6-10 years

Mr. Cuzzi launched Prospect Hill Strategies in 2012. Today, David brings over two decades of experience to benefit some of New Hampshire's largest and smallest companies. The results achieved in both New Hampshire and Washington, DC for a diverse client roster demonstrate the Firm's ability to provide full service public affairs and government relations solutions to organizations with varying needs across a range of industries.

David previously worked for BAE Systems' Electronic Systems sector and its legacy businesses in Nashua, NH, in the roles of Manager, Business Development and Director, Government Relations. As a Business Development Manager, he led the strategy, resource planning, and execution of efforts to maintain core business and capture new business for a product line with annual sales of $240 million, including one of the company's most important programs. As Government Relations Director, David was responsible for advocacy at the federal, state and local levels for the Nashua, NH-based sector, which then employed 9,000 people at 16 sites across 7 states, with annual sales of $3.5 billion.

Prior to joining BAE Systems, David served as a top aide to then-U.S. Senator John E. Sununu (R-NH) on Capitol Hill, advising the Senator on National Security, Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Veterans' matters, and all issues pertinent to the Senator's service on the Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committee. Mr. Cuzzi played a critical role in reversing the Department of Defense's recommendation to close the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in the 2005, and was a key negotiator in the drafting and passage of legislation reauthorizing the USA PATRIOT ACT in 2006 and 2007, and reforming the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States in 2007.

Mr. Cuzzi also served in New Hampshire and Washington, DC as an aide for two members of the U.S. House of Representatives, handling a wide portfolio of issues, including all committee work for a member of the Appropriations Committee. His other career assignments include posts with Podesta Associates in Washington, DC, Putnam Investments in Andover, MA, Bob Dole's 1996 New Hampshire Presidential Primary campaign, and the National Restaurant Association in Washington, DC.

David was born and raised in Waltham, MA. He is a graduate of St. Anselm College, and lives in Bedford, NH with his wife, Christina, and their twin boys. An avid sports fan and golfer, Mr. Cuzzi is active in business and civic organizations. He is honored to serve on the following Boards of Directors: Elliot Health System, McAuliffe-Sheppard Discovery Center, NH Scholars, NH Research and Industry Council, Rivier University President's Circle, and the New Hampshire Advisory Committee of the U.S. Global Leadership Council. David is Chair of the New Hampshire State Society's annual Educational Opportunity Fund golf tournament, and was an appointed member of the of the NH Telecommunications Planning and Development Advisory Committee, and Board Vice-Chair of the Manchester Community Health Center.

20+ years

A New Hampshire native, Henry began his government affairs career with a small lobbying firm after graduating as a political science major from the University of New Hampshire in 1986.

He next moved to the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire, representing the interests of its more than 400 member-businesses and staffing its highly respected environmental affairs and energy and regulated utilities committees. He transitioned back to private practice in 1999, eventually becoming a partner in Sheehan Phinney Capitol Group.

Henry is a highly respected and well-liked lobbyist with three-and-a-half decades of experience. He currently represents clients in the lodging and restaurant industry, healthcare providers, solid waste management industry, life insurers, automobile part vendors and nonprofit organizations.

Henry is chairman of the board of directors for Crotched Mountain Foundation and the Capital Regional Development Council. He is a past chairman of the board of the Concord Family YMCA.

0-5 years

Insider NJ Rising Generations Power List

Insider NJ Top 100 Lobbyist List for 2024 & 2025

Prior to joining PSI, I served as a legislative aide and Chief of Staff to multiple New Jersey legislators, giving me a broad network of relationships with legislators and legislative staff across the state. I also served in the Governor's Administration, where I gained an in-depth understanding of the inner workings of state government and the most effective strategies for navigating an administration and advancing client priorities.

Samantha Bender joined Public Strategies Impact (PSI) in 2023. Before joining PSI, she served for two years as a Senior Legislative Aide in Governor Phil Murphy's administration, where she developed expertise in education, higher education, transportation, and criminal justice policy. In this role, she supported the administration's legislative agenda and helped advance key legislative initiatives. She also served as the Governor's Legislative Affairs liaison to a bipartisan delegation of South Jersey legislators.

Prior to her work in the Governor's Office, Bender served on the staffs of Senator Bob Andrzejczak, Assemblyman Bill Moen, and Assemblywoman Carol Murphy. Through these roles, she gained experience across a broad range of policy areas, including agriculture, tourism, and consumer protection, while developing a strong understanding of New Jersey's legislative process.

As a lifelong New Jersey resident, Bender grew up in Cape May and currently resides in Camden County. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Rider University in 2018.

Edgar Castro's core business is government affairs, community relations, and lobbying in Miami-Dade County and Tallahassee, Florida. As an expert in the public policy process at the municipal, county, and state levels, Edgar assists his clients in navigating their way through the ever-increasing maze of legislative and regulatory challenges to achieve their goals and objectives.

