The Board of Directors of the Partnership for a Safer Cleveland has unanimously confirmed Doug Merritt as the organizationâs Executive Director, affirming his long-term leadership of Clevelandâs trusted public safety intermediary.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 1, 2025
CLEVELAND, OH â The Partnership for a Safer Cleveland announces the official retirement of longtime Executive Director Mike Walker, effective July 1, 2025. After more than 30 years of visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to public safety, community collaboration, and youth advocacy, Walker steps down, leaving an enduring legacy of service to Greater Cleveland.
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Though officially retired, Walker will remain engaged with the Partnership in an advisory capacity. His exact role moving forward is still being determined by their Board of Trustees, but his presence and input will continue to be a valued part of the organizationâs work.
âMike Walker has been the heart and conscience of the Partnership for decades,â said Judge Ronald B. Adrine (ret.), Board Chair of the Partnership for a Safer Cleveland. âHis leadership helped transform the way our community approaches safety, violence prevention, and youth development. We are deeply grateful for his service and look forward to continuing to work with him in new ways.â
Throughout his tenure, Walker was a tireless advocate for building trust between communities and law enforcement, spearheading innovative violence prevention strategies, and expanding support for at-risk youth. His work has been pivotal in shaping Clevelandâs safety landscape through partnerships that prioritize equity, dignity, and long-term impact.
The Partnership for a Safer Cleveland now begins its formal search for a permanent Executive Director in 2026 and will engage in active fundraising to support this next phase of leadership and growth.
ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP: Partnership for a Safer Cleveland is a collaborative, safety-centered, intermediary advocating for an end to community violence. Leveraging over 40 years as a convener and trusted partner, we serve as a critical conduit between government, law enforcement, the legal system, nonprofits, and invested citizens to advance solutions to Greater Clevelandâs most pressing safety concerns.
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Contact: Doug Merritt I Executive Director I dmerritt@safercleveland.org
