Senator Warnock Addresses AMAC Members During Historic Induction of Atlanta Board

“We’re great because of our diversity.”

ATLANTA, GA  – In a historic and powerful ceremony, the City of Atlanta witnessed a defining moment in its aviation history. The induction of the founding board of the Atlanta Chapter of the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) was marked by grandeur and purpose, underscored by the commitment to uphold the legacy of former Atlanta mayor, Maynard H. Jackson, Jr. The event was made even more significant by the presence of a U.S. Senator who played a crucial role in preventing a state takeover of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, a vital symbol of the city’s economic strength.

Hosted by Atlanta City Council Transportation Chair Byron Amos and Vice Chair Marci Collier Overstreet, the induction ceremony took place in the Atlanta City Council Chamber on September 23. The Fulton County Honor Guard led the board in a dignified procession, followed by a stirring performance of both the National Anthem and the African American Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” by the Jennifer Freeman Trio and trumpeter Melvin Miller. Jonathan Martin, 11Alive Anchor, served as the emcee, and the officers were formally sworn in by Fulton County Chief Probate Judge Kenya Johnson. A highlight was the “ribboning” of each officer with a unique AMAC medal, presented by Chair Amos and Vice Chair Overstreet, signifying their commitment to advancing minority participation in the aviation industry.

“This is a pivotal moment for our city and for the AMAC organization,” said Councilmember Amos.   “We are carrying on the legacy of Mayor Jackson, ensuring that the world’s busiest airport remains a beacon of economic opportunity for all.”

Alicia Ivey, the newly sworn-in president of the Atlanta chapter, reflected on the chapter’s dedication to Jackson’s vision. “Mayor Jackson’s legacy is not just a chapter in our history; it’s the foundation of our mission. We are here to ensure that his vision for inclusivity and economic empowerment continues to thrive at Hartsfield-Jackson and beyond. We are committed to creating opportunities that mirror the values he championed.”

U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock delivered an inspiring keynote address, highlighting Jackson’s monumental role in establishing the city’s inclusion program. He recounted how, during the construction of the new airport facility, Mayor Jackson boldly mandated that one-fourth of all contracts go to minority-owned firms, forever changing the economic landscape of Atlanta.

“He understood that we’re not great in spite of our diversity; we’re great because of our diversity,” Senator Warnock proclaimed, to resounding applause. He lauded Jackson for fostering collaboration between White and Black-owned companies, paving the way for the robust minority participation in airport contracts that we see today.

As the only national non-profit trade organization dedicated to promoting the participation of minority- and women-owned businesses in the aviation space, “AMAC has been at the forefront of  creating an economic opportunity for all – carrying on Maynard’s torch,”  the Senator stated.

Senator Warnock also expressed pride in championing the recent FAA Reauthorization bill, which includes his provision to safeguard the Atlanta Airport from state control. “With the incredible history, culture, and businesses that make up our city, and as the region’s premier economic generator…it’s only right that Atlanta continues to control this gateway to the city,” he asserted.

He assured the audience that he remains a senator “for all the people of Georgia,” emphasizing that the new legislation will channel millions of federal dollars into Georgia’s aviation infrastructure, further enhancing the state’s airports and supporting the economic growth that AMAC strives to promote.

AMAC Atlanta has ambitious plans for the coming year, beginning with a board planning retreat scheduled for next month, President Ivey revealed.    “After that, it’s full steam ahead,” she declared. “We are ready to take bold steps to ensure that our work reflects the principles and progress that Mayor Jackson envisioned for our community. The Atlanta Chapter of AMAC is poised to be a transformative force in the aviation industry, committed to expanding opportunities and fostering a new era of inclusive growth.”

AMAC Atlanta Leaders:

President:  Alicia Ivey, CEO|President, Goldbergs Concessions Corporation

Vice President of Aviation: Walter Vinson, Assistant General Manager – Business Diversity & Government Affairs, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Vice President of Finance: James Manley, Vice President – Aviation National Practice, HNTB

Vice President of Programs: Wayne Jordan, General Manager, CLEAR Airport Security Screening Service

Vice President of Membership: Thomas Wilson, Vice President – Aviation, Pond & Company

Vice President of Public Relations: Myrna White, Managing Principal, Everest Global Engagement & Everest Specialties, LLC

Vice President of Corporate Relations: Lemonica Hakeem, CEO|President, Conekt Hospitality, LLC

Secretary: Kristen Barnett, President, National Concessions Management, LLC

 

Media Contact
Myrna White: 404-416-0043

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About AMAC: The Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the full participation of minority- and women-owned businesses in aviation and aerospace industries. Founded in 1984, AMAC advocates for the inclusion of these businesses in the contracting and employment opportunities available throughout airports nationwide.  The national organization recently implemented a structure for the organization of local chapters.

For more information, visit amac-org.com