Melia Howard, Deputy Mayor, City of Detroit

Melia Howard, a lifelong Detroiter, is the city’s second woman to serve as Deputy Mayor. Previously, she was the Director of Community Engagement, where she fostered community support for major development projects and shaped their community benefits agreements.

Howard has also held roles as the Mayor’s Special Projects Manager and District 5 Manager for the Department of Neighborhoods, enhancing community relationships and addressing residents’ concerns. She initiated the "Saturdays in the D" program, providing educational opportunities at the University of Michigan for 100 high school students and adults annually.

In her current role, she continues the Community Violence Intervention work, contributing to significant reductions in homicides and shootings. Howard’s passion and expertise make her a key player in Detroit’s transformation.