20+ years

Successfully worked with two municipalities regarding approval to locate two major warehouse centers in those districts.

Work with state economic development agency and key legislators for passage of legislation to provide financial assistance for small businesses in CT.

Ongoing work with major state hospital system on all pertinent issues, including state and federal funding, healthcare, etc.

Successfully assisted in merger of large pharmacy retailer and insurance.

Brenda Sisco is a principal of RSG. For more than 15 years, Ms. Sisco held several key positions in two gubernatorial administrations prior to joining RSG. Under Governor M. Jodi Rell, Ms. Sisco served as Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management ("OPM"), Commissioner of the Department of Administrative Services ("DAS") and Legislative Director for the Governor. Ms. Sisco also served as Legislative Director for Governor John G. Rowland. After leaving state service, Ms. Sisco was Director of Outreach and Government Relations for the Connecticut Council on Education Reform, a coalition of business leaders, working on the landmark education legislation in 2012.

As Secretary of OPM, Ms. Sisco oversaw the administration of centralized budgeting and planning for the State of Connecticut. Leading eight Division Directors and approximately 130 employees, Ms. Sisco reported directly to the Governor, providing guidance and analysis, preparation of the state budget and advice on the fiscal and administrative impact on public policies and policy initiatives. Additionally, Ms. Sisco reviewed all state agency requests for bonding to fund capital projects, advising the Governor on which projects that should proceed. Ms. Sisco was also responsible for the distribution and oversight of project funds.

As Commissioner of DAS, Ms. Sisco led more than 300 employees and managed a $40-million-dollar budget. Her role was to deliver programs, services, specialized support and sound business solutions to state agencies, municipalities, vendors, colleges and universities, non-profit organizations and the public at large. This included procurement of contracts on behalf of state agencies for goods and services, personnel recruitment, workforce planning, fleet operations, state workers compensation, collection of debts due the state, surplus property distribution and printing, mail and courier services.

As Legislative Director, Ms. Sisco was the lead representative for the Governor with the Connecticut General Assembly on budget and tax proposals, economic development, human services, education, public health, environment and bonding proposals. In addition to oversight and approval of all legislative proposals by state agencies, Ms. Sisco assisted in the development of policy initiatives and the passage of the biennial state budget. Ms. Sisco also served on the Board of Trustee of the University of Connecticut on behalf of the Governor and as the liaison between the Governor's Office and the New England Governors' Conference ("NEGC"). Among the more notable projects, Ms. Sisco worked on the restructuring of the electric industry, passage of UConn 2000, creation and funding of $1 billion Adriaen's Landing development project and the takeover of the Hartford School System.

Ms. Sisco received her B.S. in Psychology from Central Connecticut State University in New Britain, Connecticut.

20+ years

I served over twenty years at the local, state legislative and executive levels of government before entering the private sector. My background includes serving former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney as Legislative Director and working along-side the former Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, Thomas M. Finneran. I also worked as the Director of Government Relations & Educator Licensure for the Massachusetts Department of Education. Elected to two terms as a Revere, Massachusetts City Councilor-At-Large, and a member of Revere's School Committee for 6 consecutive years, I am also a licensed Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and School Business Administrator in Massachusetts.

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to establish lasting relationships which have led to noteworthy victories on behalf of clients. Whether it is legislative or regulatory; fiscal or procurement related, my respect, access and ability to nimbly navigate government is unrivaled.

Patrick Love joined Cornerstone in January 2025 after serving as an Attorney Analyst for the Georgia Senate Office of Policy and Legislative Analysis, where he supported standing committees by reviewing all assigned legislation, advising chairs on parliamentary procedures and conducting requested research for senators, leadership and staff.

Prior to that, Patrick served as a Budget and Policy Analyst for the Georgia House Budget and Research Office where he staffed the House Appropriations Higher Education Subcommittee which oversees the state's universities, colleges and scholarship programs. In that role, he also staffed the House standing committees on Defense and Veteran Affairs and Science and Technology. Patrick's experiences also include serving as a Legal Services Worker for the Georgia Department of Human Services, Legal Extern for the Georgia Department of Law and Legal Extern for Georgia Senate Office of the Democratic Leader.

