Lorraine Cochran-Johnson for DeKalb CEO

Yesterday, we kicked off DeKalb County’s Summer Youth Employment Program, creating opportunities for young people to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and take important steps toward their future careers.

Thank you to the WorkSource DeKalb team for the hard work and dedication that made this program possible. An opportunity like this can help shape a student’s future, opening doors to new skills, new experiences, and new possibilities.

Investing in our youth is investing in DeKalb’s future.

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to visit Emory Hillandale Hospital and learn more about how they are leveraging technology to enhance patient care and strengthen healthcare delivery in our community.

Thank you to Jen Schuck, CEO of Emory Hillandale Hospital, Emory Decatur Hospital, and Emory Long-Term Acute Care Hospital, and the entire Emory team for your commitment to innovation and excellence.

I look forward to continued partnerships that expand access to quality healthcare and improve outcomes for the residents of DeKalb County.

Yesterday evening, DeKalb County hosted our 1st Quarter Town Hall, bringing together executive leadership, department leaders, and residents from across the county for an important conversation about the progress, priorities, and future of DeKalb County.

Transparency and community engagement remain important to me because residents deserve to hear directly from their government, ask questions, and stay informed about the work happening in their communities.

Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in the conversation. If you missed the 1st Quarter Town Hall, you can catch the recap in this week’s newsletter.

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This morning, I had the honor of joining Jolly Elementary School to celebrate the 5th Grade Class of 2026 during their Promotional Program.

Watching these students walk across the stage with pride, excitement, and big dreams for the future was a reminder of just how bright the next generation truly is. Every lesson learned, every challenge overcome, and every moment of growth has prepared them for this next chapter.

I am grateful to have been part of such an important moment for these students and their families.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. DeKalb County is proud of you.

Today in South DeKalb, I joined volunteers, organizers, and community leaders for the opening of Senator Jon Ossoff’s South DeKalb field office.

Senator Ossoff has built his work around public service, accountability, and staying connected to people across Georgia.

Opening this office in South DeKalb matters because it creates a stronger connection to the community and reinforces the importance of civic engagement and making our voices heard.

I want to congratulate Keisha Lance Bottoms on becoming the Democratic nominee for Governor of Georgia and proudly share my support as we look ahead to November.

DeKalb, we are one day away from the May 2026 Primary.

Tomorrow, Tuesday, May 19, you have the opportunity to make your voice heard and help shape the future of our county, our state, and our communities. Voting is more than a right; it is a responsibility we carry together.

Make your plan tonight. Know your polling location. Bring your ID. And show up ready to be counted.
Polls open 7 AM – 7 PM

🌐 Visit www.dekalbvotes.com for your polling location and sample ballot.

It’s almost time! Tune in to our 2026 State of the County at 12 pm.

The 2026 State of the County is happening in 3 HOURS.

🎙️Join CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson today at 12 PM for a look at where DeKalb stands and where we're headed.

📺 Watch live: https://dekalbcountyga.gov/departments/dctv, share with a neighbor, and be part of the conversation shaping our county's next chapter.