Shannon Cochran (born August 7, 1958, in Greensboro, North Carolina) is an American actress known for her extensive work in film, television, and theater. She graduated summa cum laude from the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music and has a long-standing relationship with the Steppenwolf Theatre Company in Chicago. Cochran has appeared in films such as The Ring (2002), Star Trek: Nemesis (2002), and The Substance of Things Hoped For (2006). On television, she has guest-starred in shows including Grey's Anatomy, The Office, Law & Order: SVU, Without a Trace, Frasier, Gilmore Girls, NYPD Blue, and multiple Star Trek series (The Next Generation and Deep Space Nine). She has received awards such as an Obie Award and a Theatre World Award for her stage performances. Cochran is also involved in teaching acting and remains active in both screen and stage roles.