Women’s History Month 2026

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Each March, Cleveland Housing Court joins communities across the nation in recognizing Women’s History Month, a time to reflect on the achievements, leadership, and lasting contributions of women throughout American history.

Women have played a vital role in shaping our legal system, strengthening public institutions, serving communities, and advancing fairness, access, and accountability in civic life. Their work continues to influence the courts, the legal profession, public administration, education, advocacy, and the systems that support the well-being of our communities.

Throughout the month, Cleveland Housing Court will feature women whose service, leadership, and professionalism help advance the Court’s mission and contribute to the administration of justice.

Current Spotlight

Ashley Everett

Alternative Dispute Resolution Specialist
Cleveland Housing Court

Ashley Everett is the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Specialist for Cleveland Housing Court. Her interest in ADR began in 2017, when she served as a law clerk at Housing Court. Mentored by the court’s then long-time ADR specialist, she quickly saw the value of ADR in court proceedings: it creates a path for resolution that encourages parties to candidly share their stories and concerns, ask questions, make informed decisions, and advocate for themselves.

For Ashley, ADR helps humanize landlord-tenant litigation. That understanding led her to become a strong advocate for a process that can help all parties leave court with a meaningful sense of resolution. She strives to facilitate settlements in a manner that allows parties to feel respected, heard, and empowered.

Prior to returning to Housing Court, Ashley served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Case Western Reserve University School of Law, a Postdoctoral Scholar at the Milton and Charlotte Kramer Law Clinic at Case Western Reserve University, and in roles with local nonprofits. Most recently, she served as an Equity Specialist & Investigator at Case Western Reserve University.

Diana Maldonado

Personal Bailiff to Judge Wiltshire
Cleveland Housing Court

Diana Maldonado is a dedicated court professional with a long-standing commitment to public service and operational excellence. She began her career in Housing Court in 1998 as Judge Pianka’s Administrative Assistant. Over the years, she has taken on a variety of roles, including Executive Assistant, Core Team Member, Project Coordinator, and Court Scheduler, before stepping into her current position as Personal Bailiff to Judge Wiltshire.

In her role as Personal Bailiff, Diana works closely with judges, attorneys, and court staff to ensure daily operations run smoothly, efficiently, and with careful attention to detail. Her ability to manage complex responsibilities and maintain organization in a fast-paced environment has made her a trusted and reliable member of the court team.

With extensive experience in case management, scheduling, and team coordination, Diana is known for her professionalism, dependability, and problem-solving skills. She brings a collaborative approach to her work and is committed to improving processes, enhancing communication, and supporting effective outcomes for all involved.

Etoi Shaquila Young

Court Administrator
Cleveland Housing Court

Etoi Shaquila Young’s journey in public service began as a Deputy Bailiff 28 years ago, where she first witnessed the human side of housing instability and individuals navigating complex legal systems. Rather than seeing cases, she saw people. That perspective shaped every step of her career.

As she advanced to Housing Court Specialist, Deputy Chief Housing Court Specialist, and later Personal Bailiff, Etoi became a trusted bridge between the court and the community. Her work was grounded in compassion and accountability, ensuring that the law served not only justice but dignity. She helped families understand their options, connected residents with resources, and worked diligently to prevent homelessness whenever possible.

Her leadership continued to grow as she stepped into roles as Case Manager Supervisor, Program Manager, and ultimately Court Administrator. In each position, Etoi strengthened systems designed to protect vulnerable residents. She championed initiatives focused on lead-safe living, homelessness prevention, home repair assistance, safe and equitable housing, and meaningful community engagement. Her dedication and tireless commitment have not only improved housing outcomes but have also strengthened neighborhoods across Cleveland.

Etoi is a recipient of the 72nd Annual Franklin A. Polk Public Servants Merit Award from the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association. She was also honored as a 2023 Mayor’s City Innovator Award recipient in Cleveland.