TIFTON – In its January edition, Georgia Trend has named Monty Veazey of Tifton, president and chief executive officer of the Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals, as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians.

“Georgia Trend’s 24th annual list of Most Influential Georgians features a group of remarkable leaders who have had a tremendous positive impact on the strength and character of our state,” said Ben Young, Georgia Trend publisher. “Our year-round process involves vetting and selecting 100 outstanding individuals out of thousands who work tirelessly to create a better Georgia.

“Monty Veazey is a prime example of the leaders we are fortunate to have who are passionate about improving the daily lives of our state’s citizens. His ongoing work helps ensure Georgians in rural areas continue to have access to quality health care.”

A leading voice on health care policy in Georgia for many years, Veazey’s work focuses on protecting access to comprehensive hospital care Georgians in every corner of the state, magazine representatives said in a statement. 

In 1976, Veazey became the youngest member ever elected to the Georgia House of Representatives. He was 22.

“I appreciate Georgia Trend’s recognition because it shines a light on the crucial service that community hospitals provide,” Veazey said. “Over the past two years, hospitals have provided the frontline in the battle against COVID and undoubtedly saved thousands of lives at a time when many health care providers had closed their doors. I’m honored to have my name included on a list with so many distinguished Georgians I admire and in a publication that, like community hospitals, has statewide reach and understands the importance of each county and region.”