State Senator Kenya Wicks, a Life Member (LM) of Command Sergeant Major (CSM) A.C. Cotton VFW Post 12209 at Ft. Cavazos in Killeen, Texas, represents a shining example of leadership and service. On January 13th, 2025, she was officially sworn into the Georgia State Senate, marking a historic and proud day for the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Departments of Georgia and Texas.
Now representing Georgia’s 34th District, encompassing sections of Clayton and Fayette counties, Senator Wicks expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve under the Gold Dome. “It is an honor to serve the citizens of Georgia. I remain deeply committed to representing and championing the needs of my district,” she stated. In addition to her legislative role, Wicks has been appointed Deputy Minority Whip and will serve on several key Senate committees, including Science & Technology, Urban Affairs, Veterans, Military & Homeland Security, Public Safety, and Government Oversight.
Senator Wicks’s impressive background spans over 30 years of military service. She enlisted in the United States Army, rapidly rising through the enlisted ranks before earning her commission as an officer in 2008 through Officer Candidate School (OCS). She retired honorably as a Major, bringing with her a wealth of leadership experience. Her deep ties to the veteran community continue through her active membership in the VFW and her leadership in VFW Post 12209.
Following her military retirement, Wicks transitioned into public service, serving as Chief of Staff for former Senator Valencia Seay. She further distinguished herself in civic engagement by Vice Chairing the Fayette County Democratic Committee, working with the Fayette Democratic Women’s Organization, volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), and contributing to Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Senator Wicks has made it clear that her mission is to fight for the well-being of all her constituents. Whether advocating for veterans, supporting small businesses, or championing educational opportunities for students, she is determined to make a difference. “That’s why I’ve asked to serve on key committees, including Veterans Affairs, Economic Development, and Public Safety. These are areas where critical decisions are made, and I want to be in the rooms where they happen because I know how much they impact our daily lives,” she emphasized.
This special occasion was made even more meaningful by the presence of prominent VFW leaders, including National Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt; VFW State Commander of Georgia, Joe Couch; Georgia VFW Chief of Staff, Wayne Collins; Georgia VFW State Judge Advocate, Sherrod N. Conyers; VFW National Legislative Committee Vice Chairman, Tony Dobbins; past VFW State Commander of Texas, Lynn Toomer; and CSM A.C. Cotton VFW Post 12209 Commander, Willie Keller. “Once a Soldier, always a Soldier, and the VFW never stops supporting Soldiers,” noted Keller during the ceremony.
Senator Wicks’s remarkable journey—from soldier to community leader and now state senator—exemplifies her enduring commitment to service and her passion for representing those who serve.
