Georgia Trend, the only statewide business print publication in the market addressing Georgia business, politics and economic development since 1985, has named Dougherty County Chairman, Christopher Cohilas, among their esteemed list of the 100 Most Influential Georgians Shaping the State. Chairman Cohilas’ leadership in Dougherty County following the tornadoes in January 2017 brought media attention and federal dollars to help with the recovery of the area.

In addition to serving as Chairman of the Dougherty County Commission, he is an attorney specializing in complex litigation and was recently appointed by Governor Deal to serve on the Georgia Public Defender Council. Chairman Cohilas previously served as Dougherty County Chief Assistant District Attorney, and was a founding member of the Lily Pad, a non-profit organization that assists victims of sexual assault and child abuse.

“Coming out of an extraordinary year--one that I will never forget, I am very humbled and honored to receive this recognition, and look forward to what is to come in 2018, ” states Chairman Cohilas. “I am always proud to fight for the citizens of Dougherty County, and will continue to seek the significant investment that my community needs and deserves.”

Celebrating 20 years of honoring the state’s leading politicians, CEOs, college presidents, Georgia Trend’s list of the 100 Most Influential Georgians includes men and women who exhibit the strength of character necessary to inspire, challenge, lead – and influence those in the state of Georgia. Some work behind the scenes and some are recognized in every corner of the Peach State. However, each of the 100 people chosen has an enormous impact on the daily lives of Georgians.

Chairman Cohilas is a graduate of Georgia State University College of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor Degree. He currently serves as a partner in the Watson Spence LLC law firm, based in Albany, Georgia.