Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s office announced 52 state appointments on Friday. Areas include education, health care, law enforcement, economic development, technology and aging.
The Columbus Metropolitan Statistical Area (Delaware, Fairfield, Franklin, Hocking, Licking, Madison, Morrow, Perry, Pickaway and Union counties) had highest number of state appointments at 19.
The Greater Cleveland Metropolitan Statistical Area (Cuyahoga, Ashtabula, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina counties) came in second with 12 appointments. Greater Cincinnati (Hamilton, Butler, Warren, Clermont and Brown counties) had nine appointments.
Appointments, terms of office, and organizational descriptions are listed below. Counties of residence appear in parentheses.
Bowling Green State University Board of Trustees
- Everett E. Gallagher Jr. of New Albany (Franklin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 16, 2032.
- Luke C. Woolard of Westerville (Delaware) has been appointed as a student member for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 16, 2028.
The Bowling Green State University Board of Trustees is comprised of nine members, plus two nonvoting students and three national trustees, appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Senate. Amy Shore, chair; Russell Martin, vice chair.
Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio 43403-0001. 419-372-2531.
Cleveland State University Board of Trustees
- James G. Pilla of Highland Heights (Cuyahoga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 1, 2032.
The Cleveland State University Board of Trustees consists of nine trustees, a secretary to the board, two faculty representatives and two student representatives. The governor appoints trustees to nine-year terms or the remainder of vacated terms. The governor also appoints two student trustees for two-year terms. Only the nine trustees have voting power. Timothy J. Cosgrove, chair. Term expires May 1, 2025. Vanessa L. Whiting, vice chair. Term expires May 1, 2028. Alan G. Starkoff, treasurer. Term expired May 1, 2026. Board members.
Cleveland State University, 2121 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44115-2318. 216-687-2000. Website.
Kent State University Board of Trustees
- Rick D. Sonkin of Pepper Pike (Cuyahoga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 16, 2032.
- Orane P. Hanson of Garfield Heights (Cuyahoga) has been appointed as a student member for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 16, 2028.
The Board of Trustees is composed of 11 members who are appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the state Senate. Trustees are appointed to nine-year terms, with the exception of student and national trustees. The two student trustees are appointed to a two-year term as nonvoting members.
The Board of Trustees is the governing body of Kent State University. The board is responsible for selecting and appointing the president; setting the operating budget; approving personnel appointments; granting all degrees awarded by the University, (including honorary degrees); establishing tuition and fee rates; approving contracts; and approving all rules, regulations, curriculum changes, new programs and degrees.
Kent State University, 800 E. Summit St., Kent, Ohio 44242. 330-672-3000. Website.
Terra State Community College Board of Trustees
- Elaine E. Daugherty of Tiffin (Seneca) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Dec. 30, 2030.
Terra State is a two-year public community college located in Fremont.
Terra State Community College. 2830 Napoleon Road, Fremont 43420. 419-334-8400.
Southern State Community College Board of Trustees
- Kelly D. Faas of Georgetown (Brown) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 11, 2032.
- Kellie L. Wahl of Wilmington (Clinton) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 11, 2032.
The Southern State Board of Trustees has nine members. Trustees are appointed by the governor for six-year terms. The board makes decisions concerning the community college, and selects, appoints and evaluates the president.
Southern State Community College – Central Campus, 100 Hobart Drive, Hillsboro, Ohio 45133. 800-628-7722. Website.
The Ohio State University Board of Trustees
- Annie B. Feibel of Bexley (Franklin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 13, 2028.
The Ohio State University Board of Trustees oversees academic programs, budgets, general administration and employment at The Ohio State University. The board consists of 15 voting trustees and two non-voting student trustees, all of whom must be Ohio residents. The governor appoints trustees to six-year terms. The board may select up to three non-voting, non-Ohio residents to serve as charter trustees for three-year terms. Jeff M.S. Caplan, chair; Elizabeth F. Kessler, vice chair.
University of Cincinnati Board of Trustees
- Sean J. Walulik of Cincinnati (Hamilton) has been appointed as a student member for a term beginning June 5, 2026, and ending May 13, 2028.
The University of Cincinnati Board of Trustees is the institution’s governing body. It is composed of 11 members (nine voting members and two nonvoting student members). Trustees are appointed for nine-year terms by the governor, with the exception of student trustees who are appointed to two-year terms.
