Isaiah Hugley’s journey from the red clay roads of Crawford, Alabama, to becoming Columbus’s first and longest-serving Black City Manager is a testament to faith, family, and fierce dedication to public service. Raised by his mother, Rozell Hugley Wilborn—a domestic worker and church leader—Isaiah learned early that integrity, discipline, and service to others were non-negotiable. Despite growing up in poverty, without indoor plumbing and relying on well water, his childhood was rich with values that would guide a historic career.

Isaiah’s leadership spans decades and five mayors. His work helped shape Columbus into a more equitable, efficient, and forward-thinking city. Inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame, he is celebrated not just for the policies he advanced, but for the heart and humility he brought to city governance.

His family legacy is equally inspiring. Isaiah is married to Carolyn Hugley, the longest-serving woman in the Georgia House of Representatives and the first African American to serve as House Whip. Their love story began at Mississippi State University, where both pursued public policy and shared a vision of creating meaningful change.

Together, they raised two children, Kimberly and Isaiah Jr., continuing the Hugley tradition of excellence, education, and service. Isaiah’s sister, Pat Hugley Green, chairs the Muscogee County School Board and was the first Columbus resident to serve as president of the Georgia School Boards Association—making the Hugleys a powerhouse family of civic leadership.

Isaiah believes deeply in giving back. “It’s not where you come from,” he often says. “It’s where you’re going.” His legacy is one of transformation, built on faith, family, and an unshakable commitment to uplifting others.