Charles DeVaney (1954-2007) was a politician, Augusta native, and mayor. Born in downtown Augusta, DeVaney received his B.A. in Political Science from Augusta College in 1974 and his J.D. from Mercer University’s School of Law in 1977. DeVaney began his political career in the early 1980s as a member of the City Council before becoming mayor of Augusta in 1984. His administration focused on downtown revitalization, overseeing projects such as the renovation of the Old Government House, improvements along Broad Street, restoration work at Magnolia Cemetery, and the development of the Augusta Riverwalk. Under his oversight, Augusta also strengthened its global ties by establishing sister city relationships with Biarritz, France and Takarazuka, Japan. DeVaney served as mayor until the city’s consolidation with Richmond County in 1996. After his tenure as mayor, DeVaney received his M.S. in Comparative Politics from the University of London in 2001. He was active in local organizations such as Augusta Tomorrow and the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation until his death in 2007.