Glass City Jungle

This in via email from the office of Governor Ted Strickland, I’ve changed the order a bit to move up the appointments that directly involve this area or are those appointed from this area. I’ve also added additional biographical details for those from our area that the Governor’s release did not mention, those are in paranthesis, I’ve also included any recent donations as listed on the Ohio Secretary of State website and any total donations to Strickland…I’ve also bolded the Boards and Commissions as well for easier skimming.

Governor Announces State Board of Education, Other Appointments

Columbus, OH – Ohio Governor Ted Strickland today announced an appointment to the State Board of Education and additional appointments to state boards and commissions.

The University of Toledo Board of Trustees hires, fixes compensation of, and removes employees of the university as it deems necessary for the good of the institution. It does all else necessary to ensure the successful and continuous operation and maintenance of the university.

Joseph Zerbey, of Sylvania, has served as the president and CEO of the Toledo Blade since 2004. He previously served as the president of the Newspaper Agency Corporation from 2000-2004 and as the president of the York Newspaper Company from 1994-2000. Zerbey also serves as a board member of the Ohio Newspaper Association as the Toledo Zoo Foundation. He served in the United States Army from 1966-1969. Zerbey received a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University in 1965. (Zerbey is also the chairman of the Lucas County Improvement Corporation Board of Directors, on the finance committee of the Toledo Symphony, a member of the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Chairman’s Council for 2009 according to google and the listed organizations websites. Political donations for 2009: $250.00 to Citizens for Mary Taylor)

Linda Mansour, of Toledo, has served as the managing attorney for the law firm of Linda Mansour-Ismail since 1987. She previously served as an associate for the law firm of Sidley & Austin from 1983-1987. Mansour also serves as a member of the Toledo Women’s Bar Association and the Council for National Interest. She received a bachelor’s degree and a law degree from the University of Toledo in 1976 and 1979, respectively. (Mansour is a board member on Anthony’s Request, a board member of Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS), member of the Northwest Ohio China Task Force, Vice President of Lake Erie West Arts Council and Vice President of Toledo’s Sister Cities International. She is an arbitrator and Board member of the Toledo Labor Management Citizens Committee according to google and the listed organizations websites. No political donations listed on Secretary of State website.)

Baldemar Velasquez, of Toledo, has served as the president of the Farm Labor Organizing Committee, AFL-CIO since 1967. He also served as an organizer for the National People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit in 1991. Velasquez received the Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award in 1994. He also currently serves on the board of directors for Policy Matters Ohio. Velasquez received a degree in practical theology and was ordained as the chaplain to farm workers by Rapha Ministries. He received an honorary doctorate degree from the University of Toledo. (Velasquez also is a member of the Lucas County Improvement Corporation Executive Committee, chair of the Board of Directors for Campaign for Migrant Worker Justice, Executive Board Member of Labor Council for Latin American Advancement last update 2008 according to google and the listed organizations websites. No political donations listed on Secretary of State website.)

The Commission on Minority Health was established to promote health and the prevention of disease among members of minority groups. Each year the commission distributes grants from available funds to community-based health groups to be used to promote health and the prevention of disease among members of minority groups.

Sonia Troche, of Perrysburg, has served as the executive director of Adelante, the Latino Resource Center since 2004. She previously served as the Ohio director of the Puerto Rico Federal Affairs Administration from 2002-2004 and as a business operations executive for Netxar Technologies from 1998-2002. Troche also serves as a member of the Toledo Hispanic/Latino Strategic Alliance and of the Northwest Ohio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. She received a bachelor’s degree from the David N. Myers College in 2000 and a master’s degree from Tiffin University in 2007. (Troche also serves as a member of the National Council of La Raza (NCLR) and in October of 2009 was appointed by the Governor to Commission on Hispanic/Latino Affairs according to google and the listed organizations websites. Last political donation listed on Secretary of State site was for 2006 $500.00 to Strickland for Governor.)

Cora Munoz, of Worthington, has served as a professor of nursing for Capital University since 2002. She previously served as an associate professor for Capital University from 1995-2001. Munoz also serves as a member of the Ohio Nurses Association and the Multiethnic Mental Health Consortium. She received a bachelor’s degree from the St. Paul College of Nursing in 1969, a master’s degree from Columbia University in 1976, and a doctorate from the Ohio State University in 1995. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website was for 2007, $40.00 to Committee to elect Ray Miller.)

The State Board of Education exercises, under the acts of the general assembly, supervision of the system of public education in the state.

Kathy Leavenworth, of Russell, currently serves as a member of the West Geauga Schools Board of Education. She has served in this position since being elected in 1979, including serving as the board president from 1979-2002. She has also served as the legislative liaison and as the chair of several bond and levy campaigns. Leavenworth served as the president of the Ohio School Boards Association in 1999 and represented Ohio as a delegate to the National School Boards Association for five years. Leavenworth is also an active member of her community. She currently serves as a board member of the Western Reserve Land Conservancy and the Geauga Humane Society Rescue Village. Leavenworth also founded the West Geauga Educational Foundation in 1986 and the West Geauga Performing Arts Foundation in 2000. She received a bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for Kathleen at the same address was 2009 $1,000 to Jennifer Brunner Committee, for Kathy at the same address 2006 $250.00 to Committee to elect Raymond Ku.)

