18-04-2025
Mayor Van Johnson named African American Mayors Association president
WASHINGTON, D.C. (WSAV) — The African American Mayors Association (AAMA) is proud to announce that Mayor Van R. Johnson II of Savannah, Georgia, has been appointed as President of the national nonprofit organization. Mayor Johnson was officially sworn in on Friday, April 18, at the conclusion of AAMA's annual conference in Washington, DC.
'As we continue to build on the legacy of the African American Mayors Association and advocate for the needs of the over 500 mayors within our growing organization, I am delighted to welcome Mayor Van R. Johnson II as our new President,' said AAMA CEO, Phyllis Dickerson. 'Mayor Johnson's dedication to public service and his innovative approach to city leadership make him a perfect choice to lead our organization into the future. We are eager to support his vision for our member cities and communities. I also want to thank Mayor Steven Reed for his incredible service to our cities and our organization this past year.
During his term, Mayor Reed elevated the organization's national profile and expanded its reach through bold initiatives centered on equity and opportunity. He convened AAMA's inaugural Voting Rights Summit in partnership with When We All Vote, brought a delegation of Black mayors to Silicon Valley to forge connections with tech and venture capital leaders, and launched The Forum with the Black Economic Alliance Foundation to accelerate Black economic mobility.
'Serving as President of the African American Mayors Association has been one of the most fulfilling roles I've ever taken on. Together, we advanced bold ideas around economic mobility, fairness, and innovation—because our communities deserve nothing less,' said outgoing AAMA President Mayor Steven Reed. As I pass the baton to Mayor Van Johnson, I do so with pride and optimism. He brings the leadership, passion, and vision needed to take this organization to even greater heights.'
Mayor Johnson, a lifelong public servant and leader, has served as Mayor of Savannah since 2020. He is recognized for his commitment to equity, community engagement, and sustainable growth in one of Georgia's most historic cities. Previously, Johnson served four terms as alderman for the Savannah City Council's 1st District. Prior to his election as AAMA President, Mayor Johnson served as the organization's Treasurer and has been an active member of the Board of Trustees.
'I am deeply honored to serve as President of the African American Mayors Association,' said Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson II. 'I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to advocate for the needs of our cities at the national level. Together, we will continue to address the pressing challenges facing our communities, from public safety and economic opportunity to health equity and infrastructure investment.'
During his one-year term as AAMA President, Mayor Johnson plans to focus on strengthening public safety, supporting minority-owned businesses, fostering workforce development, and championing equitable infrastructure investments. He also aims to enhance collaboration with federal partners and drive forward policies that improve quality of life for residents in cities across the country.
Mayor Johnson's 2025 AAMA policy priorities are focused on the theme 'Let's Build,' building new relationships, building AAMA's capacity areas and building AAMA's legacy.
In addition to announcing its 2025 president, AAMA also approved its Board of Trustees during the Annual Conference:
1st Vice President – Mayor Brandon Scott (Baltimore, MD)
2nd Vice President – Mayor Phillip Jones (Newport News, VA)
Treasurer – Mayor Errick Simmons (Greenville, MS)
Secretary – Mayor LaToya Cantrell (New Orleans, LA)
President Emeritus – Mayor Steven Reed (Montgomery, AL)
President Emeritus – Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard (Mt. Vernon, NY)
President Emeritus – Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. (Little Rock, AR)
Board Member – Mayor Vince Williams (Union City, GA)
Board Member – Mayor Eric Adams (New York, NY)
Board Member – Mayor Kim Thomas (Richmond Heights, OH)
Board Member – Mayor Vi Lyles (Charlotte, NC)
Board Member – Mayor Leonardo Williams (Durham, NC)
Board Member – Mayor Keith James (West Palm Beach. FL)
Board Member – Mayor Victoria Woodards (Tacoma, VA)
Board Member – Mayor Bruce Harrell (Seattle, WA)
Board Member – Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert (New Rochelle, NY)
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