11-15 years

Garin began her political career in Washington D.C. working for Senator Wayne Allard and ran the government affairs department at Colorado Farm Bureau before joining Colorado Legislative Services in 2007. She became partner in 2012 and steadfastly through her career, Garin has honed her policy knowledge on issues related to agriculture, including water and property rights. She also is highly skilled as a strategist for higher education, business, liquor, and state licensure issues.

Growing up on a ranch in southwest Colorado gave Garin a strong work ethic and her dedication to understanding an issue completely shows up when representing CLS clients. Her adeptness in many policy areas and direct manner of speaking means that she is a trusted resource for legislators on both sides of the aisle. She is regarded as a top water policy expert in Colorado and has been recognized for her work bolstering the Colorado business climate by working to align agriculture and energy-- two of the top five drivers of the Colorado economy--on a variety of issues. Garin was recognized as one of Colorado's "Top Women in Energy" by the Denver Business Journal in 2017.

She is a proud graduate of Colorado State University where she earned an Agricultural Business degree. Garin has completed Colorado Farm Bureau's Elite Leaders Academy, is a member of the Women's Energy Network of Colorado and has served on the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Program board and Butterfly Pavilion's Fund Development Committee.

In her free time, Garin cherishes time with her husband and two daughters, especially during trips to the mountains. She is an avid reader, sous-chef for her husband and wine connoisseur who frequents the Napa Valley.

0-5 years

John brings 24 years of strategic experience in shaping legislative, budgetary, and regulatory policy in the Commonwealth. He most recently served three terms as Pennsylvania State Senator for Senate District 14 in Carbon and Luzerne Counties, where he earned a reputation as a consensus-builder and accomplished notable community and economic development objectives. John was Chairman of the Senate Community and Economic Development Committee, Vice-Chairman of the Aging and Youth Committee and minority Chairman of the Senate Environmental and Energy Resource Committee, a role he held for nearly a decade. Prior to his election to the Senate, he served the 119th District in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for 12 years.

Across his senatorial tenure, John managed multiple community and economic development projects in Northeastern Pennsylvania that transformed the region into one of the leading economic development areas in the country. He forged coalitions with labor groups, such as the Pennsylvania State Building and Construction Trades Council, and business groups, including the Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association and the Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce, to advance the Local Resource Manufacturing Tax Credit, the Pennsylvania EDGE Tax Credit and the Sales and Use Tax Exemption for computer data center development.

John also worked with the Earth Conservancy to reclaim thousands of acres of mine-scarred lands and set the stage for national developers, like NorthPoint Development, who have invested $1 billion to create 8,000 new jobs in the South Valley of Luzerne County.

Throughout his career, he worked with Republicans and Democrats to author laws to support veterans (Sgt. Sherwood Baker Act), protect seniors (Senior Citizens Full Benefits Act), support law enforcement (Officer John Wilding Law), improve our environment (Coal Refuse Energy and Reclamation Tax Credit) and expand educational opportunities (SHINE Afterschool Program).

Affiliations
• The Pennsylvania Environmental Quality Board, Member, 2011-2019
• The Luzerne Foundation, Executive Board Member, 2001-2017
• The Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Executive Board Member, 2011-2015
• The Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, Executive Board Member, 2009-2010
• Osterhout Free Library, Director of Development, 1995-1998
• The Earth Conservancy, Board of Directors, 2022-Present
• The Pennsylvania Tuition Account Advisory Board, 2022-Present

Recognition
• Pennsylvania Citizens for Better Libraries Elected State Official of the Year
• Children's Service Center Commitment to Children Award
• North Branch Land Trust Community Stewardship Award
• Pennsylvania Health Care Association Legislative Champion
John is the founder of the Yudichak Family Lighthouse Fund of the Luzerne Foundation, a charity that has donated over $250,000 to public libraries, college scholarships, and youth programs.

Credentials
Education
• The Pennsylvania State University, M.A.
• The Pennsylvania State University, B.A.

6-10 years

R.G. led the redistricting analysis of Iowa congressional and legislative districts following the 2010 U.S. Census.

R.G. Schwarm is a member of BrownWinick's Government Relations team. R.G. maintains a full-time presence at the Iowa Capitol during the legislative session, representing multiple businesses and interests before the Iowa General Assembly, the Governor's Office, and state agencies.

R.G. previously served BrownWinick's lobbying team as the Public Affairs Manager from 2014-2017. Prior to joining BrownWinick, he worked in a variety of political positions at the local and state level, including managing a multi- million dollar casino referendum resulting in a landslide electoral victory and record voter turnout. His campaign organization experience includes developing winning strategies, executing multifaceted communication plans, coordinating public and media relations, and organizing volunteer efforts. In addition to serving as a campaign consultant, R.G. led the redistricting analysis of Iowa congressional and legislative districts following the 2010 U.S. Census.