Edgar has successfully advocated for issues addressing the needs of businesses, trade associations, municipalities, and the Florida Bar before Florida's executive and legislative branches, administrative and regulatory agencies, Miami-Dade County, and a number of the municipalities therein. Edgar's clients rely on him to develop and implement offensive and defensive political strategies to successfully negotiate legislative provisions on their behalf. Edgar has advocated for his clients on issues relating to transportation, family law, gaming, telecommunications, financial services, emergency management, intellectual property, and energy. Additionally, Edgar assists his clients with their relationships within the Hispanic community by developing a strategic plan of engagement, while also facilitating access to important elected leaders and stakeholders in the Hispanic community.

Edgar began his political career in Tallahassee, working in the Governor's Office as a Legislative Assistant, for the Florida House of Representatives. Edgar's experience in this role taught him the intricacies of the legislative processes and committee procedures, helping him build strong ties to staff and members of both chambers and parties. Throughout his career, Edgar has worked on numerous political campaigns in Florida, including candidates in the U.S. House and Senate, Florida House of Representatives and Senate, and the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners.

In addition to his experiences in Tallahassee, Edgar worked in Washington, DC as a public policy consultant for a government relations and consulting company. There, Edgar was responsible for researching and analyzing Florida and federal legislative actions and making recommendations to help clients effectively respond to governmental opportunities while avoiding potential risks.

6-10 years

Simon joined Sheehan Phinney Capitol Group in 2015 after serving for 10 years as a staff member for two New Hampshire U.S. Senators, John E. Sununu and Kelly Ayotte.

During Simon's tenure as a senate staffer, he worked on many in-state issues, which led to him developing meaningful relationships throughout the state and in state government that now provide our clients with a deep network to address concerns.

Since joining the firm, Simon has been involved in many key legislative issues at the State House. With his experience in public service, commitment to his clients, and the respect he has built on both sides of the aisle, Simon has become a go-to advocate who has served Capitol Group's clients well.

Simon was raised in a political family. His grandfather, Meldrim Thomson Jr., served three terms as governor of New Hampshire in the 1970s and his mother served three terms as a state representative.

As a third generation participant in New Hampshire's political process, Simon has developed his own network of elected officials and state agency staff members, which gives him insight on the innerworkings of the State House and throughout state government.

Simon, his wife Liz, and their two sons live in Merrimack, N.H. where he has served as a member of the town's Conservation Commission. He currently serves on the board of directors of the Greater Nashua YMCA and was recently installed as an incorporator with Franklin Savings Bank.

Jim Monahan has a strong and established public affairs practice that focuses on representing businesses, trade associations and non-profit organizations before state and national governmental agencies. This work includes an emphasis on policy development, legislative advocacy and effective communications.

Jim's professional focus includes energy, transportation and environmental issues. He does work in the healthcare field, with an emphasis on Medicaid policy. In addition, Jim oversees the Dupont Group public relations division White Birch Communications Group.

Jim was elected as Merrimack County Treasurer in the Fall of 2008 and served one term. Currently, he serves on the Concord Zoning Board of Adjustment. Jim is well known for providing news media analysis on topics of politics and public policy. Formerly, Jim was a member of the Independent System Operator (ISO) New England Board Advisory Committee, and a contributing editor to the political website Primary Diner.

15-20 years

Recognized by the Central Penn Business Journal, Forty Under 40

Recognized by Susquehanna Style, Women in Leadership

Pennsylvania Association for Government Relations
Women in Pennsylvania Government Relations
Anne B. Anstine Excellence in Public Service Series, Class of 2008
Past Chair, Board of Directors, American Red Cross, Central PA Chapter
Leadership Harrisburg Area Executive Program, Class of 2016
Founder and Former Co-Chair, Dickinson College Alumni Association for Central Pennsylvania
Board member, Keystone Human Services Partnership Board
Board member, D.R.E.A.M. Partnership,
Associate Board member, Members 1st FCU

Angela Leopold is a Senior Partner of Novak Strategic Advisors. A savvy businesswoman and an accomplished community leader, Angela knows people and gets results. At NSA, Angela directs top to bottom grassroots campaigns, earned and social media strategies, and coalition building activities. For the past 15 years, she has worked on state and national issues such as healthcare, taxation, and energy. Angela co-leads the Issue Advocacy division at Novak and oversees several of Novak’s government affairs clients as well.

Early in her career as a political fundraiser, Angela developed creative, direct approaches to navigating grassroots campaigns that included issue-based forums, consensus building, and reputation management. Today, she utilizes this experience and continues to cultivate her well-established relationships and strong, broad-based coalition networks. Angela has successfully managed several local races drawing on her impressive organizational skills and ability to mobilize grassroots armies at the local level. From circulating petitions to building relationships with local business and community leaders, Angela leveraged her connections in creative ways, which ultimately led her candidates to victory in these local elections.

Angela is the past board chair of the Central PA Chapter of the American Red Cross, and in 2016 graduated from the Leadership Harrisburg Area Executive program. When Angela is not pulling it all together at work, she is pulling together ways to support nonprofits, including the Midwest Food Bank, D.R.E.A.M. Partnership, and Keystone Human Services (Partnership Board). In 2021, Angela was recognized as a 40 Under 40 Leader by the Central Penn Business Journal as well as Women in Business 2021 issue in Susquehanna Style.

