The Leadership Georgia Board of Trustees proudly announces the 2025 recipients of the organization’s most prestigious awards. These awards recognize and honor Georgians who exemplify the principles of Leadership Georgia through their leadership, commitment, and stewardship, all of which benefit Georgia and its communities.

Each year, the Board of Trustees celebrates extraordinary Georgians who give of themselves—time, talent, and treasure—to uplift others and shape a stronger, more united Georgia. The 2025 honorees are shining examples of servant leadership, reminding us that true progress is born from purpose. Their legacy sparks others to lead boldly—with head, hand, and heart—for the betterment of every corner of the state.

The 2025 honorees are:

• The Honorable Andre Dickens

• Nancy and Jim Buntin

• Laura Whitaker

• The Honorable Chris Carr

These distinguished Georgians will be formally recognized during Leadership Georgia’s Annual Alumni Awards Gala on Saturday, November 15th in Marietta, Georgia. The annual black-tie event draws hundreds of alumni and guests who help support the organization’s programs, enabling Leadership Georgia to continue its fifty-three-year mission of developing Georgia’s leaders.

Mayor Andre Dickens exemplifies the legacy of J.W. Fanning through visionary leadership, transformative service, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of all Georgians. From expanding affordable housing to championing public safety and sustainable infrastructure, Mayor Dickens has led with integrity, innovation, and inclusivity. His statewide influence—spanning economic development, education, environmental resilience, and civic engagement—reflects both the breadth and depth of achievement this award honors. A proud native son of Atlanta, Mayor Dickens embodies the spirit of progress that moves Georgia forward.

Nancy and Jim Buntin embody the very spirit of the Frederick B. Kerr Service Award—lifelong champions of Leadership Georgia whose commitment has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since graduating with the Class of 1985, they have served as Trustees, Program Chairs, and with Jim as President, each role marked by tireless dedication and unwavering support. Their impact extends far beyond LG, deeply rooted in the Columbus community. Nancy’s extensive service—leading the Columbus State University Foundation, March of Dimes, and a host of civic and charitable boards—mirrors Jim’s leadership with organizations ranging from the Red Carpet Tour and the Columbus Development Authority to his faithful service as a church deacon. Their decades of continuous engagement reflect not only a love for their community, but a legacy within the Leadership Georgia family.

Laura Hope Whitaker represents the very heart of the E. Dale Threadgill Community Service Award—transforming principles into purpose and vision into action. As a Leadership Georgia alumna, she has applied servant leadership with extraordinary impact, building ESP from a small summer camp into a thriving, multi-city nonprofit that empowers over 1,000 individuals with disabilities and their families. At just 19, Laura answered the call to lead with courage and compassion, and today, nearly two decades later, her work continues to enrich communities across Georgia. Through her unwavering dedication, innovative spirit, and deep well of empathy, Laura has not only changed lives—she has redefined what inclusive leadership looks like.

Attorney General Chris Carr is a shining example of what it means to lead with purpose, principle, and public service at heart. Throughout his distinguished career—as Georgia’s Attorney General, Commissioner of Economic Development, and longtime Leadership Georgia supporter—Carr has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to justice, innovation, and the common good. From launching groundbreaking units to combat human trafficking, gangs, and organized retail crime, to securing critical opioid settlements that will benefit generations of Georgians, his leadership is both bold and compassionate. Even while managing the immense demands of public office, Carr continues to champion the values of unity, mentorship, and service that define Leadership Georgia. He is a true servant leader whose impact extends from the Capitol to communities across the state.