The board is responsible for selecting and appointing the president; setting the operating budget; approving personnel appointments; granting all degrees awarded by the university, (including honorary degrees); establishing tuition and fee rates; approving contracts; and approving all rules, regulations, curriculum changes, new programs and degrees.
University of Cincinnati, 2600 Clifton Ave., Cincinnati 45221. 513-556-6000. Website.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Council
- Joseph A. Roop of New Albany (Franklin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending June 1, 2029.
- T. Achele Thompson of Perrysburg (Wood) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending June 1, 2029.
- Montgomery S. Taylor of Willoughby (Lake) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending June 1, 2029.
- Richard M. Schostek of Dublin (Franklin) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending June 1, 2029.
The Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Council assists people with disabilities with resources, support, employment, disability determinations, accessibility and independence. Rick Schostek (Dublin), chair; Jo Hannah Ward (Delaware), vice chair.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Council, Central Office, 150 E. Campus View Blvd., Suite 300, Columbus, Ohio 43235. 614-438-1200. Toll-free: 800-282-4536. Email: in**@*od.ohio. Youngstown office – Vocational Rehabilitation Appointment Center, 242 W. Federal St., Suite 403, Youngstown, Ohio 44503. 330-797-9980. Toll-free: 800-686-5145. Fax: 614-985-8370. Email: oo**************@******io.gov.
Ohio History Connection Board of Trustees
- Mary A. Stier of Fairfield (Butler) has been appointed for a term beginning June 27, 2026 and ending June 26, 2029.
- Jan Allen of Columbus (Franklin) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 27, 2026 and ending June 26, 2029.
Ohio History Connection preserves and educates the public about the state’s history and manages more than 50 sites and museums across Ohio. The nonprofit also houses the State Historic Preservation Office.
Ohio History Connection. 800 E. 17th Ave., Columbus 43211. 614-297-2300, 800-686-6124. Website.
Ohio State Dental Board
- Nancy M. Stanwick of Silver Lake (Summit) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 6, 2030.
- Fady F. Faddoul of Mayfield Village (Cuyahoga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 6, 2030.
- Sarat Thikkurissy of Cincinnati (Hamilton) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 6, 2030.
- George T. Williams of Canton (Stark) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 6, 2030.
The State Dental Board seeks to protect the oral health of Ohioans and promotes access to care. Areas include legislation, licensure, education, and enforcement of laws and rules. The board consists of 13 members appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Terms of office are four years.
Ohio State Dental Board, 77 S. High St., 17th Floor, Columbus 43215-6135. 614-466-2580. Website.
Chemical Dependency Professionals Board
- Tracy L. Thomas of Pleasantville (Fairfield) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Dec. 23, 2026.
The Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board certifies and licenses professionals working in alcohol, tobacco and other drug prevention programs and in the promotion of mental health. The board staff also conducts investigations. The Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board has 13 members, of which 12 members are appointed by the governor. The 13th member is a designee from ODADAS who will serve as an ex-officio member. Board members serve three-year terms and cannot be reappointed after two consecutive full terms. Jill Smock, executive director. Board staff.
Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board, Vern Riffe Center, 77 S. High St., 16th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215. 614-387-1110. Website.
Board of Executives of Long-Term Services and Supports
- Kevin J. Kauffman Jr. of Strongsville (Cuyahoga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 27, 2029.
- Cristal Vincent of Batavia (Clermont) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 27, 2029.
- Michael R. Coury of Olmsted Falls (Cuyahoga) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending May 27, 2029.
Board of Executives of Long-Term Services and Supports (BELTSS). Board members are appointed by the governor for three-year terms. BELTSS develops and enforces standards for nursing home administrators; formulates appropriate examinations; and issues, revokes and suspends licenses. The board investigates complaints; evaluates and approves continuing education courses to meet license renewal requirements; controls an ongoing trainee program for prospective nursing home administrators and maintains a register of all licensed nursing home administrators and trainees. Michael Scharfenberger, chairman; Michael R. Coury, vice chairman.
Board of Executives of Long-Term Services and Supports (BELTSS), 30 E. Broad St., 22nd Floor, Columbus 43215-3414. Website.
Ohio Advisory Council for Aging
- Jennifer K. Carlson of Blacklick (Franklin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Nov. 21, 2026.
- Karen M. Rose of Columbus (Franklin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Nov. 21, 2027.