He holds a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law and a B.A. in Political Science from University of Texas at Dallas.

Lawrence Bell joined Cornerstone in February 2023 from Sen. Warnock's (D-GA) office where he served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor. Lawrence joined the Senator's office after serving as an Advisor and Chief of Staff for the Warnock for Georgia Senatorial campaign in the 2020 special election. His leadership role on that campaign led to a historic victory electing the state's first Black United States senator.

Prior to joining the Warnock campaign, Lawrence worked in the Atlanta office of a large law and lobbying firm. There, he represented some of the country's largest corporations, working with state and local elected officials to help shape public policy and regulations across a variety of industries. His role at the firm also included community engagement, helping the organization develop and implement its philanthropic strategy to maximize the firm's impact in the community.

Lawrence has volunteered with numerous organizations including Big Brother Big Sister, Yes Atlanta and Urban League of Greater Atlanta-Young Professionals, among others. He has served on the advisory board for the Young Adult Guidance Center, and the Atlanta Chapter of National Black MBA. He also served on the board for Groundwork Atlanta, a non-profit focused on environmental sustainability and was a Trustee at Ebenezer Baptist Church, where he is still a member. Lawrence was recognized in Southern Journal Magazine as one of their 14 under 40. He received his master's from Georgia State University and his bachelor's from Clark Atlanta University.

20+ years

A long-time trusted advisor to Maryland policymakers, Joseph C. Bryce, Esq., is regarded as one of Maryland's top governmental program architects and advocates. He brings his reputation for creative and insightful problem solving and ability to manage large, complex projects and issues to MCA.

Joe has the ability to handle controversial issues in a professional manner. This skill, combined with his detailed and extensive knowledge of all levels of government, has proven invaluable to our clients.

For nearly twenty years, Joe distinguished himself working at the highest levels of government. He worked with two Maryland Governors, the Maryland Senate President, and the Chancellor of the University System of Maryland. In all of these positions, Joe provided senior policy and budget advice, and implemented legislative agendas in areas such as health, K-12 and higher education, environment, gaming, tax policy, energy, and social and criminal justice.
Joe served as Governor Martin O'Malley's Senior Policy and Legislative Advisor (2007-2012); the University System of Maryland's Associate Vice Chancellor for Government Relations (2002 to 2007); Chief Legislative Officer for Governor Parris N. Glendening (1997 to 2002); and Chief of Staff to Senate President Thomas V. Mike Miller, Jr. (1994 to 1997).

Joe graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park in 1989. In 1993, he graduated first in his class from Georgetown Law School. He is the recipient of numerous professional and academic recognitions and honors and currently serves on the Board of the Maryland Stadium Authority as an appointee of Governor Larry Hogan. Joe and his wife, Kristin Jones Bryce, have two adult children (Joey and Madison) and reside in Odenton.

Martin Hubert brings a wealth of state government experience to the clients of Cornerstone Government Affairs. From his early career as chief counsel to the Senate Natural Resources Committee to his gubernatorial appointment as a commissioner of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to his eight years as the deputy comptroller of Texas, Hubert has managed thousands of employees and millions of taxpayer dollars under both Democrat and Republican administrations.

Martin was the 2008 recipient of TSABAA's Administrator of the Year Award. Presented annually, this prestigious award was established to formally recognize state employees who have demonstrated outstanding leadership skills and who have made significant contributions to state agency business administration.

As the final general counsel to legendary Lt. Governor Bob Bullock, Martin learned the mastery of government relations from some of the most influential leaders in Texas history. His knowledge of agriculture stems from generations of the Hubert family's cow/calf and farming operations in South Texas and serving as the Texas Deputy Commissioner of Agriculture for eight years. Martin offers a unique combination of legal, natural resources, tax policy and state government procedural expertise.

Hubert is a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center and St. Mary's School of Law. He was Brigade Executive Officer in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M University, where he was a member of the Ross Volunteers Honor Guard and the Singing Cadets. He successfully completed Army Ranger School and served in the U.S. Army Reserves. He is a marathon runner and coaches his son's little league teams.

