STAFF

Congressman Zack Space was born in Dover, OH and served in Ohio’s 18th District from 2006 to 2011. Zack was a champion of working-class Ohioans, and was instrumental in bringing broadband technology, employment opportunities, and infrastructure improvements to his district.

A lifelong resident of Newark, Senator Jay Hottinger represented Licking County for 28 years in the Ohio Legislature. He served as the second-highest ranking member of the Ohio senate signing dozens of bills into law and his work in the region has resulted in numerous awards.

State Representative Jack Cera, a native of Bellaire, Ohio served in the Ohio House of Representatives for 23 years. Rep Cera worked to bring millions of dollars back to his district for a variety of projects including; the Roadwork Development Fund and the Rural Industrial Park program.

A former Vice President of Western Reserve Land Conservancy and the founder of its’ Thriving Communities Institute, Jim served for 19 years on the Cleveland City Council and in 1997 took office at Cuyahoga County Treasurer. He has played an integral role in numerous Ohio housing programs and the recipient of numerous awards throughout the State of Ohio.

Previously a political journalist who launched a non-profit investigative news journalism site, Will has raised millions of dollars for progressive political operations and has staffed successful executives, high-profile national speakers and former state and federal politicians.

From receiving various awards and recognition for community leadership, Zach has helped bring hundreds of thousands of grant dollars used to eliminate slum and blight in struggling Ohio communities.

As a proud Marietta resident and native, Sam holds an MPA in City, Urban, and Regional planning. He started his career as City Planner for Parkersburg, WV and now serves as the President of the Marietta Board of Education.

Graduating Summa Cum Lade from Kent State University in Political Science, Malania focused on public policy, social welfare, and community-based organizing. She is currently the youngest fellow at the 2022-2023 Appalachian Regional Commission’s Appalachian Leadership Institute. Additionally, Malania is the manager of CORAS where she has specialized in child education and welfare policy.

A lifelong resident of Southern Ohio, Andy graduated Ohio University which took him around the globe. Andy has helped to bring tens of millions of dollars to Southern Ohio leading on numerous client-specific projects and community and economic development initiatives.

A Belmont County native, Riley graduated from Ohio University with a focus on Political Science and the intersection of Law, Justice, and Culture, with an emphasis on public policy. Riley previously interned for Congressman Tim Ryan and is passionate about education accessibility, public health, and overall social welfare in rural Appalachia.

A lifelong Appalachian, Reid graduated from Ashland University studying ancient and modern political theory and American democracy. Reid was previously a Legislative Fellow within the Majority Caucus of the Ohio House of Representatives and a Legislative Aide for a member at the Chamber.

As an Ohio University graduate student pursuing a Masters of Public Health, Kaitlyn has specialized in child mental health and welfare policy and the community engagement management of the Appalachian Children Coalition. She previously worked with the Mayor’s Partnership for Progress providing support for regional mayors and city managers navigating government relief funding.

With many years of design experience and knowledge, Steph has spent her career working with non-profits such as Community Food Initiatives in Athens and in the public library system. She specializes in user experience design with a focus on different demographics and accessibility needs.

A long-time resident of Athens and current Ohio University graduate student pursuing a Masters of Public Health, Breanna has many years of experience working with families of diverse backgrounds from her work at Mom's First in Cleveland as well as Early Head Start with Hocking Athens Perry Community Action.

Currently completing a Masters of Applied Politics at University of Akron, Kerry has worked with the Stark County Community Action agency on their Summer Youth Employment Program where they helped underserved students gain a work opportunity and better understanding of future career opportunities.

Stephanie is working through Sunday Creek Horizon as the Chief of Staff for Morla Ventures, working with companies in energy, decarbonization, chemical manufacturing, and healthcare. Her expertise in high-growth startups, strategic operations, and efficiency are assets to energy and carbon products.

A lifelong Scioto County resident, Sarah is a senior at Ohio University majoring in Political Science: Pre-Law and Psychology. Sarah is an active member of several on-campus organizations; Phi Alpha Delta: Pre-Law Fraternity, The ACLU-Ohio, The Ohio Innocence Project, and the Political Science Major Association.