R.G. graduated from Iowa State University with a Bachelor of Science degree, earning a double major in Business Management and International business along with a minor in Political Science. While at Drake University Law School, R.G. served as a legal intern for the Iowa Ethics & Campaign Disclosure Board where he assisted in drafting the board's advisory opinions, conducted legal research on state and local compliance policies, and investigated complaints of ethical violations by campaigns and elected officials. In 2020, R.G. received his Juris Doctor while earning a certificate in legislative practice.

15-20 years

Our team consists of lobbyists from around the state of New Mexico with a broad range of relationships with legislators, leaders, state office officials, and local officials. Our team has been carefully selected to ensure relationships with individuals on both sides of the aisle, and all age groups.

T.J. serves as a registered lobbyist for clients on state and local issues. In addition, T.J. is an attorney in New Mexico and practices government affairs law, administrative law, and litigation. T.J. graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance from the University of Arizona in 1995. Thereafter, he graduated with a Master of Business Administration from Western New Mexico University and Juris Doctor from the University of Arizona in 2000.

0-5 years

Awarded Order of the Long Leaf Pine

Dave has over 40 years leading non-profit and government healthcare organizations, including the last eight years leading the North Carolina's $20 billion Medicaid program. Prior to serving as deputy secretary for Medicaid, he was the deputy secretary for Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. Dave joined DHHS as director of the Division of Mental Health in 2013. Before joining the Department, he was executive director of several statewide chapters of The Arc, including The Arc of Delaware, Louisiana and North Carolina, where he led the advocacy and service delivery for people with disabilities.

Dave has worked for both Republican and Democrat administrations and was unanimously confirmed to his Medicaid position by the North Carolina General Assembly. During his tenure at North Carolina Medicaid, Dave led the program's transformation from fee for serve to managed care, supported the provider community through the COVID pandemic and successfully maintained a balanced budget throughout his service.

Dave has served on numerous state and national boards and committees, including the National Association of Medicaid Directors. He has presented to legislative and other governmental entities and to local, state and national meetings on health policy throughout his career.

6-10 years

Memberships & Associations:

West Des Moines City Council (At-Large) (2019-Present)

BRAVO of Greater Des Moines Board of Directors

ICON Water Trails Co-Chair

Polk County Bar Association Member

Iowa State Bar Association Member; Sections on: Business Law; Litigation; Government Practice Litigation Section Council (2012-present); Committee on Ethics and Practice Guidelines (2013-present)

State Law Resources (SLR) Board of Directors (2022-2023); Site Selection Committee

Republican Legislative Campaign Committee (RLCC) Finance Committee

Professionals for Charity Co-Founder, Director and Secretary

The United Way of Central Iowa Policy Cabinet

Metro Advisory Council

Iowa Legal Aid Foundation Governing Director (2010-2012)

West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Member; Board of Directors and Former Chair (2015-2019)

West Des Moines Due Diligence Committee (2017)

West Des Moines Leadership Academy Graduate (Class of 2012-2013); Alumni Marketing Committee Member

Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute - Graduate (Class of 2014-2015)

West Des Moines Historical Society Board of Directors (2015-2018)

West Des Moines Sister Cities Commission Appointed Member (2014-2016)

Arizona State Bar Association Member (2009-Present)

Arizona Small Business Association Board of Directors and Vice President-Elect (2009-2010)

Maricopa County Bar Association Corporate Counsel Division - Director and Treasurer (2009-2010)

I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a certificate in Entrepreneurship from the University of Iowa in 2004. Shortly thereafter, I received my J.D., cum laude, along with certificates of concentration in litigation, and criminal law and procedure from Creighton University School of Law in 2007. I was also the sole recipient of the David A. Svoboda Trial Advocacy award, recognizing excellence in trial advocacy.

I was admitted to the Iowa State Bar in 2007 and the State of Arizona in 2008. Additionally, I am admitted to practice law in Iowa Federal District Court (northern and southern divisions) as well as in Colorado Federal District Court.

It was a privilege to be elected to the West Des Moines City Council, in the at-large position, in 2019. I am an active member of the Iowa and Polk County Bar Associations, in addition to having served as a member of the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce Board and Executive Committee; the United Way of Central Iowa Policy Cabinet; BRAVO of Greater Des Moines, and the Metro Advisory Council ICON Water Trails. I am also a graduate of the West Des Moines Leadership Academy, the Greater Des Moines Leadership Institute, and Leadership Iowa. Finally, it was an honor to have Super Lawyers recognize me as a "Rising Star" in the area of Government Relations from 2017 - 2021.

11-15 years

James H. McFaddin comes to Southern Strategy Group from Health Management Associates (now Community Health Systems), a Fortune 500 hospital company with over 200 hospitals in 29 states, where he served as Director of Government Affairs. James was responsible for representing the company's interests in Washington, DC, state capitals including Tallahassee, and in front of state health care agencies and local governments.

Prior to joining Health Management Associates, James served as Chief of Staff for the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (Agency). As Chief of Staff, James was involved in the management and operations of the Agency including the Florida Medicaid Program, the regulation of Florida's health care facilities, and oversight of the Agency's $20 billion budget.

