Waynesboro Remembers First Black and Female Mayor Pauline Jenkins

Jenkins made history in 2011 as the city's first Black and first female mayor.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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On December 6, 2011, Pauline Jenkins, a native of Waynesboro, Georgia, made history by becoming the city's first Black mayor and its first female mayor in a runoff election. Jenkins expressed pride in the opportunity to serve the community.

Why it matters

Jenkins' election represented an important milestone for the city of Waynesboro, breaking down long-standing barriers and paving the way for greater diversity and representation in local government. Her victory highlighted the progress that can be made when a community comes together to support qualified candidates regardless of race or gender.

The details

In the runoff election on December 6, 2011, Pauline Jenkins defeated her opponent to become Waynesboro's first Black mayor and first female mayor. Jenkins, a lifelong resident of Waynesboro, had previously served on the city council and was known as a tireless advocate for the community.

  • Pauline Jenkins was elected mayor of Waynesboro on December 6, 2011.

The players

Pauline Jenkins

The first Black and first female mayor of Waynesboro, Georgia, elected in 2011.

Waynesboro

A city in Georgia where Pauline Jenkins made history as the first Black and first female mayor.

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What they’re saying

“I'm just so proud to have the privilege to serve. I want to do a […]”

— Pauline Jenkins, Mayor (The True Citizen)

The takeaway

Pauline Jenkins' historic election as Waynesboro's first Black and first female mayor in 2011 represented an important milestone for the community, breaking down long-standing barriers and paving the way for greater diversity and representation in local government.