Gwinnett County today honored the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter with a countywide tribute that brought together students, residents and community partners for a day of service, reflection and celebration.

"President Carter’s life was defined by service, to his community, his country and the world,” said Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “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 and across the County, 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 Build 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.

"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,” said Gateway85 CID Executive Director Robert Michener. “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."

“Jimmy Carter understood that our faith, our humanity, calls us to action. He and his wife, Rosalynn, are the best examples of what it means to serve a community with humility and purpose,” added Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Eric Miller.

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.

"President Carter showed us that when communities and schools work hand in hand, everyone thrives,” said GCPS Interim Superintendent Dr. Al Taylor. “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.” 

The Top 3 winners, Rockbridge Elementary student Barbar Cabrera, Paul Duke STEM High student Brielle Boahima and McClure Health Science High student Sheyla Argueta-Leal, will find a temporary home 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

• Best Friend Park Community Center Norcross