Hubert is a second tenor and helps raise money for Legal Aid through the Travis County Bar Association's "Bar and Grill" fundraisers. He and his wife Celeste live in a historic home in Austin, where they are involved with the Austin Symphony, St. Theresa's Catholic Church and School, and the happily busy lives of their children Belle and Patrick.

20+ years

Major legislative successes over the years include modifications of the administrative procedures act, education funding formulas, growth management and land use reforms, health care practice licensure laws and tens of millions in capital and operating budget allocations for clients.

Charles R. (Charlie) Brown is an attorney who focuses his practice in full time government affairs and general legal counsel at the state legislative and administrative levels. He has been a professional lobbyist for more than twenty-five years. He also spent three years working as a congressional staff member in Washington, D.C., prior to attending law school at the Seattle University School of Law.

He has extensive experience in education policy and funding, as well as most business-related policy, including environmental law, administrative law, energy, taxation, land-use, oil and gas, agriculture, transportation, health care, general business, regulatory and licensing issues.

20+ years

Accomplishing goals in Annapolis depends in large measure on mutual trust and mastery of the legislative process, two attributes that John F. Favazza, Esq., has honed through his experiences in Annapolis and applies now as a member of the MCA firm.

These traits coupled with his legal training and ability to deal effectively with complicated and sometimes controversial subject matter, give added strength to the Manis Canning team in work for their wide array of clients. He has a deep understanding of the nuances and subtleties of the legislative process and state government, and advises clients on strategies to accomplish their goals.

John spent 13 years working inside the legislative process in Annapolis. He served as Counsel to the House Economic Matters Committee for four years, and then spent nine years working for the Speaker of the House, the last six as Chief of Staff. Working with the Speaker and House leadership, John gained insight into the larger strategic decisions that underpin the legislative process in Maryland. He was involved in a broad array of substantive and policy issues, but with a focus on business, environmental, gaming and tax structure issues.

John holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in History from Towson University and Villanova University respectively and a law degree from the University of Maryland. A member of the Maryland Bar, John lives in Annapolis with his wife Erin, and their three children.

11-15 years

0-5 years

Jordan Bice joined Oxley & Associates in 2018. He works on a myriad of issues, including energy, transportation, and tax policy. He helps clients navigate Oregon's transition to a lower carbon emissions future and a cleaner transportation system by keeping his finger on the pulse with legislators and key state agencies, such as ODOE, DEQ, and ODOT. Whether it is helping transit programs run smoothly, businesses get goods to market, or troubleshooting carbon reduction programs, Jordan uses his policy and regulatory background, communication skills, and relationship building to help clients serve their customers better.

Before joining the Oxley team, Jordan worked in government affairs for the electric utility, Pacific Power, specializing in Oregon legislative issues and transportation electrification policy and programs. Prior to returning to Oregon, he worked in Washington, D.C. as a Legislative Aide for U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley on energy, environment, and agriculture issues. Jordan has campaign experience from his time working on a successful U.S. Senate race.

Jordan grew up in Lake Oswego and graduated from the University of Washington with a political science degree and a minor in music. Aside from work, he sits on the Board of Directors for the youth mentorship non-profit, Friends of Baseball, and lives in Southeast Portland with his wife, Samantha, son, Elliott, and Chihuahua, Griffey.

Sally Kilpatrick advises a diverse set of clients on state legislative and regulatory issues with a focus on healthcare, energy, education and economic development policy. Sally joined Cornerstone's Atlanta, Georgia office in September 2015 and has more than 10 years of experience providing strategic advice to the private sector.

Prior to joining Cornerstone, Sally served as vice president of government affairs at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, the state's largest business advocacy organization. Through her seven-year tenure at the Chamber, Sally developed an extensive background managing legislative and regulatory issues in the policy areas of water, energy, education, economic development and health care. While at the Chamber, Sally served on the Technology Association of Georgia's Government Affairs Taskforce and the Georgia Water Alliance. She managed the Georgia Chamber's Local Chamber Legislative Ad Hoc Committee and legislative affairs for Chamber's Small Business Advisory Council.

