Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s journey from a young girl raised by a village in Butler County, Alabama, to becoming the CEO-Elect of DeKalb County, Georgia, is one of resilience, vision, and unwavering dedication. Her life story exemplifies what it means to lead with both strength and compassion, always focusing on creating opportunities, uplifting those around her, and leaving behind a legacy that serves as a beacon for future generations.
At the heart of Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s vision is a belief that transcends mere ambition: the conviction that we are greater than our circumstances. This belief is not just a personal mantra but a guiding principle that drives her as she prepares to step into the role of CEO of DeKalb County. “My vision for the future is driven by a utopian belief that we are greater than our circumstances,” she shares. She is deeply committed to the idea that with the right leadership and care, the communities she serves can achieve an ideal state of safety, prosperity, and unity.
As a spiritual person, Cochran-Johnson draws on biblical teachings to sustain her resolve, emphasizing the importance of clarity, purpose, and unwavering faith. Her approach is rooted in the belief that “he who controls the mind controls the man,” a philosophy that has fueled her to take calculated risks and follow through with determination. In her view, leadership is about making decisions and doing the work necessary to achieve positive outcomes. This mindset shapes her vision for DeKalb County, focusing first and foremost on the people who call it home. By surrounding herself with competent, dedicated individuals and fostering an environment of collaboration and resource access, she aims to build safe, economically progressive communities.
Cochran-Johnson’s commitment to mentoring the next generation is deeply influenced by her upbringing. Raised by a single mother, with the guiding hands of her grandfather and father, she learned the value of hard work, resilience, and community support from an early age. Her grandfather, an innovative figure who was the first African American in Butler County to run a commercial cotton gin and mass-produce goods, taught her accounting and the importance of entrepreneurship. Her mother, a no-nonsense leader who managed their family and community, and her father, along with her uncles who became self-made millionaires, taught her that extraordinary success is achievable without a predetermined blueprint.
In her role as a mentor, Cochran-Johnson has extended these lessons far beyond her family. She has been a PTA president at three different schools, a Parental Engagement Liaison, and a Girl Scout Troop Leader, demonstrating her dedication to youth development. For decades, she has opened her home and heart to children, creating a nurturing space for young people to learn and grow. This dedication extends to her work as an elected official; she has funded programs supporting reading, enrichment, and mentorship through partnerships with organizations such as the 100 Black Men of DeKalb, the DeKalb County School System, AARP, United Way, and the Police Athletic League. By fostering these initiatives, she pays forward the countless investments made in her by others and continues to empower the next generation.
Reflecting on her career, Cochran-Johnson hopes to leave behind a legacy defined by service, care, and tangible progress. She views every phase of her journey as a new chapter, shaped by the opportunities she has been given and her dedication to using them wisely. “What we do with the opportunities we are given is completely up to us,” she states. As the first African American woman to lead DeKalb County, she aspires not just to break barriers but to set a new standard for what it means to be an effective leader.
Her commitment is not only to advance policies but to embody a leadership style rooted in empathy. “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” she notes, underscoring her belief that leadership should prioritize the well-being of those being served. Cochran-Johnson’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to community protection and improvement, emphasizing that those in positions of power should use their influence to uplift others and create opportunities for success.
Cochran-Johnson’s evolution as a leader and person has been marked by adaptability and a commitment to growth. Throughout her career, she has embraced every relationship and experience as an essential part of her journey. Transitioning from corporate America to public service was a pivotal moment, revealing the importance of understanding human capacity and aligning expectations realistically. “Not all people are capable of performing at the same level, and we must be realistic about what we expect from those around us,” she reflects.
Her experiences have taught her to protect her inner circle and guard her energy. Recognizing that every decision has consequences, she has learned to value both solitude and the company of trusted advisors. “Sometimes God must separate you to use you,” she says, explaining her approach to remaining focused and intentional. Cochran-Johnson sees life as a game with a ticking clock, pushing herself to approach each day with the urgency and dedication required to make meaningful strides.
As a mother of a 24-year-old daughter, Cochran-Johnson understands the importance of preparing young people for the future. Her advice is clear: the decisions made today will shape tomorrow. “Understand your importance and learn to overcome challenges,” she urges. Emphasizing the significance of resilience, she encourages young people to pursue their goals, stay true to their values, and seek out mentors when necessary. “Don’t major in the minors and be cautious of those with whom you associate—your network determines your net worth.”
Cochran-Johnson’s advice also underscores the need for proactive use of available resources, technology, and opportunities. She believes that the next generation has the potential to exceed the achievements of those who came before them if they approach life with purpose and determination.
Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s work has had a profound impact on the Atlanta community and beyond. Her commitment to fiscal responsibility has led to significant achievements, including her tenure as the Chair of Public Works and Infrastructure (PWI), where she mandated audits of contracts over $3 million, saving taxpayers $92 million. She also founded HOPE at Stonecrest, a partnership with Operation HOPE that has provided over $22 million in home loan financing and down-payment assistance.
Her legislative efforts, such as the Video Surveillance System Ordinance and the Boxed Store Ordinance, have set new standards for safety and economic development, not only in DeKalb County but in several other states. These policies demonstrate her focus on practical, community-centered solutions that ensure public safety and foster economic opportunity.
Cochran-Johnson’s vision for DeKalb County and the broader Metro Atlanta area is clear: create a future where equitable opportunities are available for all, where homeownership is accessible, and where communities are safe and thriving. “Home ownership should not be a dream deferred,” she states, highlighting the critical need for policies that bridge economic divides and promote sustainable growth.
In Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, the people of DeKalb County have a leader who is committed to more than just governance; she is dedicated to service, mentorship, and lasting positive change. Her legacy is one of courage, compassion, and an unyielding belief that when leaders care deeply for their communities, real transformation can occur.
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