Angela is a graduate of Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Angela lives in Mechanicsburg with her husband, Joe, and son, Mark.

11-15 years

I am selected as a top administrative law attorney in Concord NH by Super Lawyers with a Rising Stars designation for 2017-2021.

I have extensive experience before the NH Banking Department.

I am an appointed member of the NH Supreme Court's Access to Justice Commission.

I am a lawyer/lobbyist and current president of Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell, P.C.. My experiences as an advocate span all levels of NH state government, ranging from the State House halls to the courts.

11-15 years

John has over 45 years of experience working as a corporate CEO and government agency administrator. John served in the administrations of three United States Presidents. He served as State Executive Director of the North Carolina Farm Service Agency from 1981 to 1992, under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. In April 2001, John was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as the State Director of USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture) Rural Development for North Carolina.

6-10 years

Kate has a strong background in public policy and brings over fifteen years of government experience to the Dupont Group. She has served on the staffs of US Congressman Charles F. Bass, US Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart, US Senator John E. Sununu and US Senator Kelly A. Ayotte. Kate also served as the Political Director for the New Hampshire Republican State Party's House PAC in 2010. She has also spent time in the private sector, focusing on the communications and marketing fields and aiding candidates in message development, presentation and design. Kate's professional focus includes communications, energy and health care. Additionally, she works with the Dupont Group public relations division White Birch Communications Group where she manages the firm's public policy conferences. Kate is currently an adjunct faculty member at New England College Graduate Programs and Granite State College.

Kate hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Anselm College and a Master of Science in Political Science with a concentration in Professional Politics from Suffolk University. Kate serves as the co-chair of the New Hampshire State Society Annual Golf Tournament, which benefits the group's Education Stipend Fund, providing stipends to NH College students pursuing internships in Washington DC. Kate also serves as Secretary on the Manchester Development Corporation Board, which is a 501 (C)(4) non-profit development corporation that supports the economic development initiatives of the City under the direction of the Board of Mayor & Aldermen and is a member of the Board of Speedway Children's Charities. She also serves as the Executive Director for the NH Association of Counties and is a member of the board of the National Council of County Association Executives.

Kirsten Koch joined Cornerstone's Concord team in October 2024, serving as Vice President to assist with executing strategic client initiatives and helping them cultivate strong relationships throughout the state.

Kirsten came to the firm following her time at the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire (BIA) most recently serving as Vice President of Public Policy. In this role, Kirsten advised the public policy team, driving proactive advocacy efforts and overseeing the policy development process among BIA members. She regularly testified before the state legislature representing the business community on a variety of energy and environmental issues. Kirsten successfully advocated changes to make New Hampshire a more competitive state for doing business, including spearheading key policy initiatives to streamline permitting processes and drive the development of local energy sources. She also directed BIA's largest coalition of businesses while producing educational conferences for the organization.

Before her time at BIA, Kirsten worked as a Legislative Aide for the New Hampshire State Senate, gaining an in-depth understanding of the legislative process and building strong relationships with legislators and state agencies. She served as the aide to the Health and Human Services Committee and the Transportation Committee. Additionally, Kirsten served as Strategic Initiatives Director for the New Hampshire Republican State Committee, leading grassroots initiatives and managing statewide coalitions for federal, state and local elections.

Kirsten is proud to be a lifelong Granite Stater. She holds a bachelor's degree in political science with a law minor from Plymouth State University, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.

20+ years

Listed as one of New Hampshire's top twenty most effective lobbyists by Business New Hampshire magazine. Recognized in the Union Leader, New Hampshire's only state-wide newspaper in 40 Under Forty, described as "40 up and coming people, all under the age of 40, who are making a difference in our state."

Curtis served as Senior Legislative Assistant to the New Hampshire House Majority Leader and as Legislative Assistant to the Senate Majority Leader prior to his lobbying career. He established and maintained a practice in government relations representing four professional/trade associations and a pari-mutuel facility, and served as Executive Director of the New Hampshire High Technology Council before joining a larger firm for 18 years where he eventually become a partner. He was listed as one of New Hampshire's top twenty most effective lobbyists in 1996 at the age of 33, by Business New Hampshire magazine. In 2003, Curtis was recognized in the Union Leader, New Hampshire's only state-wide newspaper, as one of that year's 40 Under Forty, described as "40 up and coming people, all under the age of 40, who are making a difference in our state." Curtis has been closely involved in New Hampshire state politics for over 30 years, including being chosen as a Delegate to the 2008 Republican National Convention. In the past, he has served in senior campaign staff positions for two Presidential Primary campaigns, two New Hampshire Congressional campaigns and a governor's race, and has been an advisor to several successful state Senate campaigns. He has also been an analyst on the New Hampshire Primary for CBS radio network and a number of radio talk shows across the country. Curtis also appeared as a regular pundit on the political website Primary Diner. One of his articles, NH Primary for Dummies, was featured on ABCNews.com. Curtis has coached youth baseball and softball, and served as New Hampshire District Two Commissioner for Babe Ruth Softball and has been a Director, many years as President, of the Concord Baseball Association, Inc., a charitable non-profit corporation. In that capacity, he led the effort to bring a team in the New England Collegiate Baseball League, the Concord Quarry Dogs, to Concord and was involved in two Babe Ruth League baseball World Series hosted in Concord. He was also a founding member of the Concord CrimeLine.

