Emmett V. Jordan has served on Greenbelt’s City Council since 2009, completing five terms as mayor. He is both the city’s first African-American councilmember and its first African-American mayor. Since joining council, Jordan has promoted values of unity, cooperation and sustainability in city life.
Raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, and a Greenbelt resident for 25 years, Jordan moved to the area for a position with the University of Maryland. He holds a bachelor’s degree in urban administration from the University of Cincinnati and completed graduate coursework at Seton Hall University. He is also a graduate of the fellowship program at the University of Maryland’s Academy for Excellence in Local Governance, adding to his training in municipal leadership.
Jordan’s time as mayor has emphasized local economic sustainability, improved city infrastructure and environmental initiatives. Thanks in large part to his advocacy, Greenbelt added a grant writer and economic development staff to its team. These new roles help the city remain resilient and adaptable as it faces ongoing economic challenges.
As the Covid-19 pandemic receded, Jordan led council in allocating American Rescue Plan Act federal relief funds. This money was used to fund more than 60 local projects, providing assistance for residents and small businesses and improving infrastructure, public safety and social services. Several programs focused on workforce development and improvements to Schrom Hills Park and Braden Field are soon to be completed.
Beyond Greenbelt, Jordan’s public service extends nationally. He serves on the board of directors of the National League of Cities, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments and the Maryland Municipal League. His advocacy in these organizations centers on issues such as housing, transportation and economic development, giving Greenbelt a voice in wider policy conversations. Locally, he supports many Greenbelt organizations and serves on the board of CCI Health Services.
Jordan also has more than 30 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, marketing and capacity-building strategy. His professional background includes positions with the Smithsonian Institution, the University of Maryland and the United Negro College Fund.
Jordan is known for his hands-on leadership and commitment to making decisions based on evidence and input from others. Away from city hall, he enjoys tennis, cycling and supporting Greenbelt’s vibrant arts community. He remains dedicated to keeping Greenbelt a city where collaboration and practical problem-solving benefit every resident.
