Ukeme Awakessien Jeter
About Ukeme Awakessien Jeter
Ukeme Awakessien Jeter serves as a Council Member for the City of Upper Arlington and is a Partner at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, specializing in Intellectual Property Transactions. She is recognized for her leadership in local government and her commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Work at City of Upper Arlington
Currently serving as a Council Member at the City of Upper Arlington since 2022, with a notable history of engagement in local governance. Previously, held the position of Candidate for Upper Arlington City Council in November 2021. Made history in 2021 as the first person of color elected to the City Council. In January 2024, became the first person of color to be selected as President and Mayor of the Upper Arlington City Council. Actively involved in various committees, including serving on the 2019 Citizen Financial Review Committee and being an inaugural member of the Community Relations Committee from 2020 to 2021.
Current Role at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
Serves as a Partner in Intellectual Property Transactions at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP since 2021. Focuses on intellectual property licenses and related agreements, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach that combines legal expertise with business acumen. This role allows for the provision of innovative solutions for clients, leveraging extensive experience in the field of law. The position reflects a commitment to fostering strong partnerships with stakeholders and colleagues.
Education and Expertise
Holds a Juris Doctor (JD) from Case Western Reserve University School of Law, specializing in Intellectual Property Law. Additionally, earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Massachusetts Lowell, with a focus on Finance and Strategy. Also possesses a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maine, where she was a college athlete in track and field. This diverse educational background supports a robust understanding of both legal and business principles.
Professional Background
Has a comprehensive professional background in law and engineering, with experience in various legal roles. Worked as an Attorney at Nationwide from 2018 to 2021, and held positions at Dinsmore & Shohl LLP, McDonald Hopkins LLC, and Pearne & Gordon LLP. Earlier in her career, served as a Process Improvement Manager at SCA - Hygiene and Forest Products Company and as a Project Engineer at Georgia Pacific. Also gained valuable experience through internships at Parker Hannifin, Fay Sharpe, and the World Intellectual Property Organization.
Community Involvement and Personal Interests
Engaged in community service through roles such as serving on the Ohio Legal Help Board of Directors and participating in the United Way of Central Ohio’s Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Council. A graduate of Leadership Upper Arlington, class of 2019. Enjoys city events, exploring parks, bike rides, and playing games like UNO and Charades. Lives in the Greensview neighborhood of Upper Arlington and is a devoted mother to two children and a dog. Holds a passion for travel, which enhances her ability to connect with diverse communities.