Nathan Honaker is a licensed North Carolina attorney and serves as General Counsel to Connect C providing insight in legislative matters. He has several years of experience in legislative affairs, lobbying and healthcare. Nathan is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and the University of North Carolina School of Law. During college, Nathan had internships with several legislators in the State House of Representatives and the State Senate. After completing his undergraduate degree, he worked for Sen. Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate, in communications and as a law clerk. During law school, Nathan worked for several lobbyists as a research assistant and policy advisor, as well as working with the State Health Plan and the University of North Carolina System.

Mike Vlacich brings over 25 years of experience in public policy, administration and government at every level to open Cornerstone's Concord, New Hampshire office.

He joins the firm following his time at the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), where he was appointed by President Biden to the role of regional administrator. He was responsible for overseeing SBA programs, offices and operations in the SBA's New England region which serves Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont.

Prior to this role, Mike held several positions in the Office of Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) with the latest being senior advisor. He provided support to the Senator, Chief of Staff, Legislative Director, State Director, scheduling department and Communications Director on policy, communications and other strategic imperatives. He also held key roles in Sen. Maggie Hassan's office (D-NH) and Gov. John Lynch's office as director of the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development.

Along with his government involvement, Mike was president and CEO of a higher education trade association, the New Hampshire College and University Council, a member of the University System of NH Board of Trustees, UNH Alumni Association Board, the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority, NH EPSCoR Statewide Committee, New Hampshire Small Business Development Council Advisory Committee, New Hampshire Workforce Opportunity Council and the Governor's Save Our Shipyard Commission.

He has received the New Hampshire Business Review Business Excellence Award. He also earned the New Hampshire Department of Resources and Economic Development Award for Excellence, the Business and Industry Association of New Hampshire's Above and Beyond Award and was ranked on the Business NH Influencer Index.

Mike received his bachelor's in political science from the University of New Hampshire.

0-5 years

Successful design and implementation of a modernized tax processing system for New Jersey.

Established partnerships with vendor community for handling and preparing 1.6 million paper
tax returns.

Developed a modernized data entry platform for tax and remittance processing.

Created a full disaster recovery and business continuity system for Treasury operations.

Deployed a fully functional e-procurement system for New Jersey.

Contracted the State's institutional footprint saving millions of dollars annually.

Maintain professional relationships with critical policymakers and operational staff in various State departments such as Treasury, Human Services and the Office of Information Technology.

Christopher Trappe served in New Jersey State government for 34 years. Starting as a writer in Governor Tom Kean's Office of Constituent Relations, he moved on to run the New Jersey General Assembly's 34th Legislative District Office for seven years and later moved to the Department of the Treasury. Trappe's Treasury service includes a decade as Chief of Staff at the Division of Revenue and Enterprise Services, a seven-year stretch as head of the Division of Taxation's Management Services and six years as Program Manager for the Division of Purchase and Property's NJSTART procurement system

Trappe has developed an expertise in technology systems and procurement. While at Treasury, he played a key role in the modernization of the State's tax and remittance processing systems, infrastructure modernization, network upgrade and desktop support efficiency efforts. Trappe also shepherded the full activation of the State's e-procurement system, in use by all state agencies.

Additionally, Trappe was responsible for managing the Statewide debt collection program known as SOIL and the Statewide Motor Vehicle Surcharge program.

A graduate of Rutgers University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, Trappe was inducted into Phi Alpha Theta National Honor Society for History and earned distinction completing the Henry Rutgers Honors program.

20+ years

James M. Demers is the founder of The Demers Group and Demers, Blaisdell Inc., he presently serves as President & CEO of Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol Inc. Mr. Demers is a former member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives and former congressional candidate. He has over 40 years of experience in the legislative, regulatory and political fields. He has been a political commentator for numerous media outlets including ABC News, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News as well as NH news stations WMUR-TV, WBIN-TV and New England Cable News. He has been actively involved in advising presidential campaigns, serving as co-chairman of President Barack Obama's NH campaign in 2008. He presently serves on the advisory board of the NH Institute of Politics at St. Anselm College, chairman of the NH International Trade Advisory Commission and he is a "political insider" for Politico and the National Journal. He was nominated by President Obama and confirmed by the US Senate to serve on the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Investment Corporation, which is the country's development financial institution. He has been recognized by numerous state and national publications as one of New Hampshire's "most influential" and "most powerful" people. He is a graduate of the University of Miami (FL) and he holds an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. He served three terms in the NH House where he served as the Assistant Minority Whip. He has also served as President and Executive Director of the New England-New York-New Jersey Financial Services Association and the National Card Coalition after doing corporate government affairs work for two national financial services companies. He is a resident of Concord, NH.

