With a strong commitment to local leadership and a vision for cities nationwide, Savannah’s Mayor Van Johnson steps into his role as the National League of Cities Second Vice President–continuing Georgia’s legacy of influence on the national stage.
In a special election held in December 2024, Savannah Mayor Van Johnson was named as the Second Vice President of the National League of Cities (NLC). The milestone marks a significant achievement not only for Savannah but for all of Georgia’s 537 cities. In addition to this milestone, Johnson was named one of Georgia Trend’s 2025 Most Influential Georgians for the fourth consecutive year.
Johnson’s new key leadership role within the NLC shows his commitment to advancing the interests of local governments across the nation.
“This is not just an honor for me but a recognition of the City of Savannah and for all Georgia’s cities on the national stage,” said Mayor Johnson. “It’s still sinking in. In my 22nd year of elected service, 16 years as alderman and now my six years as mayor to really reach the pinnacle of the association is just really a testament to not only our phenomenal state, but also the roles that have been led for us.”
The National League of Cities represents more than 19,000 cities, towns, and villages across the country, championing local governments in Washington, D.C., while providing resources that strengthen municipalities. Johnson’s appointment follows a strong tradition of Georgia leaders serving at the helm of the NLC, including GMA Past President and Union City Mayor Vince Williams, who served as NLC President from 2021-2022.
“Congratulations to Mayor Johnson on his appointment to the NLC’s Board of Directors. I know that as he continues to lead, not just Savannah and Georgia, but every city, town and village across this nation he will continue to lead in love.” Said Mayor Vince Williams.
Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) CEO & Executive Director Larry Hanson emphasized the importance of Johnson’s appointment and the impact it will have on cities across the state.
“Congratulations to Mayor Van Johnson on his election as Second Vice President for the National League of Cities. His vision and dedication has consistently improved the lives of those in his community, throughout the state of Georgia, and will now benefit cities throughout the country. Mayor Johnson has served GMA in many important ways throughout his distinguished career and we are grateful for his service and proud of this well-deserved election as the NLC’s Second Vice President. We know he will make all of Georgia’s cities proud as he advances to become NLC President in 2027.”
NLC’s CEO & Executive Director Clarence E. Anthony echoed this statement, noting Johnson’s leadership and the impact of his appointment for the state of Georgia.
“I’ve had the honor to know Mayor Van Johnson—not just as an amazing leader but also as my friend for more than 20 years. He has accomplished so much for the city of Savannah and now NLC gets to take advantage of his experience for the next few years while he serves as an officer on our Board of Directors. No one can predict tomorrow, but I can confidently say that the future of NLC is in great shape with Mayor Johnson as part of it. His leadership will build on the strong legacy that Georgia local leaders have built in NLC leadership, most recently with Union City Mayor Vince Williams, who always leads first with love. Georgia cities should be incredibly proud of the contributions they’ve made and continue to make at the federal level through their own involvement in the National League of Cities.”
As Mayor Johnson embarks on this new chapter with the NLC, his focus remains on strengthening partnerships, addressing key municipal challenges, and ensuring that cities across the country continue to thrive.
“I’m just so honored to represent my city, but certainly to represent the great state of Georgia,” said Mayor Johnson.
Current Georgia Leaders on the NLC Board of Directors
- Councilmember Byron Amos, Atlanta
- Councilmember Christina Hobbs, Union City
- Mayor Bianca Motley Broom, College Park
- Councilmember Hattie Portis-Jones, Fairburn
- Mayor Vince Williams, Union City
- Mayor Van Johnson, Savannah
Former NLC Presidents from Georgia
- 2022: Mayor Vince Williams, Union City
- 1995: Councilmember-at-Large Carolyn Banks Long, Atlanta
- 1979: Mayor John P. Rousakis, Savannah
- 1972: Mayor Sam Massell, Atlanta
- 1953: Mayor William B. Hartsfield, Atlanta