In 1927, the Carl Vinson Institute of Government opened its doors to "provide a forum to study international, national, state, and local affairs and to make recommendations for improved governance." Then called the Institute of Public Affairs, the Institute was a unique organization that combined research, technical assistance, training, and publications. It was established at the University of Georgia at a time when the university had only 1,500 students.

The final name change occurred in 1983, when the Institute was renamed in honour of Georgian Carl Vinson, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives for more than 50 years.

For more than 85 years, the Institute of Government has worked with public officials throughout Georgia and around the world to improve governance and people's lives. From Georgia's early days as a largely agrarian state with a modest population to its modern-day status as a national and international force in business, industry, and politics with a population of almost 10 million, the Institute has helped government leaders navigate change and forge strong directions for a better Georgia.