Media contact:
Mary Louise Madigan: (216) 698-2521; mlmadigan@cuyahogacounty.us

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – County Executive Chris Ronayne announced today that Debbie Berry will serve as the County’s first Deputy Chief of Integrated Development, and Kelly Woodard will be nominated to serve as the next Director of Communications.

As Deputy Chief of Integrated Development, Ms. Berry will be responsible for determining the County’s vision for long-term integrated development, housing, mobility, transportation and public works strategies to invigorate the region.

Ms. Berry currently serves as Greater Cleveland Partnership’s (GCP) Senior Vice President of Major Projects & Real Estate Development. In this role, she is responsible for driving major civic development initiatives throughout the region, including the lakefront, riverfront, and downtown redevelopment. Prior to her time at GCP, Ms. Berry served as Vice President of Community Development for University Circle Inc. She also served as the Lakefront Plan Manager for the City of Cleveland, where she managed the Waterfront District Plan.

Ms. Berry holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Purdue University and a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a registered professional engineer in Ohio.

“As we emerge from the pandemic, we have to focus on infrastructure development and economic growth that creates jobs and opportunities for our residents,” said County Executive Chris Ronayne. “With experience in engineering, community development, and regional economic growth, Debbie understands how all facets of development can work together to build a stronger, more economically resilient community.”

If confirmed, Kelly Woodard will serve as the County’s next Director of Communications. Ms. Woodard will succeed Mary Louise Madigan, who will remain in a leadership role with the administration.

Ms. Woodard currently serves as the Director of Marketing at Cleveland Public Library (CPL), where she oversees all marketing and communications efforts to promote the library’s mission. Prior to her time at CPL, Ms. Woodard held leadership roles in broadcast news for cities including Dallas, New York City, Hartford, Connecticut, Richmond, Virginia and Cleveland. She has experience in public relations, cross-platform communication, social media, and crisis management.

Ms. Woodard holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in business administration from Youngstown State University.

“Kelly has a long history in internal and external communications, marketing, and media relations, telling her organizations’ stories and building a recognizable brand,” said Executive Ronayne. “Her experience on both sides of the fence will serve the County well as we share critical information and educate our community about Cuyahoga County government.”

The Director of Communications will need to be approved by County Council.

Ronayne has also announced that Brendan Doyle will serve as Interim Chief of Staff. Doyle currently serves as Executive Ronayne’s Special Counsel. Previously, Doyle served as Special Counsel to Cuyahoga County Council and as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in the County’s Civil Division.