Marilyn John

Growing up, John was encouraged to participate in politics by her family while attending Plymouth High School. After graduating, she enrolled in an associate's program at North Central State College and an MBA program at Ashland University.[1] As a result of her time a North Central Technical College, she founded the Leader Richland program to prepare elementary school students for a college setting. In recognition of her efforts, John was the recipient of the 2019 OACC Distinguished Alumnus Award.[2]

Using her MBA degree, John began working as an underwriter at Shelby Insurance Company and as the executive director of the Shelby Senior Center.[1] While serving in these roles, John was elected Mayor of Shelby, Ohio after defeating Cohen Lewis and Bill Freytag in the general election with 1,120 votes.[3] During her first term as mayor, John said she would prioritize improving communications within the administration and communication between the city and the community.[4] She was re-elected for a second term in 2011[5] before resigining in 2014 to accept her election as Richland County Commissioner.[6] Prior to her resignation, she was the recipient of the Elected Official of the Year Award by the Area Agency on Aging, Ohio District 5.[7]

During her tenure as Richland County Commissioner, John helped establish a rainy day fund, stabilized carryover funds, and create a five-year capital improvements plan.[8] Before her term as commissioner expired, John was elected Representative for the 2nd district of the Ohio House of Representatives on November 3, 2020.[9] On January 4, 2021, John was officially sworn for her first term of office as the state representative for the 2nd Ohio House District.[10]

John and her husband Kevin have two children together and attend Crossroads Community Church.[11] While living in Miami County, she taught yoga at a fitness studio for four years.[12]