In 2018, after living in various cities across three countries, Ukeme Awakessien Jeter chose Upper Arlington as her “forever home”. In the short time she has been a UA resident, Ukeme has immersed herself into the community in numerous ways, such as graduating from the Leadership UA Program, serving on the 2019 UA Financial Review Taskforce, and, currently, serving on the newly formed Community Relations Committee for the City, whose purpose is to promote understanding and mutual respect and to foster a culture of shared community. In 2021, Ukeme spearheaded efforts to bring Upper Arlington its first city-wide Black History Month Celebration. As a member of the Upper Arlington City Council, Ukeme vows to promote broader civic engagement to under-represented members of the community. In addition, she will plan for sustainable growth that prioritizes socio-economic diversity, maintain long-term perspective to UA’s fiscal and operational oversight responsibilities, improve infrastructure, and leverage technology to meet the needs of our community. If elected, Ukeme will strive to bridge Upper Arlington’s past with its future, and “keep Upper Arlington a City of Choice”.