Quick Facts
- Date: May 24, 1949
- Location: Memphis, Tennessee
- Key figure: Stephen Ira “Steve” Cohen
- Education: B.A., Vanderbilt University (1971); J.D., University of Memphis (1973)
- Public service: Shelby County Commissioner (1978–1980); Tennessee State Senate (1982–2006); U.S. House, TN-9 (2007–present)
- Notable initiative: Led the effort to create the Tennessee Education Lottery, which funds HOPE scholarships (launched 2004)
The Story
On May 24, 1949, Steve Cohen was born in Memphis—an origin point for one of the longest-running public service careers tied to the 901. After earning a B.A. from Vanderbilt in 1971 and a J.D. from the University of Memphis in 1973, Cohen served as a legal advisor to the Memphis Police Department before entering elected office. He won a seat on the Shelby County Commission (1978–1980), then represented Memphis in the Tennessee State Senate for 24 years. In 2006, voters sent him to Congress to represent Tennessee’s 9th District, the Memphis-based seat he has held since January 3, 2007.
Throughout those roles, Cohen’s work intersected with Memphis history and daily life. As a state senator, he led the multi-year push to authorize a state lottery and dedicate proceeds to college scholarships—what became the Tennessee Education Lottery and the HOPE program, benefiting students across the state, including many from Memphis neighborhoods near Beale Street and beyond. His federal service has kept a consistent focus on constituent services and legislative priorities affecting the Bluff City.
Legacy
Cohen’s birthday is a reminder that Memphis produces leaders who shape the city and the state. From county government to Capitol Hill, his trajectory illustrates how sustained civic work can translate into scholarships, services, and representation for the 901. The Tennessee Education Lottery—approved by voters in 2002 and launched in 2004—continues to channel education dollars to Tennesseans, a legacy with ongoing impact for Memphis families pursuing college and technical credentials. That through-line from a Memphis birth to decades of public service is part of the broader tapestry of Memphis history.
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