Kane County Reporter

After leading Geneva’s government operations for nine years, City Administrator Stephanie Dawkins will retire on August 15. Dawkins plans to spend more time traveling with her husband after nearly three decades in public service, including 17 years with the City of Geneva.

“It has been a deeply fulfilling experience to contribute to our shared mission of creating a place where people are excited to live, work and play,” Dawkins said. “Working alongside such committed colleagues has been a true honor, and I am grateful for the support, collaboration, and camaraderie we have shared. Over the years, I have witnessed and been a part of significant challenges and achievements within the City. These accomplishments are a testament to the collective dedication of our team.”

The search for Geneva’s next City Administrator will start this spring. The role involves supervising department heads, managing city operations, and overseeing budget preparations for the City Council.

Mayor Kevin Burns praised Dawkins’ contributions: “As chief administrative officer, Ms. Dawkins demonstrated unwavering professionalism, provided a steady hand to help the City achieve financial strength and business growth, fidelity to processes, elevated relationships with our governing partners, and helped steer Geneva into a new era of potential and promise.”

Dawkins became Geneva’s City Administrator in 2016 after serving as Assistant City Administrator/Director of Administrative Services for eight years. Despite challenges like a recession and the COVID-19 pandemic under her leadership, Geneva's bond rating improved to Aa1. The equalized assessed valuation increased by nearly 52% from its 2015 low, reducing tax levy rates while General Fund reserves expanded significantly.

Her tenure earned Geneva several accolades from the Government Finance Officers Association. Dawkins also served in various roles with local government associations including Kane County Municipal Representative and Legislative Chair with Metro West Council of Government.

She is affiliated with organizations like ICMA and Illinois City/County Management Association (ILCMA) where she participated on committees. Additionally, she was involved with Northern Illinois University’s Master of Public Administration (MPA) program both as an instructor and board advisor.

In 2022, Dawkins received honors including induction into Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration and ILCMA's inaugural Gregory J. Bielawski Service to the Profession Award.

Before joining Geneva, Dawkins held positions in Shawnee County (Kansas), Brighton (Colorado), Broward County (Florida), and Merriam (Kansas). She holds a Juris Doctor degree from Washburn University School of Law and a Master’s degree in industrial/organizational psychology from Appalachian State University.