She has established strong, bipartisan working relationships with House and Senate members of the Georgia General Assembly and state agency officials. Her industry specific knowledge and key relationships have been valuable in assisting clients to successfully achieve their legislative and regulatory objectives at the state Capitol.

Sally is a current board member of Atlanta Moms Making A Difference and serves on the executive committee of the Georgia Chamber's Government Affairs Council.

Sally earned her B.S. in Journalism at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. She and her husband Trey reside in Atlanta with their daughter, Phen, and son, Clark.

Oil & Gas Legislative and Regulatory Policy: Representing several natural gas producers operating within the Marcellus Shale on legislative and regulatory policy matters pending within the PA General Assembly and numerous regulatory agencies with oversight for Marcellus Shale activities.

Competitive Industrial Electric Rates: Assisted large manufacturing clients in enacting legislation permitting large industrial customers to negotiate competitive rates with incumbent electric utilities, paving the way for significant, historic capital investments by those customers
.
Economic Development Incentives: Secured tens of millions of economic incentives for clients seeking to make large capital investment and significantly increase jobs in the Commonwealth, including grants and low interest loans, transportation assistance, rail capital and community development funds.

Business Tax Reform: Successfully led a large coalition of manufacturers and high/bio tech companies to secure dramatic statutory changes in Pennsylvania's Corporate Net Income Tax structure that had penalized companies for increased capital and employee investment in the Commonwealth.

Tax Free Zones: Successfully assisted large manufacturing client with the enactment of legislation creating several state and local tax free zones throughout Pennsylvania to facilitate business expansion and relocation.

Civil Justice Reform: Successfully represented several clients in passing legislation repealing the doctrine of joint & several liability in Pennsylvania.

Procurement Bid Protests: Managed several, successful bid protests on behalf of clients that wanted to pursue a protest without jeopardizing agency relationships.

Health Care: In separate matters, successfully represented several hospitals and the pharmaceutical industry in reversing or mitigating proposed agency recommendations that would have caused significant harm to those clients.

Mr. Gleason joined K&L Gates in 2002. Prior to joining K&L Gates, Mr. Gleason served in Pennsylvania Governor Mark Schweiker's Cabinet as Secretary for Legislative Affairs. In that capacity, he advised the Governor, the Governor's senior staff and fellow cabinet secretaries on legislative, regulatory and policy matters affecting all agencies under the governor's jurisdiction. On his departure from state government, Governor Schweiker had this to say about Mr. Gleason:

"Pete Gleason has been a vital advisor to me, and a trusted liaison with the General Assembly. He helped my Administration win passage of many historic pieces of legislation, including reforms to Pennsylvania's Medical Malpractice and Joint and Several Liability laws, not to mention the 2002-03 Budget � one of the most difficult budgets in Commonwealth history."

From 1997 to 2001, Mr. Gleason had served as deputy secretary for legislative affairs with the office of the governor in Pennsylvania. He worked with former Governor Tom Ridge until his appointment as director of Homeland Security.

During his tenure with the office of the governor, as the Governor's liaison to Pennsylvania General Assembly legislative leaders and committee chairs, Mr. Gleason played an integral role in the enactment of the following legislative initiatives:
The 2002-03 General Fund Budget (in the wake of a structural deficit in excess of $1.4 billion dollars).
All legislative tax policy matters; including several significant amendments to the Public Utility Realty Tax Act (PURTA), changes to the Corporate Net Income Tax (CNIT), the phase-out of the Capitol Stock and Franchise Tax (CSFT) and changes to the state Sales Tax.
The creation and expansion of Keystone Opportunity Zones (KOZ), Enhancement Zones (KOEZ) and Improvement Zones (KOIZ).
Historic reforms to Pennsylvania's Medical Malpractice and Joint and Several Liability laws.
The enactment of the Commonwealth's Procurement Code.
Natural Gas Deregulation.
The Uniform Electronic Transactions Act.
Land Use Reform ("Growing Smarter").
The Environmental Stewardship Act ("Growing Greener").
The Uniform Construction Code.
Workers' Compensation Reform.

