Celebrating 28 Days of Black Excellence. Past and Present: Rose Strong

Throughout the month of February, The Courier Eco Latino will honor Black History Month by spotlighting one local African American leader—past or present—each day. The series will feature trailblazers, educators, entrepreneurs, artists, advocates, and unsung heroes whose contributions have helped shape the soul, strength, and future of our community.

These are stories that may not always make headlines, but make a difference every day. From classrooms to boardrooms, from pulpits to protest lines, from small businesses to grassroots movements, each honoree reflects resilience, leadership, and service rooted right here at home.

More than a celebration, this series serves as a reminder that Black history is local, living, and still being written. Join us each day as we honor the people whose legacy continues to move our community forward.

Rose Strong broke barriers in 1984 when she became the first Black woman elected to the Columbus City Council, launching a public service career that spanned local and federal government.

Strong campaigned on a platform focused on strengthening basic city services, emphasizing the everyday needs of neighborhoods and families across Columbus. Her election marked a milestone in the city’s political history and expanded representation on the council at a pivotal moment for local governance.

After moving to Columbus in 1971 with her husband, an Army captain, Strong quickly became active in civic and professional life. She served as an assistant planner with the Comprehensive Employment Training Program (CETA), working on workforce development initiatives, and later as an instructor in the PREP program at Fort Benning. Her background in planning, education and community engagement informed her approach to public service.

Strong was also deeply involved in local politics and community affairs prior to holding office. She served as publicity chairman for Robert Wright’s successful campaign for the Columbus City Council and organized a feeding program for people experiencing homelessness, reflecting her long-standing commitment to service beyond elected office.

Following one term on the City Council, Strong’s leadership and experience earned national recognition. In 1989, she received a presidential appointment from George H. W. Bush to serve as Deputy Director for Intergovernmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C. The appointment made her the first person from Columbus to hold that position.

Strong’s career stands as a testament to the impact of public service rooted in community engagement. Her legacy includes breaking racial and gender barriers locally while representing Columbus on the national stage, opening doors for future generations of leaders.