Dean Jill Gordon, Ph.D, Named to Cleveland Leadership Class of 2027

Dr. Jill Gordon, Dean of the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education has been named to the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2027. 

Since its founding in 1978, Leadership Cleveland has brought together accomplished leaders from diverse sectors and backgrounds to deepen their understanding of the region's opportunities and challenges, strengthen cross-sector relationships and increase their capacity to create meaningful community impact, according to the organization's website. 

“I feel honored, grateful, and energized. Leadership Cleveland represents a remarkable network of people who care deeply about our region, and I’m excited to learn from their experiences while building relationships with fellow leaders,” said Gordon. “As someone who has returned to Cleveland after spending many years elsewhere, I see this as an incredible opportunity to reconnect with the community and contribute to its future.” 

The Class of 2027 will kick things off in September with a two-day retreat at Sawmill Creek Resort, followed by nine monthly sessions held at locations across the region. Each session focuses on a key topic, including economic development, education and quality of life, and features business and community leaders who lead discussions designed to deepen understanding, foster cross-sector collaboration and strengthen Greater Cleveland. 

“What excites me most about Leadership Cleveland is not what I bring to the class, but what I will learn from it. I try to approach each day with curiosity by asking questions, listening carefully, and remaining open to new perspectives,” said Gordon. “I see Leadership Cleveland as an opportunity to deepen my understanding of the region, learn from fellow leaders, and explore how we can work together to build a stronger future for Cleveland and its residents.” 

Upon completion, participants will join Cleveland Leadership Center's network of more than 11,000 alumni, expanding their opportunities to lead, serve and create lasting impact across Greater Cleveland. 

Gordon plans to apply what she learned through the program to help move CSU forward.

“My goal is to advance the vision of Levin Forward, our new strategic plan for the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education,” Gordon said. “At its core, Levin Forward is about preparing students to make meaningful contributions to their communities while strengthening the connections between the university and the region we serve.” 

She said CSU has played an important role in her growth by providing opportunities to learn and lead during a period of significant change. 

“Navigating both challenges and opportunities have strengthened my belief that the best solutions emerge through collaboration and a willingness to challenge conventional thinking and embrace new approaches,” she said. “Through that experience, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the power of relationships, adaptability, and a shared commitment to creating positive outcomes for students and the community.” 

Looking ahead, Gordon said she is most excited about what CSU students will gain from her participation in this year's cohort. 

“I’m looking forward to making connections that can strengthen opportunities for our students,” she said. “Leadership Cleveland brings together leaders from across sectors, and those relationships can help create new pathways for experiential learning, community engagement, and career opportunities that enhance the student experience. Being part of a group so committed to the region’s success is both a privilege and an inspiration.” 

She added: 

“Ultimately, my goal is to continue to advance Levin College and CSU become even more powerful catalysts for opportunity, civic engagement, and positive change throughout Northeast Ohio.”