20+ years

Prior to a 15 plus year stint at a Concord based law firm, I served as an assistant to former Manchester Mayor Raymond Wieczorek, where the duties included constituent services and policy planning.

I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Politics from St. Anselm College, and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from the University of New Hampshire. Prior community involvement includes participation on board of directors for the American Red Cross of New Hampshire, the Manchester Development Corporation, the City of Manchester's Conduct Board, Moore Center Services, and coaching various youth sports.

20+ years

Helped the New Jersey Staffing Alliance get recognized by their national organization as the number one state in the country as it pertains to government affairs and legislative advocacy. (2015)

Grew the New Jersey Associated Builders and Contractors apprenticeship training program thru legislation, they are now the biggest state chapter in the country vs the 68 other chapters nationwide.

Thru regulations and legislation helped secure and develop training and accreditation in ethics for the New Jersey Society of Professional Engineers.

I started as a legislative staff person in 1997 staffing various committees, Labor, Regulated professions, working on the Budget committee as well. Starting as staff person you understand the nuances of the legislative process. Taking an idea or a change in current law is common place. Currently working with Chairs of committees, introducing them to clients, explaining the change or new law we want to develop is a process we do on a regular basis, then moving forward on the concept to get it across the finish line.

Patrick Stewart worked in the state legislature for the Assembly Republican Majority office. During this time, he worked closely with legislators, forming policy, and helping educate assembly members on important issues. Stewart was responsible for staffing many assembly committees, including the budget, consumer affairs, regulated professions, and labor committees.

Patrick served as principal policy advisor to the Republican Majority Leadership and caucus on economic development, changing financial issues with the state budget and relaying needs from the business community.

Since 2001, Stewart has worked on a broad range of issues for his clients. Working with larger and smaller clients, he uses his working knowledge of the legislature, state departments, and the Governor's office to achieve the goal of the client.

He has developed a strong working knowledge of the insurance industry and labor arena, specifically dealing with workers compensation issues. Stewart handled other diverse clients in the pharmaceutical industry, manufacturing sector and temporary staffing industry.

Patrick is a 1996 graduate of Villanova University, where he earned his degree in political science.

20+ years

Presented and moderated panels at the New Hampshire Business and Industry Association's annual energy symposiums.

Presented at Northeast Energy and Commerce Association's "Hot Topics in 2024 New England Public Policy Webinar."

Recipient of the New Hampshire Business and Industry Association's 2005 "Above and Beyond" award.

I appear before the New Hampshire Legislature, state agencies (e.g., the Department of Energy, Department of Health and Human Services, and the Department of Insurance) and boards (e.g., Prescription Drug Affordability Board) for public hearings, work sessions, testimony, and presentations.

I am a government and regulatory affairs professional with 24 years of experience representing clients before the New Hampshire General Court and Executive Branch agencies. I work collaboratively with clients and colleagues to develop, implement, and adapt strategies for communicating, negotiating, and promoting public policies that advance client goals.

I maintain positive working relationships and open dialogues with state officials, stakeholders, and client team members as I advocate for client positions. I am a trusted and respected source of information and appear before the New Hampshire Legislature, state agencies, and boards for public hearings, work sessions, testimony, and presentations. I have worked on public policy issues and legislative and regulatory matters related to energy, environment, health care, elder law, transportation, business strategies, and economic and market analyses.

Prior to working in the government relations field, I was an energy policy analyst in the New Hampshire Governor's Office of Energy and Community Services, where I helped advocate for the Governor's preferred policies on electric industry restructuring.

20+ years

Forty Under 40 (2004) Recognition by statewide newspaper of those under 40 making an impact in NH.

President's Award - NH Dental Society (2011)

Extra Mile Award (2014) NH Manufactured & Modular Housing Association

15-20 years

Joshua Hodes, Partner, has more than 15 years' experience representing various clients before the legislative and executive branches of New Jersey Government. During his career, Josh has represented a diverse client base ranging from Fortune 100 companies to New Jersey based nonprofits. At Public Strategies Impact, he is responsible for a broad range of issues, including education, energy, healthcare, and redevelopment work. Josh prides himself on his strong relationships with his clients, which enables him to become the most effective advocate on their behalf.

Previously, Josh served as Chief of Staff to the Assembly Majority Leader and as senior staff member of the Assembly Majority Office, advising the Assembly Democratic Caucus on public policy initiatives. As a former legislative staffer, Josh brings his experiences and knowledge of the statehouse to his daily advocacy work. Prior to joining the Assembly Majority Office, Josh served as an associate in government relations at Public Strategies Impact.

Josh is active in local, state, and national politics. In 2008, he served as a political advisor to the Hillary Clinton for President Campaign in New Jersey and was a member of the NJ Delegation at the 2008 Democratic National Convention in Denver, Colorado. Josh also served on the New Jersey Democratic State Committee's Committee on Vacancies, which was responsible for selecting the New Jersey Electoral College members.

