Mableton Mayor Michael Owens Honored for Completing Inaugural Georgia Mayors Leadership Academy

Mableton Mayor Michael Owens was recognized this past weekend at the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) 2025 Cities United Summit for successfully completing the inaugural Georgia Mayors Leadership Academy. Mayor Owens joined 54 other mayors from across the state in this prestigious leadership development program, which was held in August at the Georgia Center for Continuing Education at the University of Georgia in Athens.

The Georgia Mayors Leadership Academy, offered through the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute, is a collaboration between the GMA and the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government. Designed to provide mayors with essential leadership skills, the program aims to strengthen their ability to navigate challenges and enhance their impact within their communities.

“We are excited to collaborate with GMA to launch this new program for Georgia’s mayors,” said Rob Gordon, Director of UGA’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government. “This program provides mayors a unique opportunity to forge strong connections with peers from across the state and learn from experienced national and local leaders. The institute is proud to be a continued resource for Georgia’s city leadership development, supporting mayors in their efforts to enhance the quality of life for their residents.”

The immersive three-day program featured interactive sessions led by national experts, seasoned mayors, and crisis management professionals. Participants explored best practices in community engagement, strategic leadership, crisis response, and consensus-building.

“The Georgia Mayors Leadership Academy was developed to equip our mayors with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of leadership in our cities,” said Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of the Georgia Municipal Association. “We are proud to have partnered with the Carl Vinson Institute of Government to provide this innovative learning experience, and we are confident that our mayors will return to their communities inspired and better prepared to lead.”

Mayor Owens’ participation in this program highlights his commitment to fostering strong relationships, enhancing community engagement, and leading transformative initiatives in Mableton.

“It was an honor to be part of this inaugural program,” said Mayor Owens. “The insights and connections gained through this academy will be invaluable as we continue to build the City of Mableton and work together toward better communities and a stronger state.”