The Ohio Elections Commission hears, through “probable cause panels”, certain violations of the Elections Law at expedited hearings.

Jayme Smoot, of Columbus, has served as an associate attorney for the law firm of Littler Mendelson since 2008. She previously served as the deputy chief of staff for the Ohio Senate Democratic Caucus from 2007-2008 and as an associate attorney for the law firm of Kegler, Brown, Hill & Ritter from 2003-2007. Smoot received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame in 1998 and a law degree from the Ohio State University in 2003. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2008 $50.00 to Committee to elect W. Carlton Weddington.)

The State Employment Relations Board studies representation and negotiation problems in employment relations, recommends legislation, and studies employment conditions in the state. It also organizes collective bargaining units, hears and determines charges of unfair labor practices, and oversees negotiations between public employers and public employees.

Eugene Brundige, of London, currently serves as an arbitrator, mediator and labor relations consultant. He previously served as the chief negotiator and deputy human resources director for the City of Columbus from 1998-2000 and as the director of classified personnel for Columbus Public Schools from 1996-1998. Brundige received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from Ohio University in 1966 and 1968, respectively. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2008 for an N. Eugene $45.00 to Strickland for Governor total of $170.00 since 2005.)

The State Medical Board receives applications and conducts examinations for certificates of persons desiring to practice medicine, osteopathic medicine and surgery in the state of Ohio. The board also may revoke existing licenses or certificates of doctors and surgeons in Ohio.

J. Craig Strafford, of Gallipolis, has served as a practicing obstetrics and gynecology physician for the past thirty-four years. He previously served as the president of the Holzer Clinic from 1990-2005 and as the medical director for AdvaCare from 1985-1990. Strafford also serves as a member of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and has served in various leadership roles for the American Medical Association. He received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a doctorate from the Ohio State University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2008 $40.00 to Strickland for Governor $1560 in total to Strickland since 2005.)

The Wright State University Board of Trustees hires, fixes compensation of, and removes employees of the university as it deems necessary for the good of the institution. It does all else necessary to ensure the successful and continuous operation and maintenance of the university.

Nina Joshi, of Xenia, currently serves as the president and CEO of UES in Dayton. She previously served as the vice president and as a research scientist at UES Services. Joshi serves as a board member for the Dayton Development Coalition. She received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado, a master’s degree from American University, and a doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2009 $400 to Committee to Elect Chris Widener, also in 2009 $5,000 to Strickland for Governor.)

The Cincinnati State Technical and Community College Board of Trustees shall hire, fix compensation of, and remove employees of the college as deemed necessary. It shall do all else necessary to ensure the successful and continuous operation of Cincinnati State Technical and Community College.

Cathy Crain, of Cincinnati, previously served as a vice president for Scudder Stevens & Clark. She also served as the vice president for investments and chairwoman of charitable endowments for the National City Bank Corp. Crain currently serves as the president of the Cincinnati Opera Board of Trustees and as the vice president of the Cincinnati Parks Foundation. She received a bachelor’s degree from Skidmore College, a master’s degree from Cleveland State University, and a law degree from Akron University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for a Cathy Crain in Cincinnati listed as “retired” for 2009 $1,000.00 to Strickland for Governor.)

The Ohio Business Gateway Steering Committee directs the continuing development of the Ohio business gateway and to oversee its operations.

Adriana A. Sfalcin, of Dublin, currently serves as the executive vice president and CEO for the Ohio Council of Retail Merchants. She previously served on the management team for the Port Columbus International Airport. Sflacin received a bachelor’s degree from the Ohio State University. (No political donations on Secretary of State website.)

The Ohio Health Care Coverage & Quality Council advises the governor, general assembly, entities in the public and private sectors, and consumers on strategies to expand affordable health insurance coverage to more individuals and to improve the cost and quality of the state’s health insurance system and health care system. (No one from this area was appointed to advise the Governor.)

Holly Saelens, of New Albany, currently serves as the vice president for AMERIGROUP Community Care of Ohio. She previously served as the director of the Ohio Department of Insurance. Saelens serves as a volunteer member for the Komen Race for the Cure Development Team. She received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University and a master’s degree from the Ohio State University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for an address in Gahanna was 2009 $100.00 to Citizens for Cheryl Grossman.)

Frederick McGraw, of Pickerington, has served as the director of education and research for the Ohio Association of Public School Employees (OAPSE) for the past eight years. He previously served as a troubleshooter, field director, and field representative for OAPSE. McGraw also previously served as a member of the State Coverage Initiative Advisory Committee and the State Quality Initiative Core Team. (No political donations on Secretary of State website.)

