Mayor Van R. Johnson II
Mayor Van R. Johnson II is the official head of the City of Savannah. He presides over all meetings of the Mayor and Aldermen and, as Executive Officer, signs all motions, resolutions, and ordinances passed by the Savannah City Council. In times of danger or emergency, the Mayor may command the police and govern the city by proclamation, maintaining order, and enforcing laws.
As the 67th mayor of Savannah, Georgia, the Honorable Dr. Van R. Johnson II embodies purpose, passion, and a relentless commitment to people.
Rooted in the values of service and community, Mayor Johnson was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, yet his Savannah heritage runs deep. He is a proud alumnus of Savannah State University and Georgia Southern University, where he earned undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Mayor Johnson is a dynamic communicator, former radio talk show host, political commentator, and newspaper columnist renowned for his independent thought and passionate advocacy. He is a nationally certified human resources professional and a Georgia-certified law enforcement professional. His insight and leadership have made him a highly sought-after trainer, speaker, and consultant. He is also an alumnus of Leadership Savannah and Leadership Georgia.
In 2004, Mayor Johnson began his political career as the First District Alderman, a position he held for 16 years. Re-elected by commanding majorities, he served as mayor pro tem and Vice Chairman of the City Council. Throughout his tenure, he championed equity, inclusion, and justice, using his platform to advocate for the underserved and underrepresented—the least, the last, and the lost.
On the national stage, Mayor Johnson’s influence extends far beyond Savannah. He is the President of the African American Mayors Association, the 2nd Vice President of the National League of Cities, and a member of the United States Conference of Mayors.
A trailblazer in youth development, Mayor Johnson’s visionary leadership as Director of the Chatham County Youth Commission for more than 30 years has shaped future generations. His mentorship has inspired the creation of youth leadership programs nationwide, including co-founding the Savannah Youth Council in 2004.
Locally, his service to children, families, and the most vulnerable has been steadfast. He has served as board president of organizations such as the Wesley Community Centers of Savannah and chaired the Chatham County Department of Family and Children Services. He is a life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, and Delta Sigma Pi, among other distinguished civic and professional organizations.
Mayor Johnson’s visionary leadership, humanitarian efforts, and transformative impact have earned him widespread recognition. Savannah State University conferred him a Doctor of Humane Letters, and he has been honored as one of Georgia Trend Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Georgians for four consecutive years.