Tenille N. Kaus

Biography

Tenille N. Kaus was elected to her first four-year City Council term starting January 1, 2026. Her current term expires December 31, 2029. Kaus first joined City Council in May 2024, when she was appointed to fill a vacant seat with a term expiring December 31, 2025.

Work History

Currently, Kaus is an associate attorney at Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority.  An attorney specializing in employment law and labor relations, Kaus previously served as director of diversity, equity, inclusion, and advancement at the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, where she led the implementation of Legal Aid’s DEI plan. Prior to that, Kaus served as director of labor relations for the Cleveland Metropolitan School District. She has served in similar roles for Summit County and the Summa Health System. 

Volunteer Activities

Kaus has held a variety of volunteer roles in the community, most recently as a trustee of the Shaker Heights Public Library, which she resigned from in order to focus on City Council.  Kaus is also the chair of the Cuyahoga County Women’s Health Commission.  

Education

Kaus graduated summa cum laude from University of Pittsburgh and received her JD cum laude from University of Akron School of Law. 

Personal Life

Kaus grew up in Cleveland Heights and graduated from Beaumont School. She now lives in the Lomond neighborhood with her daughter, who serves on the student council at her school. They are both passionate about serving on Council and advocating for the needs of others.