DeKalb County History Maker: CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson Lorraine Cochran-Johnson for DeKalb CEO

In 2024, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson made history as the first Black woman elected CEO of DeKalb County, earning majority support across nearly every voting precinct. Her victory marked a powerful milestone in DeKalb’s leadership and reflected the community’s confidence in her vision for progress, accountability, and opportunity for all.

A longtime DeKalb County resident, Cochran-Johnson brings more than two decades of experience in communications, economic development, and public service to her role as County CEO. She holds degrees from Troy University and Auburn University, attended John Marshall Law School, and earned a business certificate from Harvard University focused on delivering equitable and efficient public services.

Before entering public office, Cochran-Johnson built a successful career in media and entrepreneurship, including leadership roles with Creative Loafing, Atlanta Daily World, and Real Times Media, and founding Salons Unlimited Magazine, which expanded nationally before being sold in 2010.

Elected Commissioner for Super District 7 in 2018, she led major initiatives in public safety, housing, and infrastructure, including ordinances requiring video surveillance at gas stations and regulating boxed discount stores. She also founded EMBARC Youth Farm, a $10 million urban agriculture project connecting youth and community to healthy living and entrepreneurship. As Chair of Public Works and Infrastructure, she oversaw more than $1.4 billion in revenue allocations and implemented contract audits that saved DeKalb taxpayers over $92 million.

A champion for education and youth, Cochran-Johnson has donated more than $1 million to schools and youth programs and provided $250,000 in COVID relief to protect students and educators. Her leadership has earned numerous honors, including Elected Official of the Year by the American Public Works Association and a Lifetime Achievement Award presented during the administration of Joe Biden.

Her career reflects a lifelong commitment to service, accountability, and building opportunity for all.