NORCROSS, Ga. | Gwinnett County Wednesday honored the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter with a county-wide tribute that brought together students, residents and community partners for a day of service, reflection and celebration.
Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson says: “His commitment to peace, human rights and building stronger communities has inspired generations. Gwinnett County is proud to honor his legacy by carrying forward those same values of unity, compassion and service.”
The day’s events, held at Best Friend Park included:
- A special presentation of a Proclamation and Key to the County to the Carter family.
- The unveiling of a new Gateway85 CID mural on Jimmy Carter Boulevard.
- A Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity plan to construct homes for local families.
- The announcement of the winners of the Jimmy Carter Legacy Art and Essay Contest, presented in partnership with Gwinnett County Public Schools.
- The lighting of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center in blue and white, coinciding with a symbolic light activation on the Jimmy Carter Boulevard bridge.
Gateway85 CID Executive Director Robert Michener says: “President Carter’s values of service and support for a diverse community are felt every day in our district. We created a mural featuring his likeness to spotlight his impact and the progress he inspired. At Gateway85 CID, we’re proud to invest in projects that improve our community and honor his legacy. In fact, in coordination with the County, we will light the bridge on Jimmy Carter Boulevard blue from Oct. 1 – 4 to celebrate the man behind the name and his contributions to this area.”
GCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Al Taylor spoke to the crowd: “President Carter showed us that when communities and schools work hand in hand, everyone thrives. Jimmy Carter Day reminds us that the strength of Gwinnett lies in our partnerships—when local leaders, families and educators come together, we create opportunities that honor his legacy and build a brighter future for all.”
As part of the day’s recognition, 39 GCPS students were honored through the Jimmy Carter Legacy Art and Essay Contest, a powerful reflection of Carter’s role as the 39th President of the United States. The art work of the top three winners will be at the Carter Center Library and Museum.
The top three art contest winners, Rockbridge Elementary student Barbara Cabrera; Paul Duke STEM High student Brielle Boahima; and McClure Health Science High student Sheyla Argueta-Leal, will find a temporary home for their winning art at the Carter Presidential Library and Museum through Dec. 1, 2025. An additional 36 honorable mentions will be featured online and displayed at three public locations across Gwinnett, Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center in Lawrenceville; Norcross Public Library; and Best Friend Park Community Center Norcross.
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