RANDY HICKS

Randy Hicks: A Champion for Opportunity and Transformation

A Leader Shaping a Brighter Future for All

Randy Hicks stands at the forefront of societal change as the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Georgia Center for Opportunity (GCO). Under his visionary leadership since 1997, GCO has evolved into a beacon of hope and progress, embodying its mission to ensure equitable access to quality education, meaningful employment, and family stability, regardless of race, past mistakes, or birth circumstances.

Pioneering Policy and Community Initiatives

Hicks’ tenure at GCO is marked by impactful statewide and local efforts that have significantly advanced public policy in education, family support, public safety, and employment opportunities, extending benefits to un-and under-employed Americans both within Georgia and beyond. His initiatives reflect a deep commitment to enhancing socioeconomic mobility and creating a foundation for thriving communities.

Influential Voice and Thought Leader

A respected speaker on public policy, education, employment, and family formation, Hicks’ insights are sought after in various forums. His contributions have led to key roles, such as serving on the Supreme Court Commission on Children, Marriage, and Family Law at the invitation of former Georgia Chief Justice Leah Sears. Notably, Hicks co-led a pioneering study on the national taxpayer costs of divorce and unwed childbearing and played a pivotal role in a White House conference focused on family-strengthening community initiatives.

Recognitions and Achievements

Randy’s exceptional leadership and innovative approach to public policy and community engagement earned him the prestigious Thomas A. Roe Award from the State Policy Network in 2022. This accolade celebrates his accomplishments in spearheading initiatives that have made tangible differences in people’s lives.

Early Advocacy and Educational Foundations

Before GCO, Hicks was instrumental in promoting family-strengthening initiatives across the United States, from his work with Stronger Families in Seattle to his role at Focus on the Family. As a principal speechwriter and community liaison for California State Senator Marian Bergeson, Hicks honed his skills in public policy and advocacy.

Board Contributions and Future Aspirations

Currently, Hicks serves on the boards of the Mothers Advocacy Project (MAP) and Corners Outreach, driving initiatives that aim to disrupt cycles of maltreatment and open doors to education and economic opportunities for underserved communities in Atlanta. His ongoing efforts underscore a relentless pursuit of a future where opportunity is not just a concept, but a lived reality for all.

Educational Background and Personal Life

Hicks’ foundation in political science was laid at the University of Southern California, followed by a M.Div. from Biola University. His academic background informs his nuanced understanding of the intersections between public policy, community engagement, and social change.

Randy, alongside his wife Marilyn, navigates life with a deep sense of community and family, sharing the joy of parenting six adult children and cherishing moments with their three grandchildren. Residing in Suwanee, Georgia, they embody the values at the heart of Hicks’ work: opportunity, family, and community.

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