On June 6, 2025, more than 1,500 employees gathered in person at New Life Church in Decatur, and over 2,000 more joined via livestream, for DeKalb County’s first ever Employee of the State event under the leadership of CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.
From the opening remarks by Chief of Staff Dr. G. Leah Davis to the rousing department roll call led by Chief Operating Officer Zach Williams, the energy was high and the pride was real. Teams raised their signs and voices to represent their departments turning the moment into a lively celebration of the people who keep DeKalb running.
Chief of Intergovernmental Affairs Martha Revelo recognized the elected officials in attendance, and Chief Development Officer Jacob Vallo introduced the debut of the Mission Possible Cabinet Video, which received an enthusiastic response from the crowd.
CEO Cochran-Johnson then delivered a heartfelt keynote address, sharing her bold vision for a reimagined DeKalb—centered on purpose, service, and transformation. She followed with a candid fireside chat alongside Chief Communications Officer Dionna Smith, responding to questions submitted directly by employees. From leadership transparency to workforce development, her message was clear: this is only the beginning.
As announced during the event, CEO Cochran-Johnson will be launching a Countywide Employee Tour, visiting teams to hear directly from the workforce that powers our county.
Watch the recap video below:
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