Dawn E. Hughes was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana and is a dedicated public servant, community leader, and advocate for equitable opportunity. She currently serves as the first African American Deputy Director of Assessment for the Marion County Assessor’s office, where she helps oversee the administration of fair, uniform, and equitable business personal property assessments while ensuring compliance with state law and professional standards.
With a career spanning public administration, community relations, and civic engagement, Dawn brings extensive experience in organizational leadership, policy implementation, operations, and community outreach. Before joining the Marion County Assessor’s Office, she served as Director of Community Relations for Lawrence Township, where she led community outreach initiatives, managed departmental operations, developed strategic partnerships, and helped connect residents with vital resources.
Dawn is also deeply committed to service and leadership beyond her professional role. She serves as Treasurer of Ivy Endowment Incorporated, supporting the organization’s financial stewardship and scholarship efforts. Through her involvement with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, she has held leadership roles in financial management, community service, women’s health initiatives, and major regional events.
A graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising, Dawn also holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training from the University of Phoenix. She is passionate about developing women leaders, strengthening communities, and creating systems that promote transparency, opportunity, and meaningful civic engagement.
Dawn is married to Mark Hughes, and together they are the proud parents of four grown children and their three dogs.