About Dr. Coutanya Coombs
Vice-Mayor | Community Leader | Advocate for a Brighter Future
Dr. Coutanya M. Coombs has devoted her life to service—whether in the classroom, in business, or at the heart of Westerville’s local government. Since 2022, she has proudly served as Vice-Mayor and a Member of City Council, where she is known for her collaborative approach, deep listening, and commitment to turning community concerns into real results.
A Commitment to Westerville
Dr. Coombs has called Westerville home since 2005. She and her husband Kristopher raised their family here, building strong ties with neighbors, schools, and local organizations. Her love for the city stems from its welcoming spirit, thriving local businesses, beautiful parks, and commitment to progress. She believes Westerville’s success depends on keeping those values strong while planning wisely for the future.
Education & Expertise
A lifelong learner, Dr. Coombs holds:
- Ph.D. in Non-Profit Management & Leadership – Walden University
- Master’s Degrees in Technology, Training & Development, and Work Performance Improvement – Eastern Illinois University
- Bachelor of Business Administration – North Carolina Central University
This strong academic foundation, paired with decades of professional experience, allows her to lead with both compassion and data-driven insight.
Professional and Public Service
Before her election to City Council, Dr. Coombs built a diverse career:
In public service, she has served as a Delaware County Precinct Official and Provisional Voting Specialist, ensuring fair and accessible elections for over six years.
As Vice-Mayor, she represents Westerville on the Westerville Industry & Commerce Corporation, the Westerville Fund, and the Finance Audit Review Committee. Her leadership has contributed to maintaining Westerville’s AAA bond rating from all three major credit agencies—a mark of strong, stable, and fiscally responsible governance.
Community Leadership
Dr. Coombs is deeply engaged in civic life, serving on or supporting Westerville institutions and organizations.
Her humanitarian efforts have earned her the Humanitarian Award from Church Women United in Columbus and Franklin County.
Westerville Sunrise Rotary
(Paul Harris Fellow & Past Grants Committee Chair)
Westerville Chamber of Commerce Women in Business
(Past Chair)
Westerville Education Foundation Board
Business Inclusion Opportunities Council
(Chair)
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Lifeline Christian Missions
(Nine mission trips to Haiti, additional service in South Africa)
St. John AME Foreign Missions Ministry
Coutanya’s Vision for Westerville
Dr. Coombs believes in smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and community stewardship.
“We don’t just develop land—we develop belonging. And belonging keeps Westerville strong.”
Coutanya’s Vision for Westerville
Dr. Coombs believes in smart growth, fiscal responsibility, and community stewardship.
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Why She Serves
Dr. Coombs’ journey has taken her from Ohio classrooms to South African townships, from city boardrooms to mission fields in Haiti. Through every chapter, her purpose has remained the same: to serve with integrity, compassion, and vision.