Dr. LaRhonda McLemore-Cockrell epitomizes a steadfast commitment to service, drawing inspiration from her own transformative journey. Her personal mission is to serve those she once was, embodying the belief that within every challenge lies a lesson, and within every adversity, an opportunity for growth—an ethos deeply rooted in her perspective. With a multifaceted professional background, Dr. LaRhonda is an accomplished author, licensed school counselor, consultant, nonprofit founder, lightworker, and speaker. Her expertise includes roles as a former college and career coordinator and coach for the Clarksville-Montgomery Public School System and Metro Nashville Public Schools, specializing in postsecondary planning for high school seniors. As a subject matter expert in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, EQ-i 2.0/EQi 360, college and career readiness, and professional school counseling, she imparts her knowledge through workshops, individual coaching, small groups and consulting for external organizations and private entities. Dr. LaRhonda is a certified Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging instructor, certified EQ-i 2.0 and EQ 360 Coach, and licensed Professional School Counselor. Her God-given strength, honed through overcoming formidable challenges, includes assuming custody of her younger siblings at the age of nineteen and losing her son, Lorenzo, at 38 weeks and two days. She not only raised and cared for her siblings but also navigated personal hardships with grace and determination. ​A distinguished alumna of Tennessee State University and Trevecca Nazarene University, Dr. LaRhonda holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Nonprofit Management and Leadership. She later earned a Master’s in Professional School Counseling and a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Professional Practices. Her dissertation, "Teacher Expectations and Perceptions of the School Counselor's Role," underscores her dedication to advancing the school counseling field. Dr. LaRhonda's contributions extend to various publications, where her insights enrich discussions on topics ranging from the experiences of Black women to the effectiveness of group counseling among children of parents with mental illness. Recognized for her impactful work, Dr. LaRhonda has served as a keynote speaker and commencement speaker at numerous events and has received accolades such as the "Step It Up Award" and the prestigious "40 Under 40 Award" in 2021. Her dedication to public education and commitment to empowering women and youth exemplify her stoicism. Dr. LaRhonda is the mother of three beautiful children—Lydia, Lorenzo (a cherished memory), and Rubin Jr. Undeterred by personal challenges, Dr. LaRhonda established a nonprofit, Our Birthing Stories, to honor her late son, Lorenzo. Additionally, she is creating a platform for families to openly share their pregnancy loss and receive financial support, community and resources—a testament to her unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Beyond her professional pursuits, Dr. LaRhonda finds solace in exploring diverse cultures and cuisines through travel, writing, enjoying music and dancing, romance and comedy movies, and relishing outdoor activities such as hiking and walking. Her journey underscores a profound belief: despite her upbringing and circumstances, she did not allow her past to define or discourage her. Dr. LaRhonda views her earlier seasons as necessary preparation for the fulfilling life she now embraces, and she remains resolute in her dedication to empowering women and youth to persevere and envision beyond their immediate circumstances.