Diane L. Miller-Dawson is the first African-American to serve as Finance Director for the City of Akron. She is a life-long resident, and an alumnus of Buchtel High School. Ms. Miller-Dawson earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Management and a Master’s Degree in business administration from the University of Akron.

While attending college, Diane worked in the City of Akron’s recreation division and has held various positions with the city including, operations research analyst, operations research manager and deputy finance director. In January of 2004, she was named Director of Finance.

Ms. Miller-Dawson is active in the Akron community and serves on many committees and boards. She is a member of the City of Akron/Akron Public Schools Joint Board, overseeing the construction of the city’s Community Learning Centers; the Akron General Hospital Board; the First Tee of Akron Board; the Akron Art Museum Board; Western Reserve Girls Scouts Finance and Endowment Committees; and, she is secretary/treasurer of the Summit/ Akron Solid Waste Management Authority. Diane is also a former member of the YWCA Board; former president of the Akron Summit Community Action Board; former Chair of Planned Parenthood Board; and is a graduate of Leadership Akron Class 16.

Diane is an avid golfer and is a member of two area golf leagues. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, shopping, and spending time with her family. Her interests include: education, diversity, and women’s health issues. She is a member of Kent–Akron Chapter of LINKS, an international organization of women devoted to community and service to others.