Ghida Neukirch, Highland Park City Manager, was recognized with an Outstanding Manager Award by the Illinois Association of Municipal Management Assistants for her extensive contributions to the City of Highland Park and the municipal management profession. Ghida has over twenty-five years of local government experience and has shown tremendous commitment to the City and the local government profession.
Ghida's extensive outreach through various community organizations has resulted in the creation of the Career Exploration Program for Highland Park High School students, annual training programs for City staff, and positive relationships with sister governments, businesses and residents of the City. Additionally, Ghida volunteers as a guest lecturer for master's degree programs at various universities.
Ghida works closely with the City Council and the City's executive management team to oversee the daily operations of the City. Her leadership has resulted in numerous accomplishments including maintaining the City's Aaa bond rating, completing a municipal consolidation of fire and EMS to provide services to the City of Highwood, and the completion of multiple public works projects including ravine stabilizations and reconstruction of parking facilities using sustainable construction materials, among many others.
Ghida conducts herself with the highest ethical standards and cares about preparing the next generation of municipal leaders to be successful managers. We congratulate Ghida on her award and are proud of her distinguished service to the City of Highland Park.