By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA – June 19, 2024

In a landmark electoral victory, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has been elected as the Chief Executive Officer of DeKalb County, Georgia, becoming the first African American woman to hold this position in the county’s history. With 100% of precincts reporting, Cochran-Johnson secured 25,608 votes, or 60% of the vote, surpassing her opponent, former commissioner Larry John, who received 17,104 votes, or 40%.

DeKalb County, the third largest in Georgia with a population of 710,000, has seen a historic moment unfold as Cochran-Johnson steps into leadership. She follows in the footsteps of Liane Levitan, the county’s first female CEO who served two terms.

A native of Greenville, Alabama, Cochran-Johnson joined the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners in 2018, representing Super District 7.

Throughout her campaign, Cochran-Johnson emphasized a platform centered on change, accountability, and innovation. Key issues in her agenda included tackling DeKalb’s housing crisis, addressing gun violence, empowering youth, and supporting small businesses. Her victory marks a significant shift towards progressive policies and inclusive leadership in the county.

Cochran-Johnson’s win comes as she prepares to succeed Michael Thurman, who served two terms as CEO of DeKalb County. While the election results are yet to be formally certified by election officials, her decisive lead points to a clear mandate from the electorate for new directions in county governance.

Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, a native of Greenville, Alabama, has been a dedicated resident of DeKalb County, Georgia, for 22 years. She holds a B.S. in Political Science and Criminal Justice, an M.S. in Administration of Criminal Justice from Troy University, and an M.P.A. in Public Administration with a concentration in Economic Development and Grant Writing from Auburn University. Additionally, she has a business certificate from Harvard University.

With over two decades of experience in print media and mass communications, Lorraine is a seasoned grant writer who has secured millions in funding for state and local entities. As a parent, she has served as P.T.A. president for multiple schools, securing over $200,000 for school revitalization and donating $250,000 for COVID-19 relief. She supports initiatives in economic development, education, public safety, and homeownership.

Professionally, Lorraine has held significant roles at Creative Loafing Newspaper, founded Salons Unlimited Magazine, and was a founding member of United Front Media. She also served as General Manager of the Atlanta Daily World Newspaper and Associate Publisher of Who’s Who In Black Atlanta.

Lorraine is married to retired USAF Pilot Lt. Colonel William H. Johnson, III, she is a proud mother, community advocate, and dedicated public servant committed to improving her community and the world through selfless service.

As she assumes office, all eyes are on Cochran-Johnson to deliver on her promises and navigate the challenges facing DeKalb County.