CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson appoints Clare Avory as Director of DeKalb Emergency Management Agency

DECATUR, GA– DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has appointed Dr. Clare Avory as the new Director of DeKalb Emergency Management Agency,a vital step in ensuring public safety and wellness. 

 Avory brings more than two decades of experience in operations, crisis leadership, and emergency preparedness to the role, following a distinguished tenure as Associate Director of Emergency Preparedness at Louisiana State University (LSU).

Avory will lead the DeKalb County Department of Emergency Management’s efforts to prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies, natural and manmade disasters. She will serve as liaison to local, state, and federal agencies to ensure community safety, resilience, and continuity of operations.

“Dr. Avory is known for strategic vision and operational innovation,” said Cochran-Johnson. “As we continue to build a strong and thriving community, the public’s safety and quality of life remain a priority for my administration. Dr. Avery’s leadership will usher in a season of proactive preparedness and effective response.”

At LSU, Avory directed daily operations for the University’s Emergency Operations Center, coordinating efforts among Athletics, Facilities, Environmental Health & Safety, Residential Life, and external agencies. She developed and implemented preparedness and standard operating procedures that were adopted university-wide—initiatives that earned recognition for strengthening institutional resilience and interdepartmental coordination.

 Avory has held multiple leadership positions in law enforcement and emergency services throughout Louisiana, guiding response operations and continuity efforts for nearly two decades. 

“Joining DeKalb County is an incredible opportunity, and my focus will be on strengthening interagency coordination, community engagement, and resilience – ensuring that DeKalb is prepared for any and all challenges that may arise,” said  Avory. 

 Avory holds a Doctor of Management in Homeland Security & Emergency Management from Colorado Technical University, a Master of Science in Emergency Management from Arizona State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Disaster Services & Emergency Management from LSU–Alexandria.