Cobb County is in mourning following the death of its revered former County Manager David Hankerson who passed away at the age of 77 after a longstanding illness. According to a statement from the county, Hankerson, who first joined the county workforce in 1984 and took the helm as County Manager in 1993, was a pivotal figure in Cobb County's evolution from a mixed suburban/rural area to the bustling metropolitan county it is today.
Hankerson, in his 24-year tenure, left an indelible mark on the county's administration and growth. Dr. Jackie McMorris, the current County Manager who was brought to Cobb by Hankerson in 2013, said, "But for Mr. Hankerson, I would not be where I am today," as obtained by Cobb County Communications. She went on to underline the core values he instilled in the county which include integrity and a solid work ethic. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid also lauded Hankerson's unmatched leadership and guidance during her tenure as a district commissioner.
Hankerson, who was a Leadership Cobb Alumnus and served on numerous civic and professional boards, was recognized with multiple awards throughout his career for his dedication and service. Among those, as per the county's news release, were the Justice Robert Benham Award for leadership and commitment to equality, and the Delta Upsilon Boule Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity Founder’s Day Excellence in Government Award. He was a loyal member of the community, serving on The Walker School Board of Directors and The Strand Board of Directors and was appointed to the Environmental Advisory Council by Governor Perdue in 2006.
His educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from Fort Valley State College and a Juris Doctorate from the Woodrow Wilson College of Law. Prior to his career in public service, Hankerson served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps from 1967 to 1970, headquartered in Seoul, Korea. After which, becoming a District Conservationist for the United States Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service. In a proud moment for the county, Hankerson made his last appearance before the Board of Commissioners in September 2022 to celebrate the county’s triple AAA rating for the 25th year, a goal that he had championed.
Colleagues and constituents remember Hankerson not just as a dynamic leader but also as a great mentor, husband, father, son, and friend. District 3 Commissioner JoAnn K. Birrell highlighted his management style and leadership, saying, "Today, we lost a gentle giant and exemplary leader of this county," a sentiment shared by the entire Cobb community as they commemorate the life of a man who shaped much of its present-day successes. The community's thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time are with his family, according to Birrell's statement.
