After more than three decades of service to the State of Georgia and over a decade at South Georgia Technical College, Dr. Deo Michelle Cochran-Sherrod is preparing for retirement. A lifelong educator, counselor, and advocate for students, she leaves behind a legacy rooted in compassion, guidance, and unwavering support.
An Americus native and graduate of Americus High School, Cochran-Sherrod always had a passion for learning and service. She earned her undergraduate degree in psychology from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2007, followed by a master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Troy University. She also holds a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology, a personal goal that underscored her lifelong dedication to education and personal growth.
Cochran-Sherrod joined SGTC in 2013 and has served in numerous roles including Career Advisor, Retention and Coaching Specialist, Testing Coordinator, and Orientation Team Director. Her extensive background in psychology and technology found a perfect intersection in the work she performed at the college. Whether calming a student’s nerves before an entrance exam or offering life advice during a difficult time, Cochran-Sherrod brought empathy and insight to every conversation.
“I’ve always had a passion for helping students,” she said. “My background in psychology helped me understand and connect with them on a deeper level, especially when they were facing anxiety or personal struggles. We touch lives every day.”
Her impact extended beyond the classroom. As a Testing Coordinator, she was often one of the first people students met when entering SGTC. “I got to help them feel welcome, calm their nerves, and remind them not to give up. Whether it takes one try or three, just keep going.”
Cochran-Sherrod has worked under several SGTC presidents, including Jon Johnson, Sparky Reeves, and Dr. John Watford. She credits the college’s leadership, staff, and faculty with creating a supportive and collaborative environment. “SGTC is a wonderful place to work,” she said. “Everyone here goes the extra mile for the students.”
Her belief in the value of technical education is more than professional—it’s personal. All of her children attended SGTC at some point, gaining technical skills that helped launch or enhance their careers. “Even those who already had degrees found their way back here,” she said. “The hands-on training gave them what they needed to succeed in the workforce.”
In retirement, Cochran-Sherrod plans to stay active by teaching part-time, pursuing creative interests like painting and drawing, and continuing her service through church and community work. “I’m not ready to stop giving,” she said. “I just want to do it in new ways.”
She views this next chapter as an opportunity to embrace everything she hasn’t had time for during her working years. “I’ve given a lot to the world, and now it’s time to enjoy life, help others, and spend time with my family.”
As she looks back on her career, Cochran-Sherrod is filled with gratitude—for her students, her colleagues, and the institution that became her second home. “I’m blessed to have been part of SGTC,” she said. “It’s not just a job—it’s a family.”