About geraldine
Hi, I’m Dr. Geraldine O’Mahony—a longtime advocate for democracy, human rights, and community-centered change. I’m also a proud Ellensburg resident, a former professor at Central Washington University, and a Planning Commissioner here in our city. I’m running for Ellensburg City Council because I believe in local leadership that listens, includes, and delivers real results for the people who call this place home.
A life rooted in service
My professional journey began far from Ellensburg, working on the front lines of humanitarian aid and education in East and Southern Africa. I served as an auxiliary nurse and educator with Médecins Sans Frontières, in remote health clinics and classrooms. That early experience showed me the power of compassionate, community-driven solutions—and it sparked a lifelong commitment to justice and dignity for all.
Over the past 15+ years, I’ve worked around the world as a specialist in democracy and governance. I’ve served as an election observer in places like Liberia, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, and Lebanon—helping ensure that people's voices are heard and their votes count. I've advised international institutions like the European Union, the Irish government, and the National Democratic Institute. I’ve conducted field research in conflict zones, published on topics from peacebuilding to AI ethics, and consulted on government programs aimed at being more inclusive and accountable.
But while my career has had a global reach, my heart is firmly here in Ellensburg.
investing in our community
Since settling in Ellensburg, I’ve poured my energy into this community. For nearly a decade, I taught political science and international studies at CWU. My time at the university was deeply rewarding—not only teaching, but building new programs, mentoring students, and helping lead efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion. I worked to revise curriculum to better reflect the experiences of underrepresented communities and supported first-generation students from their first year through graduation.
As a Planning Commissioner for Ellensburg City Council, I’ve had a front-row seat to how decisions are made in our city. I’ve seen the opportunities we have to grow more thoughtfully, to be more transparent, and to engage residents more meaningfully in shaping our shared future.
why i'm running
I’m running for City Council because I believe that local government should be a force for good—responsive, equitable, and rooted in community values. I want to help ensure that Ellensburg grows in a way that protects what we love while building opportunities for everyone. That means housing that’s affordable, infrastructure that works, small businesses that thrive, and public spaces where we all feel welcome and safe.
It also means better communication and collaboration between City Hall and the people it serves. I want to bring my skills in policy, planning, and advocacy to the table—not as an outsider, but as a neighbor who’s deeply invested in the future of this town.change.
grounded and grateful
Outside of work, I’m usually doing something creative or curious—painting, listening to music, or practicing the drums. I value reflection, learning, and connection, and I try to bring those values into every part of my life. I also enjoy volunteering with local organizations and showing up for causes that matter in our community.
This campaign isn’t about me—it’s about us. About what we can accomplish together when we listen to one another, lead with integrity, and put people at the center of our decisions.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I hope I get the chance to meet you—and to earn your vote.
Let’s build a stronger, more connected Ellensburg, together.
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