by John Beagle

Judith A. Gilleland is Middletown’s first female City Manager in the history of the city.

Please comment on being the first Middletown, Ohio woman city manager?

City Manager Gilleland: As far as being a woman CM, well, on one hand its not a big deal, I've been in this field all of my working life - which is over 25 years now.  It is such a big part of my life. 

Like many professions, the work doesn't stop at 5 p.m. it is continuous 24/7/365.  On the other hand, I remember when I started in this profession 25 years ago and I would many times be the only female in the room at a meeting.  It didn't strike me as odd, that is just the way it was. 

Only now when I sit in meetings and there are so many more women in the room, do I realize how far we've come in terms diversifying local government administration.  I don't view my gender as a pro or con.  How we perform our jobs, treat others and how we live our lives is what is important in the long run. 

Prior to Middletown, she served as City Manager of Pickerington, Ohio, Asst. City Manager of Centerville.

Judith has 25 years city administrator experience including city administrative duties in Lebanon, Tipp City and Hamilton, Ohio.

Ms. Gilleland is credentialed as a City Manager through the International City Management Association.

More information on: City Manager Judity Gilleland