Mr. Gleason's past positions also include director of legislative affairs at the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry, special projects director to the Republican Leader of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, and special assistant to former United States Senator John Heinz.
In 2008, the Pennsylvania Report named Mr. Gleason as one of Pennsylvania's "Top 100 Most Influential People," in a list comprised of the 100 people most likely to have an impact on government and politics in Pennsylvania in 2008. In a 2004 poll conducted with state legislators, staff, lobbyists and other state policy stakeholders, he was named as "Most Effective Lobbyist" in Pennsylvania. Mr. Gleason was recently honored by the Pennsylvania Law Weekly and the Legal Intelligencer as one of forty lawyers under forty "On the Fast Track" for his work at K&L Gates and in the office of the governor.

6-10 years

Jennie served as the primary staff member for the House Education Committee.

Jennie Previously served as:
Senior Director of Government Relations and Policy, University of Memphis, 2018-2019. Built and maintained relationships, studied policy initiatives, and advocated for funding before state, local, and Federal officials. Successful in securing capital funding for the Lambuth Campus, a first for the University. Organized the inaugural University of Memphis Legislative Retreat, bringing a record 40 legislators from across Tennessee to the University of Memphis Campus.

Director of Government Relations, State Collaborative on Reforming Education (SCORE), 2014-2018. Represented Tennessee's leading education policy and advocacy organization before the Tennessee General Assembly. Successfully designed and executed a statewide roadshow for a Governor's cabinet member to interact with business and community stakeholders.

Legislative Staffer, Tennessee General Assembly, 2011-2014. Worked for the Tennessee General Assembly in several roles including Research Analyst for the House Education Committee. Developed strong working relationships with key education and business community stakeholders. Maintained a deep understanding of education-related legislation to serve as the primary policy advisor to the committee.

Fundraiser and Campaign Coordinator, Congressman Bill Cassidy, 2010-2011.

Max Moll joined the Cornerstone Public Affairs team April of 2023, bringing a public affairs and strategic communications presence to Cornerstone's Texas offices. In his previous role as chief engagement officer at the Houston Independent School District, he oversaw government relations, communications, family and community engagement and board relations for the nation's eighth largest school district. He also oversaw the district's legislative affairs work and external lobby team, ensuring alignment and execution of district's legislative priorities. In addition, he represented the district with external stakeholders, in traditional and digital media appearances, and on panels and other various speaking opportunities. He was also the lead spokesperson for the district and main point of contact for elected officials, advocacy groups and private industry.

Prior to working at HISD, Max served as the chief communications officer & deputy director for the Office of the Houston City Controller, Chris B. Brown. He spearheaded all communications initiatives for the Office of the City Controller, working across the City of Houston's 22 departments to help unify external and internal communications. Max served as liaison between Controller's Office and the city's investors, developing key external messaging relating to investment strategy, portfolio performance, and maintaining key relationships with city's investor base. In addition, and in partnership with the Controller's Office Treasury Division, Max helped oversee the city's Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investments, helping grow the portfolio to over $950 million.

Max also served as the chief of staff to the CEO of the Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, where he oversaw the development and execution of the Chamber's public affairs and community outreach efforts, legislative advocacy campaigns and external affairs projects. Also, he served as the main point of contact for media, securing comprehensive coverage and managing all media relationships on behalf of the Chamber and its members.

He holds a master's in business administration from Boston University, master's in political management from George Washington University, and a bachelor's in mass communication from LSU.

6-10 years

Dianne began her career at the Massachusetts State House alongside freshman State Representative Marty Walsh, now former Secretary of the US Department of Labor. From there, she led public policy and intergovernmental relations for Massachusetts public safety and public health agencies. In those roles, she secured major funding for operations and capital improvements, and policies to improve services to the Commonwealth's most vulnerable residents. Shortly after Walsh became Mayor in 2014, she helped him build out Boston's first-ever Economic Development cabinet.Her experience includes public policy, legislative, and regulatory work for legislative, executive, and independent state agencies, municipal government, political campaigns, and private consulting. Dianne specializes in public safety, construction trades issues, the cannabis industry, and public health.

