Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller has been named one of Georgia Trend magazine’s Top 100 Most Influential Georgians, receiving statewide recognition for his leadership and focus on community-driven progress.

Mayor Miller was honored at the Georgia Trend Top 100 Luncheon on Thursday, January 29, at the Georgia Aquarium, where he also delivered remarks to fellow honorees from across the state.

Each year, Georgia Trend staff select 100 individuals whose leadership benefits their organizations and communities while helping shape Georgia’s future. The list includes leaders from government, business, education, and nonprofit sectors who share what the magazine calls “a common strength of purpose.”

During his remarks, Mayor Miller emphasized that influence should be used to improve local communities, not simply to earn recognition.

“To me, standing here is not the goal,” said Miller. “The goal is to create a better community for the people around us.”

He highlighted partnerships as a key driver of progress in Macon-Bibb County, pointing to efforts such as removing more than 800 blighted structures, expanding access to mental health and youth programs, and opening the Brookdale Resource Center to help connect people experiencing homelessness with services and stable housing.

Mayor Miller closed by encouraging leaders across Georgia to use their influence to make lasting improvements in their communities.

“Today isn’t about celebrating individuals,” he said. “It’s about celebrating what is possible in our communities when we work together.”

Other Maconites featured in the Top 100 list include President of the Agribusiness Council Will Bentley and President/CEO of the Georgia Forestry Association and Georgia Forestry Foundation Tim Lowrimore. Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority Executive Director Stephen Adams and Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Jessica Walden were featured as Notable Georgians.