In 2016, Josh served as a member of the National Rules Committee for the Democratic National Committee in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Josh has served as a gubernatorial appointment to the New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority since 2010. He currently serves as Chairman for the Authority.

Josh received his bachelor's degree from Rutgers College and a Master's in Labor and Employment Relations from Rutgers University.

Maura Weston brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in political and legislative advocacy to our Concord office.

Maura previously served as President and Founder of MM Weston & Associates. With extensive experience representing a wide range of clients before the New Hampshire legislature and regulatory agencies, she specializes in crafting and executing both short- and long-term legislative strategies, drafting testimony and working closely with policymakers to advance client interests. After founding her own government relations practice, Maura successfully represented clients in key sectors such as telecommunications, healthcare, energy and contract procurement.

Her notable achievements include advocating for the deregulation of VoIP services, reforming wireless facility siting processes and advancing net energy metering laws to expand renewable energy markets. Maura has also played a pivotal role in creating new healthcare legislation for collaborative practice agreements and helped invalidate restrictive covenants in physician employment contracts.

Prior to founding MM Weston & Associates in 2006, Maura was a Partner at Rath, Young, and Pignatelli, where she honed her expertise in government relations. Earlier in her career, she worked as an Associate Attorney and Law Clerk at the same firm.

Maura holds a Juris Doctor from the University of New Hampshire School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of New Hampshire. In addition, she is an active member of the American Bar Association and New Hampshire Bar Association and became the sole New Hampshire member of the National League of Women Lobbyists.

Title - Managing Partner

Roger Bodman is widely respected for his depth of knowledge of state government and politics. He has served in gubernatorial cabinet posts, guided presidential campaigns in New Jersey, and appeared as a political commentator for NJTV, formerly New Jersey Network, for 4 decades.

Early in his career, Bodman served as district office manager for the late New Jersey Congresswoman Millicent Fenwick and as chief of staff for former New Jersey Congressman James Courter. In 1981, he was selected as manager of Tom Kean's campaign for governor. Following Governor Kean's victory, Bodman was named to two cabinet posts. As the State Commissioner of Labor, he implemented extensive legislative reforms of the unemployment insurance program. Later, as the State Commissioner of Transportation, he was the chief advisor to the governor on transportation matters. He also served as chairman of New Jersey Transit.

In 1987, Bodman was appointed by the governor to chair the Study Commission on Regulatory Efficiency, a role that earned him the Alliance for Action's Eagle Award. In 1988, he served as vice chairman of the New Jersey Bush for President committee.

A native of Bernardsville, New Jersey, Bodman graduated cum laude from Ohio University in 1974 with a degree in political science. Bodman was also a visiting professor at Rutgers University's Eagleton Institute of Politics.

20+ years

Matthew Halpin joined Public Strategies Impact in 2001 after serving as manager of government relations for the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. There, Matt was responsible for issue areas that included economic development, international trade, and corporate taxation. Coming from a large association, Mr. Halpin brings management skills as the head of the firm's association management division.

Matt's lobbying efforts at PSI span a variety of business issues for corporate clients and several trade associations. He is well known for his ability to handle complex issues and to deftly strategize on behalf of his clients. Matt brings a unique set of skills that allow him to not only be his client's eyes and ears in the Capital, but he also prides himself on being well-versed in the intricacies of his clients' interests so as to be an effective advocate.

Beyond traditional lobbying, Matt has also enjoyed participating on corporate teams to help manage the public affairs components of the overall project. Additionally, Matt contributes to our association management practice by serving as Executive Director for the NJ Society of Municipal Engineers, the American Institute of Architects of NJ, and the NJ Academy of Ophthalmology. Further, he has successfully completed numerous strategic planning sessions for both our corporate and association clients.

Mr. Halpin received a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) from the Rutgers Business School with a concentration in Finance. He also has a bachelor's degree in political science and economics from Rutgers College and is an associate of the Eagleton Institute of Politics.

Thomas Prasol serves as the Managing Director for Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol Inc. He has been providing strategy, lobbying, and association management for clients since 2011. He brings a myriad of experience in State and Federal government beginning his professional career as a Project Assistant to U.S. Senator Judd Gregg and as Policy and Field Coordinator for several State and Federal campaigns. In 2008 he transitioned to the position of Project Director for Senator Gregg where he handled federal appropriations in the areas of first responders. Upon Senator Gregg's retirement, he moved to the New Hampshire State Senate where he was a Legislative Aide to the Senate Education Committee. With his experience in federal and state government, Mr. Prasol brings another dimension to the firm in areas of strategy, management of special projects, and government affairs implementation. He continues to bring his experience and knowledge to assist State and Federal campaigns with strategy and policy research. In addition to his work for Demers, Blaisdell & Prasol, he serves on the Town Planning Board and has previously served as Chair of the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board in his local community He received his Bachelor's degree in Politics from Saint Anselm College where he served as an Ambassador to the New Hampshire Institute of Politics, and his Master's degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University. He currently resides in Hooksett, NH with his fiance' Maria and two dogs Zeus and Tyson.