During this time, James was also appointed by the Governor to manage the state's federally-mandated health information exchange activities as Florida's Health Information Technology Coordinator.

Prior to being named Chief of Staff, James served as the Agency's Legislative Affairs Director.Before joining the Agency, James served as the Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs for the Executive Office of the Governor where he worked to develop and coordinate passage of the Governor's legislative and budget priorities.

James has also served as a Senior Analyst in the Florida Senate specializing in health care, criminal justice, and agricultural issues.

A native of South Carolina, James graduated from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, where he earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in Economics and Political Science.

KIM GOMES became a lobbyist in her own unique way. She did not get here through politics or law or a cause. Her earliest interests had nothing to do with lobbying. She was a gymnast and a competitor in ballroom dancing. That led to a degree from the University of Delaware in fitness management, and that led to a position at the University of Delaware as the coordinator in charge of the fitness class program on the campus. From there, it was on to work at an insurance office and brokerage firm, except Kim was looking for a new direction, and she thought lobbying would be fun.

Of course she did. She had a taste for the unexpected. She had the slow heartbeat that comes from winning competitiveness. She had a practical foundation of business, organizational and management experience.

Kim added in an academic component by earning a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Delaware. One of the faculty members was Ed Freel, formerly the Delaware secretary of state, and he connected her with Bob Byrd. It clicked, and Kim joined the firm.

Kim's background has been a fine fit, even her ballroom dancing. She paired with Tom Cook, who was the Delaware secretary of finance, for a charity "Dancing with the Stars" event, where they were judged the best dancers. See? Kim was right all along that lobbying could be fun.

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.

Matt Hinch brings over a decade of experience in state and federal government and as a well-respected campaign and political strategist. Most recently, Matt served as chief of staff to Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds, where he oversaw the day-to-day operations of the State of Iowa's executive branch and the Governor's office. In addition, he served as the chief policy and political advisor to the Governor leading successful legislative efforts to strengthen Iowa's infrastructure, improve workforce training and reduce student debt.

Prior to his role in the Governor's office, Hinch served as the senior vice president of government relations and public policy for the Greater Des Moines Partnership, Iowa's largest chamber of commerce representing 21 affiliate chambers throughout the State and 5,300 business members. While at the Partnership, Hinch developed the concept and spearheaded the successful passage of the Iowa Reinvestment Act, a creative funding strategy bringing $100 million in resources to spur development into Iowa communities. Hinch was also influential in building support for the largest property tax reduction for all classes of property in Iowa's history and the Governor's historic education reform initiative, which has been recognized nationally by education organizations and the U.S. Department of Education for its innovative Teacher Leadership and Compensation plan.

Previously, Hinch served as chief of staff to Iowa House Speaker Kraig Paulsen. As the top aide to Paulsen, Matt was instrumental in assisting the Speaker and the House Republican Caucus as they successfully worked to eliminate a $900 million budget shortfall.

Hinch also served as legislative director and campaign manager for Congressman Tom Latham. With Latham, Hinch managed the Congressman's legislative portfolio and his work on several House Appropriations subcommittees, assisting the Congressman in securing millions of dollars for his Iowa constituents. He also led two successful grassroots re-election efforts for Latham, including a 21-point victory in 2008.

Matt is involved in a variety of local community initiatives including the Every Student, Every Day, Dowling Catholic High School Annual Appeal. Matt is also an active member in the Iowa State Blue Ribbon Foundation, an organization that works to promote and enhance activities for Iowa youth at the world-renowned Iowa State Fair. Matt is a contributor to the University of Iowa Foundation and the University of Iowa Athletics Department.

Matt holds a B.A. in Communications, a minor in Political Science and a certificate in Entrepreneurship from the Henry Tippie College of Business, all at the University of Iowa. A native of Des Moines, Matt resides in West Des Moines with his wife and two children.

DOUGLAS STRUYK joined Carney Appleby P.L.C. as an associate in 2013. Doug is a native of Council Bluffs, Iowa, graduating from Saint Albert High School in 1988. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Iowa State University in 1992. Doug received his Juris Doctorate from Creighton University School of Law in 1996 with Cum Laude honors and was admitted to the Iowa Bar in June of 1996. He is also a past president of the National Association of Bar Executives' Government Relations Section.

After graduating from law school, Doug was Chief of the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship's Agricultural Diversification Bureau. After working at the Department of Agriculture, Doug returned home to manage his family's business, Struyk Turf, Ltd. In 2002, Doug was elected to the Iowa House representing Council Bluffs. During his time in the Iowa House, he was elected Assistant Minority Leader and was the Ranking Member of the House State Government Committee. He also served on the Judiciary, Economic Development, Commerce, and Agriculture Committees. Doug retired from the House 2010. In November of 2010, Doug was named Chief Legal Counsel to the Iowa Secretary of State's office. Doug also served as the office's senior legislative liaison. In May of 2012, he was selected by the Speaker of the House to serve as his Executive Officer, a position Doug held until joining Carney Appleby Law.

