Meet Michael Ruff

.

Mike Ruff, E CITY’s new Director of Growth & Program Expansion, is determined to make E CITY a household word.  Mike has a deep personal investment in the City of Cleveland; he grew up here, attended public schools here, found mentors here, and became an entrepreneur here.  He is intent upon restoring the health of the city by reaching out to its youth. 

Interfacing with young people is nothing new to Mike.  Most recently he worked on behalf of Cuyahoga Community College’s Metro Campus, speaking to Cleveland high school students about the importance and accessibility of a college education.  In addition, hoping to improve his Union/Miles neighborhood, Mike was inspired to run for Cleveland City Council in 2005.  Although he did not win, his door-to-door campaign deepened his understanding of the severe social problems in his neighborhood and affirmed his decision to effect change by working on behalf of youth.  “I believe that with support and guidance, youth will lead productive lives,” he says. Mike has credibility with them, given his own upbringing in Cleveland, and the real estate rehabilitation business he had the courage to begin when he was only 21. 

Mike holds an Associate Degree in Business Management from Cuyahoga Community College and is working toward a degree in Urban Studies at Cleveland State University.  He is a graduate of John Adams High School