Current Job: State Representative for the Ohio 68th House District; Associate, Williams, Welser, Kratcoski and Can, LLC
How did you get your current job? In my first run for elective office, I was elected state representative to the Ohio General Assembly by the voters of the 68th House District, which serves northern and southeastern Portage County. I am the youngest elected woman in the Ohio General Assembly and have been appointed to the House Finance & Appropriations, State Government & Elections, and Agriculture & Natural Resources Committees.
What’s a typical day like for you? It has been a wild ride these past six months as a State Representative in a state facing severe budget shortfalls and a change in leadership and direction. I’ve spent most weeks in Columbus, attending all-day floor sessions, as well as caucus and committee meetings, casting my vote on very complex issues. I squeeze in other meetings with constituents, staff members, interest groups and lobbyists — and often don’t get home until 10 or 11 p.m. I try to spend a couple of days a week in my district, holding Town Hall gatherings and working one-on-one with the people I represent. During the summer recess, I’ve also been working at the Kent firm of Williams, Welser, Kratcoski and Can, L.L.C., where I am an associate attorney.
What is the best part of your new job? As a state legislator, I’m the voice for nearly 130,000 Ohioans who live in my district. I’m their eyes and ears; I’m their heart; and I’m their conscience. As I carefully pore over hundreds of bills and cast my vote on their behalf, I take that responsibility very seriously — and I’ve relished the opportunity.