Earlier this year, the University of Georgia announced the 2024 40 Under 40 honorees. The winners include 8 graduates with SPIA degrees. 40 Under 40 celebrates young alumni leading the pack in their industries and communities. Learn more about our Honoree Leanna Brown, vice president of business climate for the Metro Atlanta Chamber.

What was your favorite SPIA class or favorite SPIA professor?
Post-Industrial Democracies. It completely changed my understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the American political system compared to European political systems.

What obscure thing are you talented at?
Writing and editing. I can write a good story and I’m obnoxious about grammar. I blame my mom and UGA for that.

What is one weird fact or tidbit that you still remember from school?
The largest streaking event ever was at UGA in March 1974. I later learned my Dad participated.

What one superpower would you give to everyone in the world? How would the world change?
The ability to fly. If everyone could more easily see how amazing this world is and how fascinating other cultures are, we’d look after each other and the Earth a lot more.

What is your favorite band or artist?
John Williams or Hans Zimmer

Where’s the next place on your travel bucket list and why?
Scandinavia to see the Northern Lights!

If you could have dinner with one famous person, living or dead, who would it be? Why?
George Washington—what a talented, forward-thinking leader. He led a new army to establish a new country against the odds and stepped aside for the sake a young, fragile country.

What is one piece of advice you have for current SPIA students?
Build your network—fellow students, guest lecturers, alumni, professors. You’re going to need them someday!