20+ years

TOM MCBRIDE has advocated for groups and organizations that depend on fair and reasonable treatment under the law for more than 20 years. He has developed a reputation as an effective lobbyist, founded on high ethical standards, aggressive advocacy and personal authenticity.

Tom began his career as a private practice attorney representing commercial and financial interests, with a focus on commercial litigation and bankruptcy law. He went on to serve as government affairs director for fiscal and transportation issues on behalf of the Association of Washington Business, Washington state's chamber of commerce. He then directed the government relations program for the West division of the McDonald's Corporation.

Tom also has firsthand experience working within Washington state government. As director of intergovernmental affairs for the Washington State Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development, he oversaw regulatory and legislative interests in energy, economic development, housing, international trade and growth management.

In 2008, he founded McBride Public Affairs, to advocate for clients on legislative and regulatory matters in Washington state.

A 1994 graduate of Gonzaga University School of Law, Tom holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science from Whitman College. He and his family make their home in Olympia.

20+ years

Camille Young brings almost two decades of background in the practice of state and federal government affairs to Cornerstone's Jackson, Mississippi office. Prior to joining Cornerstone, Camille spent 10 years as a government affairs representative with one of the State's leading law firms, Watkins Ludlam Winter & Stennis, P.A.

Prior to that, Camille spent five years at the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation in several positions, including communications specialist, director of media relations and government relations specialist. During her time at Farm Bureau, she also spent time on Capitol Hill establishing relationships and providing support for the agricultural community. She also held a position with the United States Department of Agriculture as an outreach and public affairs specialist.

At Watkins Ludlam, Camille worked for the state and federal legislative interests of clients as varied as an institution of higher learning, a major automotive manufacturer, associations that represent constituents in every county of the state and healthcare entities. In addition to her Capitol lobbying tasks, Camille provided significant support to clients in areas of public relations and community relations.

Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour tapped Camille to serve as a museum liaison for the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum project that joined public and private sponsors to launch the venture that will honor Mississippi's history in the Civil Rights Movement.

Camille is very involved in community activities like the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership Board of Directors, the Junior League of Jackson Sustainers Board of Directors, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and the Mississippi 4-H Foundation. She also was honored to serve as President of the Mississippi State University National Alumni Association in 2012-13.

Camille has been honored for her professional accomplishments and service to the community as a member of the Mississippi Business Journal's Top 50 Business Women (2006) and Top 40 Under 40 (2005). She was named a Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scout Council of Middle Mississippi and Alumnus of the Year by the Central Mississippi Chapter of the MSU Alumni Association. She also is a member of the BankFirst Board of Directors and the inaugural class of Top 50 Most Influential People in Mississippi.

Camille grew up in Shannon, MS, and graduated from Mississippi State University (B.A., 1994 and M.S., 1996).

Camille and her husband Keith are the proud parents of three children and enjoy living in rural Madison County. Camille is an active participant in her church, community and the school activities of her children.

20+ years

I have obtained major regulatory incentives for trucking, rental car (Enterprise, National and Alamo) and smokeless and cigar industries. I also created a major tourism development zone for Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, as well as being involved in tax incentives for tourism development projects in downtown Memphis, Tennessee.

Charlene Puchalla serves as an Assistant Vice President in Cornerstone's Atlanta, GA office, assisting the firm's government relations team with client service activities including conducting research and providing updates on state legislative matters and diverse regulatory issues.

Charlene joins Cornerstone following her time at Wellstar Health System, where she held multiple positions, most recently serving as a Government Relations Specialist. In this role, she developed and managed relationships with elected officials and key staff in Georgia at the local, state and federal levels, while assisting in developing and recommending legislative priorities and goals. Charlene gained invaluable experience summarizing and interpreting the impact of legislation and preparing legislative summaries, regular communications and presentations. She also served as a Legal Assistant of Government Relations at Wellstar.