15-20 years

For many years I have been recognized by The Best Lawyers in America and Super Lawyers for my work in real estate law and land use and zoning law and litigation. I was also among the New Hampshire Union Leader's 2012 "40 Under 40" class and among NH Business Review's New Hampshire 200 which spotlights the 200 most influential business leaders in the Granite State's private sector.

I am a commissioner and past-chairman of the board of commissioners of the Concord Housing and Redevelopment Authority. I also sit on the Executive Committee of the Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce, am a current Director, and have served as Chairman of its Government Affairs Committee. I was a member of Concord 2020, a community advisory group dedicated to improving the workability and livability of the City of Concord, NH.

Through the firm, I am a past chairman and former member of the National Association of Home Builders. I served on the National Association of Home Builders Legal Action Committee.

I represent business, construction, land use development, and environmental clients on a variety of legislative, regulatory, and litigation matters. I represented the New Hampshire Home Builders Association on the question of residential fire sprinkler legislation, crafting amendments to New Hampshire's residential construction and fire safety codes, and in negotiating amendments to the State Comprehensive Shoreland Protection Act. I also managed the negotiation and closing of several commercial asset sales and purchases while leading the processing of various state and municipal development, environmental, and excavation permit applications.

6-10 years

Built a proven record of winning tough floor fights in New Hampshire's 400-member House of Representatives on a myriad of issues.

I've stopped harmful committee recommendations, overturned committee votes, adopted emergency floor amendments, used creative solutions to stop legislation from advancing, and scripted floor fights and debates for members.

Passed the region's most aggressive biodiesel production credit into law and guided the state's largest biodiesel producer through the entirety of the process from drafting to rulemaking. I then advocated for loosening of regulations on the use of biodiesel by large energy consumers and the state government to further increase the client's potential revenues.

As a freshman lobbyist, I was named "Rookie of the Year" by my colleagues.

I worked with a coalition of healthcare providers and lobbyists to stop a workers' compensation fee schedule. Our efforts successfully overturned the House Labor committee's recommendation on the House floor to pass the coalition's desired floor amendment which was signed into law. The client's amendment has since lowered worker's compensation costs by ~10% and did so without a fee schedule.

I have guided clients through successful issue advocacy campaigns during the First in the Nation primary. Deliverables involved getting Presidential candidates on the record, one-on-one meetings with candidates or senior level staff, grassroots organizing, event planning, press opportunities, and earned media for the client.

Served as the State Director to the New Hampshire Energy Forum where I provided grass tops lobbying and communications consulting to one of the nation's largest energy trade associations; I was instrumental in successfully changing Federal laws and Executive guidelines surrounding ozone and air quality regulations, energy exports, and energy infrastructure.

Provided strategic communications consulting for state legislators and stakeholders to lobby New Hampshire's Federal delegation to change mandates in the Affordable Care Act on behalf of a coalition of insurance providers. Our coalition was victorious in these efforts.

I've worked as a political & fundraising consultant to numerous State Senators, Executive Councilors, State Representatives, and County officials.

Work Experience:
Government and Public Affairs Advisor, Preti Strategies, Concord, NH, December 2019 to Present
Government Relations Advisor, Dennehy & Bouley, Concord, NH, December 2014 to November 2019
New Hampshire Field Organizer, Republican National Committee, 2014
Bill Status Aide, New Hampshire State Senate Clerk's Office, 2013

Political Experience:
Republican Political & Fundraising Consultant for State Senators, Executive Councilors, State Representatives and County officials, 2014- Present
Vice Chairman- Region 2, New Hampshire Republican State Committee, 2017-2018
Voting Member, New Hampshire Republican State Committee, 2014-Current

Education:
University of New Hampshire, BA, Political Science

20+ years

I hold a Ph.D. in Economics from Johns Hopkins University.

I served on the commission established to achieve long-term viability of the New Hampshire Retirement System, and was appointed by two Governors to serve as the Chairperson of the Board of the New Hampshire Retirement System, an office I held for five years. I am a former member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston's New England Public Policy Center Advisory Board, and the Josiah Bartlett Center for Public Policy. I have also served on a number of legislatively-established study commissions, including electric utility property taxes and education funding.

I have a PhD in Economics and have been an economist at Gallagher, Callahan & Gartrell, in Concord, New Hampshire for more than 25 years.

I regularly testify before the New Hampshire Legislature on behalf of a range of business and non-profit clients. I work on matters before regulatory agencies and have appeared as an expert witness regarding fiscal and economic impacts of energy infrastructure projects. I have also authored studies and provided strategic advice on the effects of a statewide property tax, various business tax proposals, and public investments and infrastructure.

11-15 years

As the Director of Government Affairs, Catherine is NJ REALTORS chief lobbyist in Trenton, overseeing all aspects of the association's legislative and advocacy efforts. Prior to joining NJ REALTORS, Catherine served in the offices of several members of the New Jersey congressional delegation, most recently as District Director for U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer. A lifelong resident of New Jersey, Catherine lives in Metuchen with her husband and two children.

