Gwinnett Black Women Shaping History: Nicole Love Hendrickson, Lisamarie Bristol and Patsy Austin-Gatson

Black Gwinnett Women Politicians

Nicole Love Hendrickson

In 2020, Nicole Love Hendrickson made history in Gwinnett County and became the first African American chairwoman of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners in Georgia. She leads the Board in setting policies, managing the county’s budget of over $2.5 billion, and ensuring quality services for nearly one million residents.

Chairwoman Hendrickson played a key role in rewriting Gwinnett County’s mission, vision, and values statements to prioritize accountability, transparency, equity, inclusivity, and innovation. She focuses on inclusive transportation, affordable housing, economic growth for small and minority businesses, and improving local government responsiveness.

Lisamarie Bristol

Lisamarie N. Bristol became Gwinnett County Solicitor General in Georgia on January 1, 2023, making her the first Black woman in the position. Under her leadership, the solicitor’s office achieved various goals and streamlined processes to better serve the county. The Solicitor-General’s Office is responsible for prosecuting State misdemeanor crimes in the State Court of Gwinnett County, as well as ordinance violations and traffic citations in Recorder’s Court.

Solicitor General Bristol started her legal career in 2009 after joining the Georgia Bar. She worked as a public defender, handling numerous cases in different courts, and later transitioned to prosecution, successfully prosecuting cases in various district attorney’s offices and the Solicitor-General’s Office.

Patsy Austin-Gatson

Gwinnett County District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson stands tall as a beacon of progress and change. As the first woman and African American to hold the position, she has shattered barriers and transformed the culture of the District Attorney’s Office. With a steadfast commitment to prosecution, justice, and equity, District Attorney Austin-Gatson has spearheaded remarkable initiatives, making a lasting impact on the county she serves.

District Attorney Austin-Gatson has practiced law for 34 years, handling both criminal and civil matters. Her impressive accomplishments and unwavering dedication to the people demonstrate a commitment to bringing about positive, progressive change in Gwinnett.