape the community today.
Jerald Mitchell made a significant mark as Chamber of Commerce president by focusing on economic growth and bringing projects to Columbus such as the Atlanta Braves’ Double-A team, the Clingstones, to the city. Ronzell Buckner devoted decades to empowering local youth by founding Turn Around Columbus and sharing fresh food from the George Washington Carver Victory Garden Farm.
In law enforcement, pioneers such as Freddie Brown, Clarence White, and others broke barriers as the first Black police officers in Columbus, paving the way for leaders such as Joe Robbins and Joyce Dent-Fitzpatrick. These stories show how both past and present leaders confront challenges and create lasting opportunities for others.
NO. 1: COLUMBUS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESIDENT REFLECTS ON PAST FOUR YEARS AS HE ENDS HIS TENURE
Jerald Mitchell became the first Black president and CEO of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce during a pandemic. Here’s what he learned. | Published October 31, 2024 | Read Full Story by Brittany McGee
NO. 2: ‘PASS IT ON.’ COLUMBUS MAN SHARES LESSONS FROM HIS YOUTH TO EMPOWER KIDS AND PROVIDE FOOD
The work this man has done in south Columbus through his grassroots organization led him to being named one of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Everyday Heroes. | Published January 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Brittany McGee
NO. 3: THESE 4 MEN WERE THE FIRST BLACK POLICE OFFICERS IN COLUMBUS, LEADING THE WAY FOR OTHERS
Although they wore the Columbus Police Department uniform, they weren’t free from prejudice within the department. | Published February 20, 2025 | Read Full Story by Kelby Hutchison…