Say Hello to Cheryl (Cheri) May, this week’s Face of Braselton & Hoschton!
Cheryl (Cheri) May has called Gwinnett, Hall, and Barrow counties home for nearly four decades. Originally from Michigan, weekends spent at Lake Michigan fostered a love of community and the outdoors that continues to shape Cheri May’s life and service. After attending Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, Cheri May earned an Associate’s Degree in Marketing from the School of Business and completed advanced coursework in Social Casework. This background provided the skills to help families navigate emotional and behavioral challenges—experience that has guided a lifelong commitment to service.
Professionally, Cheri May retired as a Residential Sales Associate with EMC Security, where trust and relationships with local families were at the core of the work. Service roles have included working as a Case Worker with St. Vincent de Paul and volunteering at the Gift of Grace House in Atlanta, which provides a safe haven for women living with AIDS.
In addition, Cheri May served four years on the Gwinnett County Merit Board, ensuring fairness in employee grievances, and is a graduate of the Citizens Academy. They also serve on the Public Facilities Authority for 4 Points Preparatory School, supporting education and community development.
Strong community ties remain central. As a frequent volunteer for Braselton events, Cheri May believes in giving back and building stronger neighborhoods.
Now, Cheri May is running for office to bring experience, compassion, and accountability to public service—focusing on stronger families, transparent government, and a thriving community.
Married for 45 years, 2 children and 2 grandchildren
Q: What do you do for a living and what do you like most about it?
Retired, now I have more time to spend volunteering and getting involved in area projects.
Q: What advice would you want to give or leave with people? Or , If you could go back in time to give yourself some wisdom, what would you say?
You’ll never regret being kind. Going back to give myself some wisdom I would have to say, Trust the process because your struggles are shaping you and making you a stronger person. Also, hold close the people who bring you peace.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
I see myself continuing in a leadership/serving role.
Q: If reading for pleasure, what do you like?
Mystery novels, crime novels
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Croatia to visit my family.
Q: What is the most beautiful place in the world you have already visited?
Ireland
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Dolly Pardon is who I would choose to have lunch with! We would start out with a late luncheon at Local Station with a Craft Cocktail made by my friend Bri. then go to Cotton Calf for lunch followed by a bottle of wine at Cork It listening to live music.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Local Station, Cotton Calf
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
Moved to Buford from Lawrenceville in 2015 then to Hoschton and currently in Braselton. So 10 years in this area
Q: Who, in our community, do you think is happy and positive and would be a great next interview for this project? This person will be your nomination!
Mimi Schlenker, Real Estate with Mimi
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
1904 Building where the Braselton Brothers owned their department store. I also love seeing The Mill when you arrive at the heart of downtown Braselton.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The preservation of the Historic Buildings in Braselton
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
A few of my favorite movies are : Gladiator, Gone with the Wind, Man on Fire, TV shows – Some of my favorite TV shows are Yellowstone, Landman, and The Bear
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I am an artist
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Seeing people overcome a hardship and succeed with their goal.
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Bob Seger
Q: If you were given ONE EXTRA HOUR every day, and you could not use it for sleep, work, or with anyone else, what would you use it for?
I would be still
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Take a hot air balloon ride
Q: Favorite month? Favorite holiday? And the absolute best single day on the calendar?
April is my favorite month. Flowers start to bloom, trees are turning green again. My favorite holiday is Christmas. The absolute best single day on the calendar is New Year’s Day
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Warmth, Love, Memories