Richard Snow, of Worthington, has served as the principal for Allied Health Services since 1997 and as the medical director for performance improvement at Doctors Hospital. He previously served as a clinical faculty instructor for the Doctors Hospital Family Practice Residency program from 1996-2006. Snow has served as a member of the American Public Health Association since 1989. He received a bachelor’s degree from Denison University in 1978 and a doctorate from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1983. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2006 $50.00 to Dan Stewart for State Representative.)

Richard Stoff, of Bexley, currently serves as the president and CEO of the Ohio Business Roundtable. He previously served as a partner for Ernst & Young and as a senior consultant for Touche Ross. Stoff has been active in workforce issues, spearheading the Ohio Skill Gap Initiative and currently serves on the national board of directors for Jobs for America’s Graduates. He received a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University in 1972 and a master’s degree from Syracuse University in 1975. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2009 $500.00 to Committee to Elect Bill Harris.)

Rebecca Williams, of Massillon, has served as the executive vice president and long term care division director for District 1199 of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) since 2005. She previously served SEIU District 1199 as a team leader from 2000-2005. Williams also currently serves as a member of the board of directors for the Ohio Health Care Trust. She graduated from Louisville High School in 1984. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2006 $50.00 to Committee to Elect Sue Morano to State Senate.)

Ron Bridges, of Columbus, currently serves as the associate director of government affairs for AARP Ohio. He previously served as the vice president of the Health Coalition of Central Ohio. Bridges received a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the Ohio State University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2009 $150.00 to Committee to Elect Ray Miller.)

Richard Cornett, of Worthington, currently serves as the CEO of the Ohio Optometric Association. He previously served as the project director for the Save Our Sight Grant, and the National Eye Institute Grants. He also served as the president of the MedOhio Health non-profit organization. Cornett received a bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky State University and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2007 $250.00 to Husted for Ohio.)

Steven Gabbe, of Columbus, currently serves as the senior vice president for health services and as the CEO of the Ohio State University Medical Center. He previously served as the dean of the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Gabbe received a bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and a medical degree from Cornell University Medical College. (No political donations on Secretary of State website.)

William Hayes, of Columbus, is the founding president of the Health Policy Institute of Ohio. He previously served as the assistant deputy director of the Office of Ohio Health Plans. Hayes received a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree and doctorate from Northwestern University. (No political donations on Secretary of State website.)

Lawerence Hill, of Wyoming, has served as the executive director for the Cincy Smiles Foundation since 1988. He previously served as the dental director for the Cincinnati Health Department from 1978-2008. Hill received a dentistry degree from the Case Western Reserve University School of Dentistry and a degree in dental public health from the University of Minnesota. (No political donations on Secretary of State website, checked “Lawrence” as well since I think that may be a typo according to CincySmiles website.)

Erin Hoeflinger, of Springboro, currently serves as the president and general manager for Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Ohio. She previously served as the president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine. Hoeflinger received a bachelor’s degree from Wright State University and a master’s degree from Xavier University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2000 Dayton address, $100.00 to Brogan for Justice Commitee.)

Oliver Henkel, of Cleveland Heights, currently serves as the chief government relations officer for the Cleveland Clinic. He previously served as a partner at the law firm of Thompson Hine and as the vice president of the Progressive Corporation. Henkel received a bachelor’s degree and a law degree from Yale University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2009 under Oliver Henkel Jr, employed at Cleveland Clinic, $1,000 to Friends of Armond Budish, $1,500 in donations to Strickland for Governor from 2008 to 2005.)

Cathy Levine, of Bexley, currently serves as the executive director of the Universal Health Care Action Network of Ohio (UHCAN). She previously served as the policy director for UHCAN, and as an associate attorney for Handelman & Kilroy. Levine also serves as the co-chair of the Ohio Consumers for Health Coverage. She received a bachelor’s degree from New York University, a master’s degree from the Goddard-Cambridge Graduate Program, and a law degree from the New England School of Law. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2009 $100.00 to Friends of Marian Harris, $200 to Strickland for Governor in 2006.)

Steve Millard, of Auburn Township, has served as the president for the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) since 1999. He previously served as the CEO for the Greater Cleveland Partnership from 2004-2008. Millard also served as the vice president for member services and operations for the Greater Cleveland Growth Association for 1999-2004. He received a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University. (Last political donation listed on Secretary of State website for 2009 listed for Stephen $500.00 to Strickland for Governor.)

Margaret Namie, of Cincinnati, currently serves as the regional vice president for quality acute & chronic services for the Mercy Health Partners. She previously served as the corporate director of chronic and palliative care for Catholic Healthcare Partners. Namie also serves as a member of the National Association for Healthcare Quality. She received a bachelor’s degree from Vanderbilt University and a master’s degree from Emory University. (No political donations on Secretary of State website.)