Doug has nearly two decades of government relations experience including time as a lawyer, lobbyist, and legislator. He has worked at the highest levels of both the executive and legislative branches of Iowa's government. Doug is well known at the Iowa Capitol as a skilled problem solver with a proven record of working with both parties to resolve controversial issues. He was a respected leader in the Iowa legislative process with a well-developed network and skill set.

15-20 years

Danna L. Kauffman, Esq. joined the firm in 2013 and became a partner in 2017. Throughout her career Danna has worked in various levels of State government and in the private sector. She has established a reputation as a problem solver and consensus builder who can handle complicated issues in a trusted and professional manner.

Beginning in 1997, Danna served as Counsel to the then House Environmental Matters Committee, working on complex health care issues, and then spent three years as a senior legislative advisor to Governor Glendening, where she worked on a wide range of issues in the areas of health, environment, civil rights and homeland security. Immediately prior to joining the Firm, Danna served as the Senior Vice President of Public Policy for LifeSpan Network, the leading senior care provider association in Maryland.

Raised in Howard County, Maryland, Danna holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from Towson University, where she graduated cum laude. In 1996, she graduated with honors from the University of Maryland School of Law, where she was an editor on the Maryland Law Review. Prior to entering State government service, Danna began her career as a litigation attorney at Smith, Somerville and Case, P.A. Danna resides in Annapolis with her husband and two children.

20+ years

With deep ties to Louisiana's political landscape, we bring a local perspective, but engage across state lines to help clients broaden their services across the nation.

15-20 years

Successfully secured recent state approval of the largest public and private partnership for a 45 block redevelopment in Detroit, including a world class event center and mixed use development, valued at $650 million;

Helped design and execute a successful strategy to expand early childhood funding, including $65 million in additional funding opportunities for 14,000 preschoolers to attend Great Start Readiness Program (GRSP);

Successfully achieved approval of KENO for the Michigan State Lottery, which has generated hundreds of millions of dollars into the school aid fund;

Recently negotiated an economic development package with the MEDC to allow for a $100 million expansion, creating 1,000 new jobs for a Mid-Michigan based client;

Played an instrumental role in reshaping debate and the political environment on behalf of a major business organization by helping pass key policy initiatives which include: major business tax restructuring and incorporating fiscal discipline and performance metrics;

Obtained Legislative authority for the start up of the Biosciences Research & Commercialization Center at Western Michigan University including $10 million in state start up funds, creating over 33 life science companies, 240 high tech jobs and leveraged an additional $160 million in private sector investment;
Helped negotiate an incentive package, on behalf of a large international IT company, with the State of Michigan to bring a unique global software development center to the campus of Michigan State University, creating over 500 jobs to date;

Effectively secured hundreds of millions of dollars in capital outlay projects for our university and community college clients;

Assisted several clients in successfully navigating through the procurement process in areas such as Michigan State Lottery, Department of Corrections, IT, and Real Estate, resulting in several hundred million dollars in opportunities;

Negotiated a comprehensive economic development package for an international client, including infrastructure dollars for $84.4 million in investment in 1,600 new jobs in West Michigan;
Facilitated the donation of a retired 747 Jetliner from a major airline to a university client's aviation and engineering programs for the training of future pilots and engineers;

Secured $100 million in state funding for the construction of the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport;

Passed legislation that raised the cap that a Michigan based beer manufacturer could produce each year, allowing it to continue to grow and invest in southwest Michigan while hiring dozens of new employees.

Bret Marr joined MHSA in 2003, and became a member of Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, LLC in 2015. Prior to that, he successfully served as Director of Legislative Affairs for former Governor John Engler. Bret served as the primary contact between the Michigan Legislature and Governor Engler on legislative and appropriations issues. Bret coordinated Michigan's electric restructuring plan in the Legislature as well as the rewrite of Michigan's Telecommunications Act. He also shepherded numerous changes to Michigan's tax structure, including a rewrite of the Brownfield program and streamlining of the tax reverted property process.

Consistently voted one of Lansing's top lobbyists, Bret's focus is now on hospitality, healthcare, transportation and general business issues. He also manages several appropriations issues for MHSA's clients. In recent years, he has successfully secured funding for the Detroit Super Bowl XL Host Committee, state approval of a new events center in the City of Detroit and directed the efforts of a coalition moving Michigan's school start date to after Labor Day.

Prior to serving Governor Engler, Bret was Director of Government Affairs for the Michigan Restaurant Association (MRA). He served as the MRA's Lansing and Washington, D.C. lobbyist and coordinated a strong grass roots program. Bret began his career in the Michigan Senate as Communications Director for the Chair of the Education Committee. While a Senate staff member, he served as policy advisor to the Appropriations Committee and advisor to the Economic Development and Financial Services Committees.

