April Howard Makes History in Peach County Leadership
April Howard made history in 2022 when she became the first Black woman to serve as County Administrator in Peach County, Georgia. With 16 years of experience in local government, she now leads with a passion for service and community growth.
At 40 years old, Howard looks back at her journey with pride. She started as an administrative technician at 24, steadily rising through the ranks. “I started here at the age of 24,” she said. “Now that I’m in my 40s, looking back, sometimes I have to pinch myself because I can’t believe I’m now at 40.”
A Steady Climb to Leadership
Howard never planned to reach this level of leadership. She initially aimed to become a county clerk but surpassed her own expectations. “I only wanted to be the county clerk, and that’s what my mind was set on,” she explained. “So I’ve surpassed that goal I even had.”
Her dedication to public service and her community fueled her rise. “I’ve always enjoyed helping other people,” she said. “I love this community. I love Peach County. I love the employees here.”
Inspired by Family Values
Howard credits her strong leadership values to her maternal grandmother, who raised 17 children and believed in giving back to the community. “She taught me how to be a strong woman and to speak my mind,” Howard shared. “She fed everybody in the community—that was her love language.”
Her grandmother’s example helped shape her approach to leadership—one that blends compassion with resilience.
Balancing Career and Motherhood
Outside of work, Howard is a dedicated mother to two boys, Ivan and Anthony. She makes it a priority to be present in their lives despite her demanding role. “I do the best that I can, and I do make a lot of sacrifices so I can be an active mom,” she said.
She often brings her sons to Board of Commissioners’ meetings and cheers them on at school events. For Howard, leadership extends beyond the office and into her home.
Looking Toward the Future
Howard’s goal as County Administrator is to leave a lasting impact. “The overall goal is to leave it better than me coming along as County Administrator,” she said. She is committed to helping Peach County navigate its growth while maintaining its strong sense of community.
Beyond government work, Howard is exploring creative outlets. She is considering writing a children’s book inspired by her youngest son and has even thought about becoming a life coach after retirement.
Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders
Howard encourages young women who aspire to leadership roles to stay true to themselves. “Do it for yourself because that’s what you want to do in your heart,” she advised. “Always do what you want to do in your heart, never what people want you to do. That’s what leads to success.”