The Ohio Advisory Council for Aging is comprised of 12 members appointed by the governor. Terms are three years with reappointment possible. No member shall serve more than three consecutive terms. The council advises the director on issues affecting older Ohioans. Four members (ex officio) are drawn from the state legislature. The council also includes the directors (ex officio) of the following: Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services; Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities; Ohio Department of Health; and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (or their designees).
Council members: Semanthie B. Brooks, Macedonia, chair; David M. Bass, Copley; Timothy Bete, Beavercreek; Yuvette Bozman, Moreland Hills; Misty Crosby, Belpre; Stephanie Garrett, West Alexandria; Phil Walton, Perrysburg; and Lori Wengerd, Upper Arlington. Members from the Ohio General Assembly: Sen. Steve Wilson (R-7th District); Rep. Tracy Richardson (R-86th District); and Rep. Daniel P. Troy (D-Willowick).
Ohio Department of Aging, 30 E. Broad St., 22nd Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215-3414. 1-800-266-4346. Website.
Commission on Minority Health
- Ira Bragg-Grant of University Heights (Cuyahoga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Sept. 2, 2027.
- T.M. Ayodele Adesanya of Pickerington (Fairfield) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Sept. 2, 2027.
- Ohio Commission on Minority Health, works to eliminate health disparities among minority populations and communities (African, African-American, Asian, Hispanic/Latino and Native American). Also funds community-based initiatives.
Ohio Commission on Minority Health, 77 S. High St., 18th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215. 1-614-466-4000. Fax: 1-614-752-9049.
Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board
- Mark E. Piepmeier of Cincinnati (Hamilton) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 29, 2029.
- Anthony L. Johnson of Columbus (Franklin) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 29, 2027.
- Robin S. Engel of Cincinnati (Hamilton) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 29, 2029.
- Walter S. Moss of Canton (Stark) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 29, 2029.
- Justin Páez of Columbus (Franklin) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 29, 2029.
Ohio Collaborative Community-Police Advisory Board established Ohio’s first state law enforcement standards and works to instill greater confidence between law enforcement and the public. The Ohio Collaborative is comprised of 12-member panel of law enforcement experts and community leaders from throughout the state. Website.
Ohio Office of Criminal Justice Services. 1970 W. Broad St., Columbus 43223. Toll-Free: 888-448-4842.
Statewide 9-1-1 Steering Committee
- Brad A. Brubaker of Columbus Grove (Putnam) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Dec. 31, 2026.
- Daniel L. Chafin of Wadsworth (Medina) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Dec. 31, 2028.
- Dennis L. Nicodemus of Reynoldsburg (Franklin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Dec. 31, 2028.
The Statewide 9-1-1 Steering Committee advises Ohio on the implementation, operation and maintenance of the state’s emergency services internet protocol network (ESINet). Angela Canepa, chair. The committee consists of 10 members, nine of which are voting members. Committee members serve for four-year terms. Five are appointed by the governor. Two are from the state House of Representatives and appointed by the speaker (one from the majority party and one from the minority party) and two are from the state Senate appointed by the president of the Senate (one from the majority party and one from the minority party).
Statewide 9-1-1 Steering Committee, Ohio Department of Administrative Services, 30 E. Broad St., Columbus, Ohio 43215. 614-466-6511.
Ohio Home Inspector Board
- Stephen A. Howard of Dayton (Montgomery) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 5, 2027.
- Rodney L. Berning of Pickerington (Fairfield) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 5, 2029.
- Barant D. Pastorek of Granville (Licking) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 5, 2030.
The Ohio Home Inspector Board regulates the licensure and performance of home inspectors in the state. The board sets standards for home inspections, establishes education and experience requirements and enforces rules to prevent conflicts of interest. The board also conducts disciplinary hearings and appeals of the superintendent’s decisions. The board has seven members. Five members are licensed Ohio home inspectors appointed by the governor. Two are public (consumer) members — one appointed by the speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives and one appointed by the president of the Ohio Senate.
Ohio Home Inspector Board, Ohio Department of Commerce, 77 S. High Street, 23rd Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215-6133.
Historical Boilers Licensing Board
- Bruce E. Babcock of Amanda (Fairfield) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending June 4, 2031.
The Historical Boilers Licensing Board sets the criteria and procedures for the inspection of historical boilers as well as licensing of historical boiler operators. The board also approves historical boiler-operator courses, which applicants must attend in order to meet the licensing requirements to become a historical-boiler operator. James Lashaway, board chairman.
Historical Boilers Licensing Board, Ohio Department of Commerce | 77 S. High St., 23rd Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215-6133.
Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission
- Aaron A. Poklar of Chagrin Falls (Geauga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending July 1, 2029.
- Jimmie J. Blevins of Columbus (Franklin) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending July 1, 2029.
- Robert L. Winter of Cincinnati (Hamilton) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending July 1, 2029.
The Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission helps resolve complaints about registered cemeteries—or cemeteries required to be registered—using informal mediation, conciliation and persuasion. If you have a problem with a cemetery, you can bring a complaint to the commission.
Ohio Cemetery Dispute Resolution Commission, Ohio Department of Commerce, 77 S. High St., 23rd Floor. Columbus 43215-6133.
Elevator Safety Review Board
- Samantha L. McCauley of Blacklick (Franklin) has been designated to serve as Chair of the Elevator Safety Review Board effective May 11, 2026.
The Elevator Safety Review Board helps ensure that elevator work in Ohio is done safely and follows state laws. The board enforces the rules for elevator contractors and mechanics by reviewing written complaints, investigating possible violations, holding hearings and issuing penalties when necessary.
Elevator Safety Review Board, Ohio Department of Commerce, 77 S. High St., 23rd Floor, Columbus 43215-6133.
Forestry Advisory Council
- Constance E. Hausman of Medina (Medina) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending February 28, 2030.
- Sayeed Reza Mehmood of Columbus (Franklin) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending February 28, 2030.
The Ohio Forestry Advisory Council advises and makes recommendations regarding forestry programs and practices in the state. The Council consists of eight members appointed by the governor, with the advice and consent of the state Senate. No more than four members can be from the same political party. Terms are four years.
Ohio Forestry Advisory Council, 2045 Morse Road, Building D, Columbus, Ohio 43229-6693. 877-247-8733. 614-265-6694. Website.
Ohio Nuclear Development Authority
- Tracy J. Orf of Lebanon (Warren) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending Aug. 1, 2029.
The Ohio Nuclear Development Authority advocates the development of nuclear energy in Ohio. The board has nine members appointed by the governor.
Ohio Nuclear Development Authority, Vern Riffe Center, 19th Floor, 77 S. High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215.
Third Frontier Commission
- Neill W. Lane of Athens (Athens) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 1, 2027.
The Ohio Third Frontier Commission administers Third Frontier Ohio, the state’s technology-based economic development initiative. The commission includes an 11-member body, seven of whom are appointed by the governor. Members serve three-year terms. The commission is responsible for the allocation of funds appropriated by the Ohio General Assembly to support programs and activities associated with the Ohio Third Frontier.
Lydia L. Mihalik, chair, director, Ohio Department of Development; Mike Duffey, chancellor, Ohio Department of Higher Education; Joe Zeis, Science and Technology advisor, Governor’s Office; J.P. Nauseef, president and chief investment officer, JobsOhio; Lauren Bakaletz, Ph.D., vice president, Basic Sciences Research, Nationwide Children’s Hospital; Dave Luketic, vice president, Government Affairs, Root, Inc.; David Enstone, retired; Matthew Jones, vice president, Cincinnati Business Committee; Jonathan Stock, VORYS, public-at-large representative; and Paul Yost, chief technical officer/chief of research and development, YOST Labs.
Department of Development, 77 S. High St., 29th Floor, Columbus, Ohio 43215. 800-848-1300. Website.
Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism
-
INGRAM Amelia P. Alexander of Ada (Hardin) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 21, 2029.
- Caleb R. Ingram of Covington (Miami) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 21, 2029.
- Dorothy R. Moulthrop of Shaker Heights (Cuyahoga) has been appointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 21, 2029.
- Jason P. Kucsma of Sylvania (Lucas) has been reappointed for a term beginning June 5, 2026 and ending April 21, 2029.
The Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism (ServeOhio) works with AmeriCorps members and volunteers to address state frontline issues in education, health, economic opportunity, and the environment. ServeOhio collaborates with nonprofits, government, and community organizations across the state.
Ohio Commission on Service and Volunteerism, 30 E. Broad St., Suite 2487 Columbus, Ohio 43215. 614-728-2916. Website.
Metro Monthly is a local news and events magazine based in Youngstown, Ohio. We circulate throughout the Youngstown/Warren Mahoning Valley region (and beyond) with print, online and flipbook editions. Be sure to visit our website for news, features, restaurants, local history and essential Valley events. We offer print and website advertising. Office: 330-717-8785.
© 2026 Metro Monthly. All rights reserved.
