Kalamazoo County Administrator/Controller Dr. Kevin A. Catlin has earned the Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association, according to an announcement released on April 6.
The credential is a nationally recognized standard for excellence in local government leadership and reflects a commitment to ethical governance, professional development, and effective public service. This achievement also reinforces Kalamazoo County’s focus on strong leadership and organizational excellence.
Dr. Catlin joins more than 1,300 local government professionals worldwide who have earned this distinction through ICMA’s Voluntary Credentialing Program. In addition to this recognition, he was recently named one of the Top 10 County Administrators in the United States for 2026 by Government Business Review for his work in strategic governance, fiscal stewardship, and community impact.
To earn the ICMA Credentialed Manager Designation, candidates must demonstrate substantial executive-level experience in local government, possess advanced education in public administration or a related field, and maintain a sustained commitment to integrity and lifelong learning. Dr. Catlin brings over a decade of executive leadership experience with prior roles as County Administrator in Boone County (Illinois), City Manager of Springfield (Michigan), Assistant City Manager and IT Director in Brookings (South Dakota), and Management Analyst in Tulsa (Oklahoma).
Board Chairperson Jen Strebs said: “On behalf of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners, we are proud to recognize Dr. Catlin for earning the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation. This achievement reflects not only his professional excellence but also his deep commitment to ethical leadership, innovation, and continuous improvement in public service. Under Dr. Catlin’s leadership, Kalamazoo County continues to advance our strategic priorities, strengthen our entire organization, and better serve all of our residents. This recognition demonstrates his ability to meet the high standard of governance and administration that our community expects and deserves.”
Catlin is also involved locally as Treasurer of OutFront Kalamazoo and Trustee at the Kalamazoo Community Foundation while maintaining active participation within ICMA through various advisory boards and committees.
