Leading with Purpose: From the Baseball Diamond to Public Service

When Larry Hanson, the CEO and Executive Director of the Georgia Municipal Association, was recently honored as one of Georgia's "Most Admired CEOs" by the Atlanta Business Chronicle in August, it wasn't just another accolade to add to his impressive resume. For Larry, it reminded him of a different dream he once had - a dream of playing professional baseball. Long before he became one of the most respected voices in the state, Larry spent countless hours on the baseball diamond, learning lessons that would later shape his leadership philosophy.

From the Dugout to the Boardroom

Growing up in Valdosta, Larry had his eyes set on a baseball career. He was dedicated, disciplined, and full of potential, with a passion for the sport that fueled his early ambitions. But life, like baseball, has a way of throwing curveballs. When injuries sidelined his athletic aspirations, Larry shifted his focus, channeling the same drive and determination into public service.

"My love for sports led me to go to the city and get a job in Parks and Recreation," said Hanson. "I could maintain that connectivity I had with something I loved." Hanson began his career with the city of Valdosta as a part-time worker for the city's Parks and Recreation department - holding various roles and administrative positions, including athletic director and assistant director of parks and recreation, and later becoming the director of parks and recreation and community affairs for Valdosta.

Though his career took a different path, the lessons he learned on the field continued to stay with him. The patience required at bat, the strategy involved in pitching, and the camaraderie of working as a team became tools that would serve him well in local government.

Building a Championship Team

Since stepping into his role at GMA, Larry has led with the mindset of a coach, always looking for ways to empower others. Much like a baseball manager, he believes in putting the right people in the right positions and giving them the confidence to excel. Under his leadership, the organization has grown its influence, supporting local governments in ways that strengthen communities across the state.

"Larry's leadership at GMA has been transformative," says GMA President and Mayor of Madison, Fred Perriman. "His unwavering dedication to fostering strong, people-centric communities and his visionary approach have not only shaped Georgia's cities but also inspired those around him to elevate their commitment to public service."

His leadership extends beyond the walls of GMA's headquarters. He's helped local governments tackle tough challenges, from workforce development to Georgia City Solutions' work in civility. His ability to bring people together, find solutions, and inspire action has impacted the cities GMA serves.

"Larry's visionary leadership embodies his passion and commitment to the growth and success of all Georgia cities," said Mayor Randall Walker of Perry and GMA's Immediate Past President. "His leadership inspires me with its forward-thinking and bold actions. By encouraging others to dream bigger, lead with integrity, and envision a brighter future, he truly empowers those around him."

The Power of Coaching in Leadership

One of Larry's core leadership beliefs comes from his days on the field: a leader's job isn't to do it all, but to develop others to step up and succeed. He often talks about the importance of fostering a culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

"Larry believes the Association's employees are the organization's greatest strength," says Bill Thornton, GMA's Deputy Executive Director. "His focus on communication, collaboration and listening and investing in staff professional development have played a significant role in talent recruitment and retention and creating a collegial work environment that fosters innovation and a commitment to excellence."

Whether mentoring career-rising young professionals or working with elected officials, Larry leads with a servant's heart, ensuring that others are equipped to lead.

"I am driven internally to try and be the best that I can be myself, professionally so that I can be the best leader I can be for others to be a supportive, mentoring, coaching leader of people," reflects Hanson. "It's not just a matter of leading and it's not just a matter of directing people. Leadership is about having a culture of collaboration and having a culture where people join into a vision that they're not told what to do, but they help shape it, build it, and carry that out."

A Humbling Honor

When Larry received the recent award, he was quick to share the credit. In his acceptance speech, he highlighted the work of his teammates, the local leaders he's partnered with, and the cities that have inspired him. He expressed his gratitude not for the recognition itself but for the opportunity to serve.

"My experience also taught me that we don't succeed only because of what is inside us but also by who is around us. This and all awards are the result of the efforts of those we work with and those we work for. Individuals succeed only when organizations succeed."

His humility and dedication have earned him the respect of his peers. For Larry, this award isn't the pinnacle of his career but another milestone on a journey defined by service, leadership, and a relentless commitment to making a difference.

Legacy of Leadership

As he reflects on his career, Larry often draws parallels between his time as a young baseball player and his work in local government. The discipline, teamwork, and resilience he learned on the field have shaped him into today's leader - one who leads with integrity, listens to those around him, and always keeps his eye on the long-term vision.

"There will be moments in life you will never forget that stick with you. We all have them. It's always an important quality in dealing with adversity," reflects Hanson. "Everything is not going to be successful, and sometimes it's about you picking up, and as a leader, you've got to show your team how to do that and make sure people know that things are going to be ok."

As Larry looks ahead, his vision remains as focused as ever: building stronger, more resilient communities through collaboration and servant leadership. Just like in the game of baseball, where the next inning holds new opportunities, Larry continues to inspire and empower those around him, knowing that the true measure of success is not found in personal accolades but in the lasting impact, he leaves on the people and places he serves. With each new challenge, he steps up to the plate, ready to guide others toward a brighter, more unified future where every Georgia city has a chance to win.

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