Bret graduated with a bachelor of science in Public Affairs Management from Michigan State University and received his Master's of Public Administration, also from MSU, where he graduated with honors. He served on the Michigan Travel Commission and is a member of the Michigan Political History Society. He also coaches youth soccer and hockey.

Bret is married to Jenna and resides in Okemos with their three children.

11-15 years

PRSA WV Chapter Practitioner of the Year - 2022

State Journal Generation Next 40 Under 40 - 2021

WV Executive Magazine Young Gun - 2018

PRSA WV Chapter Young Professional of the Year - 2012

Leadership West Virginia Class of 2013

Leadership Kanawha Valley Class of 2015

Coffman has won multiple PRSA WV Crystal Awards for public affairs, community relations, branding, reputation risk management, and media relations.

Coffman Collaborative is a full-service firm providing you the most advance knowledge of the legislative process during and outside session. We provide comprehensive monthly reports, real-time updates, support message development, organize bill tracking, establish legislative relationships and more. Our firm focuses on industrial clients in the economic development, technology, manufacturing and energy sectors. We understand the technical nature of these business and communicate effectively to policymakers.

We are, at the core, is a communications firm. We tailor your strategy to meet your outcomes. We dedicate time in researching who you are and your goals to be obtained. Our approach is to never give you a cookie-cutter plan. We focus on governmental affairs, public affairs, issue management, polling development, crisis communications, media relations, corporate responsibility plans, community relations, external/internal stakeholder engagement and much more.

Rachel Coffman is the President and Founder of Coffman Collaborative LLC. With over 12 years of experience in public relations and public policy strategic execution, Rachel has proven to set expectations and deliver results. She serves the needs of the firm's clients ranging from multi-national companies, trade associations, and nonprofits. Coffman serves as the co-chair for the WV Manufacturers Association governmental affairs committee and is a member of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce's governmental relations, economic development and environmental committees.

Coffman received her M.B.A. from University of Charleston in 2011 and was a magna cum laude graduate of Marshall University's W. Page Pitt School of Journalism and Mass Communications concentrating in public relations (2008). In 2019, Coffman completed a graduate certificate in Business, International Relations and the Political Economy from the London School of Economics. Coffman has completed her certifications from the Public Relations Society of America in crisis communications and reputation risk management. Also, she holds the following FEMA Emergency Management Institute certifications:
- IS-29.a: Public Information Officer Awareness
- IS-42: Social Media in Emergency Management
- IS-100.b: Introduction to Incident Command System (ICS)

Kyle brings to GSL Public Affairs and Communications more than two decades of experience in state government. A native of northeast Pennsylvania, Kyle came to Harrisburg more than 20 years ago and began his career in the Pennsylvania State Senate.

Kyle quickly worked his way up the ranks, serving in various roles and most recently as the Chief of Staff for Senator John Yudichak.

As Chief of Staff, Kyle was responsible for the day-to-day operations of both the Harrisburg Office and the District Offices. Kyle developed, implemented and promoted the Senator's legislative proposals and public policy agenda. He also identified and helped secure funding sources, such as RACP, LSA, PennDOT/DCED Multimodal and other CFA grant programs for economic development and infrastructure projects in the Senator's district.

In 2016, Kyle made the transition from chief of staff in the Senate to a career in lobbying. Widely regarded as one who could always work in a bipartisan manner within the halls of the Capitol, Kyle has been able to utilize those relationships to achieve numerous successes for his clients. Over the last few years, Kyle has worked with his clients to accomplish many legislative victories, such as the expansion of tax credit programs, implementing the first e-Scooter pilot program in Pennsylvania, amending state licensure laws and securing state appropriations.

Throughout Kyle's entire professional career, he has maintained an outstanding reputation amongst his peers. Kyle continues to use his experiences and longtime connections to collaboratively work with his clients and stakeholders to achieve policy and legislative goals.

15-20 years

With twenty years of senior leadership experience in public policy and external affairs, Michael is a valued partner for business leaders navigating the intersection of the public and private sectors at the state level. Michael helps lead the state health care practice, while his passion for emerging technology has translated to a thriving practice in this space for Tremont Strategies.

Before his role as a founding partner at TSG, Michael served as Vice President for External Relations at an international medical services where he led government affairs, communications, business development and community relations.

Prior to that, Michael was Executive Vice President at a top healthcare public affairs firm, as well as Managing Partner at a multistate and federal government relations firm. Michael began his career in working in the Maine State Senate and later served as senior staff member for the Massachusetts Democratic Party.

Michael is on the Board of Directors of the Harvard Street Neighborhood Health Center and a Liaison Board Member for the Goldfarb Center for Public Affairs. Michael graduated with distinction with a degree in Government from Colby College.

0-5 years

Sara Allen joined Cornerstone in September 2016. Sara brings over five years of healthcare experience, as well as years spent lobbying, developing and executing policy positions, engaging grassroots advocates, and assisting with political action committee campaigns and endorsements. Sara assists clients throughout the legislative and rule-making process, focusing on health care and state government concerns.

