Jenita McGowan

Jenita McGowan serves as the Chief of Climate and Sustainability for Cuyahoga County, where she leads efforts to drive the county's climate action initiatives, promote environmental sustainability, and foster resilience in the face of climate change. In this role, Jenita is responsible for coordinating cross-sector efforts aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing clean energy solutions, and ensuring that Cuyahoga County’s environmental policies are equitable and inclusive.
With a deep background in environmental policy, urban sustainability, and climate resilience, Jenita has been a passionate advocate for integrating environmental stewardship into all aspects of county governance. She works closely with local government officials, community organizations, businesses, and regional partners to develop and implement strategies that address climate change, promote green infrastructure, and enhance sustainable practices in areas such as transportation, energy, water and waste management.
Jenita has been a leader in sustainability for more than 15 years with experience in the public and private sectors. Before joining Cuyahoga County, she served as the Director of
Global Sustainability Engagement and Reporting at Eaton Corporation, a power management company. She previously led sustainability efforts at the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District and as the Chief of Sustainability for the City of Cleveland. She received her bachelor’s degree from Kent State University and holds a master’s degree in Nonprofit Management from the Weatherhead School at Case Western Reserve University.