20+ years

As a top democratic strategist, William Maer is a well-respected lobbyist with a career spanning more than 30 years. He was appointed to Governor Sherrill's Interdisciplinary Advisory Task Force to advise the incoming Administration on State related polices. He served in several government positions, including aide to former Governor James Florio, chief of staff to the late Congressman William J. Pascrell, Jr., associate executive director of the Assembly Democratic Legislative Leadership Office, and senior advisor to Governor Jon S. Corzine and 2009 campaign. Maer was a leading Democratic political consultant, having worked on dozens of campaigns at virtually every level of New Jersey politics. Currently, Maer serves as chief spokesman for the Passaic County Sheriff and serves on the Democratic Governors Association National Finance Committee.

Appointed by three governors, Maer served on the New Jersey Building Authority, the Brookdale Community College Board of Trustees, and the Governor's Council to Prevent Disabilities. He also served o the Democratic National Committee (DNC) member of the credential committee for the 2016 Democratic National Committee Convention.

Maer received his bachelor's degree in government from Clark University in Massachusetts, and in 1990, he was granted a master's degree in political science from Villanova University. In the last two decades, he has appeared on every top power list, including:
PolitickerNJ's Power List
InsiderNJ Power List
New Jersey Globe Power List
NJ Cannabis Media's Cannabis Policy Insiders and the 2026 ROI NJ Government Affairs Influencers Power List.

Marc Goldberg joined Cornerstone in July 2023, expanding the firm's public affairs presence to New Hampshire and bringing 17 years of media and strategic communications experience to the Public Affairs team.

Previously, Marc served as chief of staff for the office of Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-NH) since 2016. In this role, he managed a team of nearly 50 staffers across the Senator's D.C. office, five state offices and subcommittee office through the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. Before that, he also served as Sen. Hassan's campaign manager as well as her communications director when she was New Hampshire's governor. Other communications roles include press secretary for former Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown and communications director for former Rep. Suzanne Kosmas (D-FL).

Marc has also served as the independent expenditure director for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. In this role he focused on running paid-media efforts across the committee's targeted states and building teams of TV, digital and polling consultants for each state.

Marc holds a bachelor's degree in political science with a concentration of American politics and a minor in psychology from the University of Pennsylvania.

6-10 years

2023 Meadowlands Chamber of Commerce 50 Under 30 Honoree

2022 Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore Phenomenal Woman Under 40

2019 New Jersey Business and Industry Association Rising Star Award

Included on several power lists including:
ROI-NJ ROI Influencers Women in Business
ROI-NJ ROI Influencers People of Color
InsiderNJ's Rising Generations
InsiderNJ's Women's Power
InsiderNJ's 100 Millennials

Alexis Bailey joined Public Strategies Impact in 2023 after serving as Vice President of Government Affairs for the New Jersey Business and Industry Association (NJBIA). While at NJBIA, she covered labor and employment, workforce development and insurance issues impacting the state's business community. Prior to joining NJBIA, Alexis worked as a Legislative Research Associate for the Kaufman Zita Group and as a Government Affairs and Communications Consultant for the New Jersey Public Charter Schools Association.

In addition to lobbying at PSI, Alexis contributes to our association management practice by serving as Executive Director for the Association of NJ Recyclers, NJ Cable and Internet Association, NJ State Society of Anesthesiologists, and NJ American Society of Landscape Architects.

Alexis has been recognized as a leader in New Jersey, being named to ROI-NJ's ROI Influencers: Women in Business, ROI Influencers: People of Color, InsiderNJ's Rising Generations, InsiderNJ's Women's Power, and InsiderNJ's 100 Millennials lists. Alexis was recognized as a 50 Under 30 Honoree by the Meadowland's Chamber of Commerce in 2023. She was also honored as a Phenomenal Woman Under 40 by the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore in 2022 and was named a Rising Star Award recipient by NJBIA in 2019. She graduated with summa cum laude honors from Rider University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

Alexis is involved in her community as a Member-At-Large of the Girl Scouts of the Jersey Shore's Board of Directors and a Board Member for the Women's Political Caucus of New Jersey. She served as a faculty in residence for the Center for American Women and Politics' NEW Leadership program in 2026. She previously served on the Toms River Zoning Board of Adjustments.

20+ years

Bruce is the founder of Sheehan Phinney Capitol Group. Having worked the halls and hearing rooms of the State House for more than 40 years, he is one of the most experienced lobbyists in Concord and has developed deep relationships with key policy makers.

Bruce began his work in state government in 1980 as a college intern and later served as a legislative assistant to the New Hampshire House Majority Leader. He began his lobbying career as the Legislative Counsel to the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire, the state's leading business advocacy organization.

Bruce has represented clients in a wide variety of policy issues during his career including taxation, environmental regulation, electric utility restructuring and health policy.

He has also been involved in political campaigns for the past 40 years and is a sought-after advisor to candidates during each election cycle.