15.10 Levin Graduates Lead: Former Cleveland Mayor Jane Campbell

Jane Campbell (Democrat), Cleveland’s first female mayor, served from 2002 to 2006 and is an alumna of the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University. Her tenure as mayor was marked by her focus on economic revitalization and public safety, two critical issues for the city at the time. Campbell’s leadership was instrumental in initiating several key projects that aimed to improve the quality of life for Cleveland residents and boost the local economy.

One of Campbell’s notable accomplishments was the establishment of the Cleveland Industrial Retention Initiative (CIRI). This program aimed to support and retain local businesses, recognizing the vital role they play in the city’s economic stability. By providing resources and assistance to existing businesses, CIRI helped to safeguard jobs and foster a more robust industrial sector in Cleveland. This initiative demonstrated Campbell’s proactive approach to economic development and her commitment to sustaining the city’s industrial base.

Additionally, Campbell played a pivotal role in securing federal funding for the Euclid Corridor Transportation Project, a major thoroughfare in Cleveland. This ambitious project aimed to transform Cleveland’s Euclid Avenue by improving public transit and stimulating economic development along the corridor. The project included the creation of a bus rapid transit system, which enhanced accessibility and connectivity for residents. This initiative not only improved public transportation but also spurred investment and development in the area, contributing to the revitalization of one of Cleveland’s key thoroughfares.

Jane Campbell’s tenure as mayor was characterized by her strategic vision and dedication to addressing the city’s challenges. Her efforts in economic revitalization and public transit development left a lasting impact on Cleveland, showcasing her leadership and commitment to public service. As an alumna of the Levin College of Urban Affairs, her accomplishments reflect the college’s mission of preparing leaders who drive positive change in their communities. Ironically, she was defeated by another Levin College CSU alumnus, Frank Jackson, who would go on to serve four terms as mayor.