Most recently, Sara worked as a state lobbyist and staff attorney working for the Iowa Hospital Association, representing all 118 Iowa hospitals at the statehouse and various administrative agencies. In this position, Sara gained expertise in a variety of areas impacting hospitals and other health care providers; these areas include financing and reimbursement, behavioral health, value-based healthcare delivery reform models, informational technology innovation, regulatory and legal compliance, scope of practice concerns for specific providers, public body concerns, and public health initiatives.

Before her position at the Iowa Hospital Association, Sara worked for a physician staffing company as associate corporate counsel. In that role, she was responsible for maintaining the corporation's business compliance, contract drafting and enforcement, and managing the human resources function.

Sara received her juris doctorate from Drake University in December 2010 and was admitted to the Iowa Bar in April 2011. Prior to Drake, Sara received her Business Administration degree from Grand View University. In addition to her formal education, Sara received her private pilot's license in 2005 and enjoys recreational flying.

Sara lives in Des Moines with her husband Colby and her three young children, Briar, Blake, and Boone.

Evelyn (Evie) Zois Sweeney joined MHSA in 2011. Evie previously lobbied on behalf of a multitude of corporate, non-profit and municipal clients at Dykema Gossett, PLLC. She has extensive experience with state procurement, local government and the appropriations process, specifically higher education, capital outlay, corrections and general government.

Prior to joining Dykema, Evie served as a legislative assistant to the Senate Appropriations Chair and Clerk for the Senate Appropriations Committee and Joint Capital Outlay Subcommittee. In addition to shepherding legislative agendas through the process, she was responsible for monitoring several departmental budgets, including corrections, community health and general government.

Evie is a 2004 graduate fellow of Michigan State University's Michigan Political Leadership Program, a multi-partisan leadership training program. Evie also serves as co-chair of the gift acquisition committee for the Children's Trust Fund, is involved with Habitat for Humanity and serves on the Michigan Political Leadership Program's Finance Committee. Evie also had the privilege of working on Governor Rick Snyder's 2011 Inaugural Executive Committee.

Evie graduated from Michigan State University's James Madison College with honors and earned a bachelor of arts degree. She was a double major in International Relations and Sociology. Evie also served as a research assistant at St. Peter's College, University of Oxford, Oxford England.

Evie and her husband Matt reside in DeWitt with their daughter and son.

6-10 years

Callie Michael joined The Southern Group in 2010 with over eight years of valuable experience in both the budget and policy areas for state and federal government. Callie maintained a top-secret security clearance from the United States Department of Defense and worked in the U.S. House of Representatives' Appropriations Committee on the Defense Subcommittee. In this capacity, Callie gained rare insight into the federal appropriations and committee process as well as the role and interplay of government relations in the legislative arena.Following Callie's work in Washington, DC, which provided valuable experience and contacts at the federal level, Callie returned to the South where she joined the Georgia Senate Budget and Evaluation Office as the Program Analyst for the Criminal Justice, Public Safety, and Judicial Subcommittees on Appropriations. Callie was soon promoted to the position of Principal Analyst, to assume the duties and responsibilities of the departing Deputy Director. As Principal Analyst, Callie oversaw the day-to-day operations of the office and the budget development process, briefed the director and Senators on budget and policy issues, supervised and assisted other budget staff members, and served as the main contact to the 56 Senators.Callie served as Senate President Pro Tem Tommie Williams' Policy Director during the 2010 legislative session. In this capacity, Callie provided key policy analysis and recommendations to Senate Leadership.Callie is a graduate of the University of Alabama.

11-15 years

Emerging Leader Nominee, Just a Kid Big Brothers Big Sisters Flint campaign (2022)

Emerging Leader Award, Greater Flint Arts Council (2008)

20+ years

Martindale-Hubbell
    AV -Preeminent Peer Review Rated
Best Lawyers in America
    Insurance Law, 2007-2022
    Government Relations Practice, 2015-2022
    Lawyer of the Year, Insurance Law (Nashville), 2018
    Lawyer of the Year, Government Relations Practice (Nashville), 2020, 2022
Nashville 101 Top Lawyers, Nashville Post Magazine, 2011
In Charge list, Government/Politics, Nashville Post, 2010
150 Best Lawyers, Business Tennessee, 2009
Best of Bar, Nashville Business Journal
Trustee, Harpeth Hall School
Former Board of Directors, Women's Fund of Nashville, Community Foundation of Middle of Tennessee
Former Board Member, Book 'Em
Former Alumnae Board Member, Harpeth Hall School
Former Board Member, Jade's Fund, Vanderbilt Children's Hospital
Tennessee Lobbyist Association
Former Member, Board of Directors

15-20 years

Drew Duncan was born and raised in Parker, South Dakota. Drew graduated from Parker High School in 1994. In 1999 Drew graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. In 2002 Drew received his law degree from the University of South Dakota School of Law. During his time at USD, he served as the Student Board Association Vice-President his second year, and the Student Board Association President his third year. Drew was also a member of USD's Trial Team in 2002.

