Meet the Other Mayors: Evelyn Wynn-Dixon, Riverdale

On her achievements in office and upholding promises
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Evelyn Wynn-Dixon was once so destitute and depressed she toed up to a downtown bridge with every intention of jumping. Instead, the Peoplestown native eventually earned a doctorate in public health and had a fruitful career at Grady Memorial Hospital. The spirited 66-year-old grandmother of seven recently won her third term as mayor of the Clayton County city of 16,500. The position pays $810 a month after taxes.

The bachelorette Baby, I’ve been single for 20 years. I’m like, “Lord, let my boy come out of them woods now!”

Achievements in office We’ve got a new city hall, multicultural center, water park, amphitheater, park. We’ve got five businesses moving in.

On upholding promises When I got off welfare and got my doctorate, I made a vow to God that I’ll make my life a magnificent obsession in helping others.

Choosing life All my grandchildren tell me, “Nana, you are our inspiration.” I look around and, dear God, what all I would have missed.

This article originally appeared in our February 2016 issue.

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