Q&A

What are your aspirations for contributing to politics in a new way? I hope to get younger people involved in public service.

How has being a mature female adult impacted the last few years of your life? Some might say that I am not fitting into the category of being a mature adult/female. At first, I wasn’t sure why younger folks were offering to put my suitcase in the overhead bin on the airplane. But now, I accept their help. I have a motorcycle (a Spyder). I believe that life is an adventure, and I intend to live it as much as possible.

“My undergraduate degree is in political science, but my foray into elected office began when a community activist asked me to consider running for public office to help change the devastation occurring in our Toledo neighborhoods.” Rep. Hicks-Hudson was up for the task. From 1998 to 2002 she served as legislative director of Toledo City Council. In 2015 she became the first black female Mayor of Toledo.

She has also worked as an assistant Lucas County prosecutor, assistant public defender, assistant state attorney general, director and deputy director of the Lucas County Board of Elections and chief legal counsel to the Ohio Office of Budget and Management.

Rep. Hicks-Hudson’s children were raised in Toledo. “My husband, Freeman W. Hudson, believed that Toledo was on the cusp of redevelopment and revitalization. We found the city to be a great place for our children to grow up. My family is very important to me. My husband was my best and biggest supporter. He never hindered me from pursuing my education or activities. Our children are productive adults who are caring and confident individuals. I work for them and other children as they are our future.” Rep. Hicks-Hudson has 7 grandchildren.

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Do you have an exercise routine? I do yoga now and it keeps me flexible.

Do you have a favorite Toledo meal or a secret treat you love? Anything Lebanese.

What do you enjoy reading? Mysteries and biographies.

Can you share a favorite quote? Dwell in Possibilities.

What would you say to a young person considering a career in law or politics? We need you!

Do you have a hobby? I have several hobbies but not a lot of time. I knit, read and play the piano.

From Mayor of Toledo to State Representative - What’s next? Politically, I will continue serving the citizens of Lucas County as their state senator in District 11. Personally, I want to remain healthy, engaged and travel, when I can, with my grands.