Following law school, Drew clerked for the Fifth Circuit Judge of the South Dakota Unified Judicial System in Aberdeen, South Dakota. Following his clerkship, he joined Zimmer, Duncan & Cole, LLP in 2003 and helped form The Duncan Law Firm, LLP in late 2017.

Drew has focused his practice on governmental affairs. Drew's practice also includes regulatory work with the State of South Dakota, criminal law, business services and family law.

Drew and his wife, Carrie, have two children, Olivia and Bennett. Drew is an avid golfer and outdoorsman and prides himself in being an active member of the community. He has served on the Board of Directors of the ParMar Valley Country Club, the Board of Directors of the Young Lawyers' Section of the South Dakota State Bar Association, the Executive Board of the South Dakota Republican Party, the Board of Directors of the South Dakota Arthritis Advisory Board, and the South Dakota Board of Elections.

Drew's representative clients include Eli Lilly Corporation, Heartland Consumers Power District, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, Neighborhood Dental, the City of Parker, the South Dakota Collectors' Association, the South Dakota Insurance Alliance and Verizon Wireless.

15-20 years

Donald D. DeAngelis '60 Excellence in Alumni Service Award recipient, Albany Law School, 2018 Participant, American Israeli Education Foundation (AIEF) Northeast Progressive Leaders Delegation trip to Israel, December 2017 Distinguished Service Award recipient, State University of New York at Potsdam Alumni Board of Trustees, 2016, Selected to the Upstate New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars list, 2013-2017

Amy is a former Legislative Aide to New York Assemblywoman Helene E. Weinstein, Chair of the Assembly Ways and Means Committee.

Amy has worked closely with executive branch officials and with legislative officials on both sides of the aisle from all over the state. Amy uses her legislative expertise in advising clients on the nuances and intricacies of the New York State legislative process. She, and the HSE team, have successfully advocated for the passage of hundreds of bills in areas such as education, energy, telecommunications, health care, transportation, insurance, and technology. In many cases, she has assisted with the entire life cycle of the legislation; working with clients to conceptualize legislation that meets their specific needs; securing majority sponsorship; advocating through the committee process; securing majority support in both houses of the legislature and working with the governor's office to secure final approval.

Amy currently serves on the Standing Committee on Government Affairs for the American Bar Association, she is a Board Member for the National Association of State Lobbyists, and she is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Business Law Section Government Affairs Practice Committee, among others. She is a frequent speaker, regionally and nationally, on a range of government affairs topics and has been selected to the Upstate New York Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

0-5 years

Ryan's extensive experience in small business, political strategy, and service to his community allows him to impact government officials while growing our client's influence in the Capitol and beyond.

Smith grew up in Northeastern Pennsylvania, deeply influenced by his family's restaurant business, where he worked throughout high school and college. Soon after, he honorably served for six years as a Military Police Officer in the Army Reserves. During that time, he engaged in local, state, and federal political campaigns, paving the way for a meaningful career with the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Ryan then became political director for Governor Josh Shapiro's successful Attorney General campaign. He later consulted on multiple statewide races before joining the Pennsylvania Democratic State Party as deputy executive director/political director, where he helped secure victories for Pennsylvania House, Senate, Gubernatorial, and U.S. Senate and Congressional campaigns.

Following successful campaign cycles, Ryan served as deputy campaign manager for Governor Shapiro's Attorney General reelection and Gubernatorial races. He then served the Shapiro Administration as special assistant to the PA Secretary of Agriculture, where he advised on policy, legislation, communications, and stakeholder relations. These experiences deepened his appreciation for rural and agricultural policy, specifically the importance of supporting small, diverse, and innovative businesses and the significance of increasing economic development in our rural, suburban, and urban communities.

Throughout his career, Ryan has built strong relationships with elected officials from both parties, business organizations, community leaders, and professional associations. His extensive network and insights reflect his unwavering commitment to public service and improving the lives within our commonwealth.

Ryan, his wife Stefanie, daughter Ava, and dogs Abbey and Leila live in Cumberland County. He enjoys golfing, skiing, and spending time with his family.

15-20 years

Mike was named 2021, 2020 and 2013 (27th, 26th and 19th editions) "Lawyer of the Year" by his peers (BestLawyers.com), for his work in Government Relations Practice, and has been listed in the same publication every year as a top Maine lawyer.

In 2020, Mike received the Katahdin Counsel Recognition Program's certificate of commendation for completion of over 50 hours of pro bono work.

