After over four years as part of the Perry Wellness Center family, Noah Cochran has departed the center in order to continue his education. The staff leader and all-around “solution guy” is headed to the University of West Georgia in Carrollton.

“My time at Perry Wellness Center has been good and a learning experience for me,” Noah recently said. “The needs of citizens with mental illness and substance abuse increase each day. We must all work to become aware of these needs. I tried to listen and partner with these peers to plan a solution best for the client.”

Noah is now on a mission to broaden the scope of his ability to help others. After completing his masters degree, he plans to obtain his doctoral degree and continue to work professionally in the mental health field.

At a final peer party for the young staffer, Stuart Perry reflected on the upcoming change, saying, “We will all miss Noah. We all know and appreciate his help here at Perry Wellness Center. Pam and I are excited about his plans to better himself and one day to become Dr. Cochran. This day is exciting, and I hope Noah will return to Perry Wellness Center. I would be happy to call him ‘Dr. Cochran.’”

During the final gathering with Noah, peers offered comments and accolades on their time with the dedicated mental health advocate. While some of the group sat quietly, others offered words of support and praise, including these comments from one peer: “Noah and I have had our times of disagreement and conflict, but Noah has always found a way to help me and others who have seemed to conflict his days. We all love and will miss Noah.”

It appears the feelings are mutual. Noah reflected on what he is leaving as he moves forward with a new phase in his life: “I try to absorb all of the good times and conflicts that have come into my life. I am sure that I will miss writing our daily reports, but mostly I will miss the morning sessions of current events and dialogue with my friends.” He concluded with a smile, “I will see you all again.”

Best wishes, Noah, for your educational and professional development. You will be missed!

In the photo above, Amanda and Stuart Perry join Noah Cochran at a table filled with goodies, as they share memories of good times together at Perry Wellness Center.