Jerica Richardson is an engineer, author of "Influence," and a proven community leader with deep roots in the region. A graduate of the Georgia Institute of Technology, she applied her problem-solving skills to both her engineering career and her commitment to public service. Raised in a modest family with a father who is a teacher/coach and a grandmother and aunt who are also teachers, Jerica learned the value of public service and the importance of education. Her mother worked for years as a receptionist before becoming an office manager, instilling in Jerica a strong work ethic. 

Growing up with limited financial resources and experiencing the displacement of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Jerica developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by many families. As the youngest and first Black commissioner elected in her portion of Cobb County, she has a track record of breaking barriers and advocating for her constituents. Her dedication was tested when unprecedented redistricting efforts forced her from the first home she purchased for her young family with partner, Daniel Santos, within the community she's lived in for nearly 20 years, sparking a two-year fight to defend democratic principles and the voices of the community that rallied behind her. Now a proud mother to a 6-month-old, she also launched an impactful internship program during her tenure, empowering nearly 100 young leaders from diverse backgrounds who have gone on to assume positions of influence throughout the county.