Clayton County Board of Commissioners installs its first-ever Black female chair

|

January 15th, 2025

Newly installed Chairwoman of the Clayton County Board of Commissioners Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry is the first Black chairwoman of the commission. (Courtesy of Clayton County Government).

Kevin Winter / Kevin Winter

Clayton County is welcoming its first-ever Black woman as commission chair. Alieka Anderson-Henry was installed as chairwoman in early January. 

Anderson-Henry has dedicated herself to working in various county departments, including Clayton’s housing authority and board of education. 

Before her path to chairwoman, Anderson-Henry helped the Clayton County School District regain its accreditation after the district lost it in the early 2000s.

“This is not just a personal milestone, but a testament to the progress we have made together, Clayton County, and the promise of what we can achieve together,” said Anderson-Henry during her inauguration speech. 

The new chair served as the District 1 County Commissioner in 2021, dedicating herself to issues like senior support and economic development.

Anderson-Henry ran for the position of chair last year. She defeated retired tax commissioner Terry L. Baskin in the May 2024 general primary. 

The new chair said she believes being the first Black woman in the position is an achievement. Still, she said, it takes a village to continue improving the county. 

“It’s not about me. Believe that. But it’s about you and I working together. It is about all of us, the families, the workers, the dreamers, and the doers,” Anderson-Henry said. “The doers who make Clayton County the incredible county that it is today.”

Chairwoman Anderson-Henry said she’s committed to collaboration, community, and consistency during her term. 

Related

Top Stories