At Maine Street Solutions, Mike and the team serve everyone from fortune 50 companies to the local statewide food bank. They believe in a multi-lateral strategic approach to problem solving wherein they leave egos aside and focus on achieving positive results for clients. Mike and the team do not believe in silos in government relations. They know that everyone on the team needs to have the right information so they can provide the right message to the right person at the right time. They also know that to broaden the impact of their client's message they need to use all the levers of communication: from direct advocacy to media relations, from grass roots influencing to social media, from legal advocacy to coalition building. Mike and the team know that this integrated, strategic approach brings the best chance of success for clients. AT MSS, Mike and the team are extremely competitive and want their clients to always win.
Mike and the team frequently work with clients on national strategies using Maine as a test-case to hone messages, tactics, and policy, and then help those clients develop a national strategic approach to implement their strategy. Through that work they have achieved great successes across the country, ranging from expanding access to prescription drugs and healthcare to creating best practices for good government initiatives.
If an issue touches the public, whether it be government or community relations, crisis communications or procurement, national or local issues, the MSS team has the relationships and skills to advance your interest.
Mike grew up in Bangor, graduated from Bowdoin College and the University of Maine School of Law, represented the West End of Portland in the Legislature and currently resides in Belgrade with his wife and daughter. When Mike is not on the phone with a client or lawmaker, he can be frequently found walking in the woods near his home with the family dog, Dory.

0-5 years

City and State's "40 Under 40 State Leaders" in 2022

PoliticsPA's "Top PA Political Operatives" in 2014

Board Member on the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Board of Review

Elena has significant experience coordinating and advancing legislative initiatives in Harrisburg. As former Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff for the Office of Governor Tom Wolf, she oversaw operations of 24 executive agencies, led the planning and implementation of the Governor's strategic plan and worked closely with the General Assembly to advance budgetary, investment, tax reform, election reform, public health and economic goals. Among numerous major initiatives that Elena helped guide from development to completion include the 2022-23 $45 billion budget process, Pennsylvania's largest tax credit package for energy and advanced manufacturing development, COVID vaccine distribution, Pennsylvania's Broadband Authority, regional economic hub development and business recruitment, and the regulatory and executive action agenda for equal rights policies across various industries. She also oversaw the development of risk management, process improvements and data management structures across state agencies. Having served as a liaison between various cabinet agencies, nonprofit organizations and public and private leaders, Elena understands how to collaborate to achieve a common objective.

Elena also has a depth of strategic knowledge about the organization and coordination of political and field programs for key caucus operations and races. Prior to her senior advisory career in the Governor's Office, Elena held executive leadership roles in the Democratic Party and election organizations. She was Executive Director for Campaign for a Fresh Start, which coordinated gubernatorial campaign and other Democratic campaign efforts; served as Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party; and was Political Director for the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee.

Mandy Drendel joined the Cornerstone Illinois team as a vice president in January 2021. She is an attorney and registered lobbyist with experience advocating on behalf of clients before the Illinois General Assembly and Executive Branch. As a contract lobbyist, Mandy's worked on behalf of industries including telecommunications, energy, gaming, healthcare, insurance, education and cannabis.

Prior to joining Cornerstone, she served as senior legal counsel in the Illinois Senate President's office where she worked on telecommunications, insurance, tax, and pension issues. During her tenure, Mandy helped lead major legislative initiatives including a telecommunications rewrite, small cell wireless deployment, major insurance legislations, revenue packages, property tax relief and pension reform.

Before that, Mandy served on the Senate Democratic legal team, and acted as the caucus's key regulatory and administrative rule specialist where she staffed the General Assembly's administrative rulemaking committee. This experience provided her direct access and insight into the regulatory arm of Illinois state government.

Mandy received a Juris Doctorate from the Loyola University Chicago School of Law and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.

Distinguished Alumni Award, American University, Washington College of Law, 2014
Department of Commerce Bronze Medal (2004), Silver Medal (1997), and General Counsel (1995) awards

Board of Directors, Trade Policy Forum, 2010 to present; Vice President, 2016 to present
Member, Women in International Trade
Member, Washington International Trade Association

Prior to joining K&L Gates, Ms. Ettinger served as a senior legal and policy advisor to Senator Charles Schumer, including as Chief Counsel of the United States Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and as Deputy Staff Director of the Joint Economic Committee.

Prior to joining the Senator's legislative team, she served as a senior legal advisor at the U.S. Department of Commerce. Ms. Ettinger advised agency officials on the interpretation and application of U.S. and foreign trade rules, supervised dispute settlement proceedings before the World Trade Organization, and represented the United States in international trade negotiations.

0-5 years

15-20 years

State Government Affairs Council

With nearly two decades of governmental experience, as both a public employee and as a private consultant, Tim Shea has developed a keen understanding of how the government works and how to achieve results for clients within the governmental arena. Serving as Director of Brown Rudnick's Government Relations Practice in the Hartford Office, Tim directs the firm's local and state activities at both the legislative and executive branch levels, servicing a full slate of government relations clients.

Tim's clients include energy and technology companies, health care institutions, biopharmaceutical companies, large multi-national corporations and non-profit entities.

Before joining Brown Rudnick, Tim spent seven years at Capitol City Economic Development Authority (CCEDA), the quasi-public authority formed to direct and manage state-supported economic development in and around Hartford, Connecticut's Capital City.