Senator Derek Mallow

Derek Mallow is a Democratic state senator representing Georgia's 2nd Senate District, which encompasses Savannah, Garden City, Port Wentworth, and a portion of Thunderbolt in Chatham County. A native of Savannah, he was born to the late William John Mallow and Ruby Bonds. He was raised by his grandmother after losing his father at age five, an experience that instilled in him values of hard work, dedication, discipline, and commitment.

Mallow's community involvement began early through the Boy Scouts, where he learned the importance of mentorship and civic engagement. He has maintained deep ties to his community through extensive involvement with local organizations and initiatives focused on service and revitalization.

Education

Mallow is a graduate of Jenkins High School in Savannah. He earned degrees in leadership and ministry from Asbury University and later obtained a Master of Public Administration from Savannah State University, along with a graduate certificate in nonprofit organizational leadership.

Political Experience

Mallow was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives for House District 163 in 2020, serving before his election to the State Senate in 2022. He was sworn in to the Georgia Senate on January 9, 2023, and was reelected for a second term, being sworn in on January 13, 2025. The Democratic Caucus appointed him to serve as Democratic Chief Deputy Whip.

In the Senate, he serves on the Committees on Children and Families, Economic Development and Tourism, and State and Local Governmental Operations and Transportation. He also serves as Secretary of the Senate Committee on Ethics.

Outside the legislature, Mallow serves as Executive Director and CEO of East Savannah United, a nonprofit dedicated to community revitalization. He is a board member of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus and the Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce, and maintains active membership in several professional and service organizations including Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity and the 100 Black Men of Savannah.