Prior to Wellstar, Charlene served as a scheduler and field representative for Representative Tom Price (R-GA) for more than seven years. She began her career as a legislative and research aid in the Pennsylvania State Senate.

Charlene earned her bachelor's with a concentration in public administration from Shippensburg University.

0-5 years

15-20 years

Jim O'Brien, the founder of the firm, has been involved in Connecticut politics and government for the last 20 years. Jim began his political career in college by working as an intern on Capitol Hill. After college, Jim continued to pursue his interest in politics by working on several campaigns and political events and in 1994, Jim went to work in the Connecticut Governor's office as a Legislative Liaison. Jim helped organize the Governor's legislative agenda and his responsibilities included both editing proposed legislation as well as developing and executing a strategy to pass the legislation. He also represented the Governor's office on the Electric Deregulation Working Group, a group formed to analyze ways in which to deregulate the electric utility industry.
Upon leaving the Governor's office in 1997, Jim joined an investment firm. Also, in that year, Jim ran and was elected to the West Hartford Town Council where he served two terms. In 2004, Jim started his own government relations firm, J. O'Brien & Associates, LLC.
Jim received his B.A. in History from the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. in 1988 and his J.D. from the Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law in 1995.

Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Paul Costa brings extensive experience in local and state government to Maverick Strategies. He is the former State Representative for the 34th district situated in Allegheny County where he served from 1999 to 2018.

While serving as a legislator he sat on several committees including Appropriations, Liquor Control, Gaming, Policy, Rules, Tourism and Transportation. Costa also served on the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency, Point Park University Board of Trustees, University of Pittsburgh Institute of Politics Board of Fellows and Eastern Area Adult Services.

In 2011 Costa was elected by his peers as Allegheny County Delegation Chair where he served until his appointment as Chairman of the Liquor Control Committee in 2013. While Chairman of the Liquor Control Committee he spearheaded several initiatives including but not limited to beer and wine modernization and consumer convenience. In addition, Costa sponsored several personal pieces of legislation such as the Film Tax Credit, 50/50 legislation which generates millions for non-profits, bills which advocate for the safety of animals, a bill which allowed for automatic granting of a CDL license upon returning home for qualified military personnel and sustainable transportation measures.

Prior to serving the 34th Legislative District, Costa spent more than 20 years working in the Allegheny County Prothonotary's office, ending as Deputy Prothonotary. Costa also served on the Wilkins Township board of commissioners for three years, serving one year as board president. Paul Costa graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Point Park University. Paul resides in Pittsburgh with his wife Kathleen. They have three children Michael, Maria, and Dante.

Shalamar Parham joined Cornerstone in January 2025 after serving as a Senior Policy Analyst with GeorgiaLink Public Affairs Group, where she lobbied and advocated on client issues and analyzed legislation to support client needs.

Prior to that, Shalamar served as Policy Manager/Legal Counsel for the Georgia House Democratic Caucus, where she provided policy advice, drafted legislation, and led a team of nine in summarizing over 1,000 bills. Her experience also includes serving as Chief of Staff for former Georgia State Representative Erick Allen (D-GA), overseeing legislative strategies, managing staff, and coordinating with leadership.

In addition to her public policy expertise, Shalamar has an extensive legal background. She worked as the Managing Attorney at her own firm - Parham Law Firm, LLC, where she managed active cases, recruited and developed legal teams, and handled firm operations for more than a decade.

She holds a Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School and a B.A. in Criminal Justice from Valdosta State University.

Prior to joining the firm, Ms. Lawless was a legislative director for a health care network for over four years. In addition, she worked as a project manager for a real estate development company and was a policy consultant. She worked as a deputy policy director for a candidate for Governor, and she was the Pennsylvania state campaign director for the Paraprofessional Healthcare Institute (PHI National). Ms. Lawless was a public affairs/legislative director for the American Society for Pharmaceutical and Experimental Therapeutics and the American Society for Nutrition for 10 years.

20+ years

Nicholas G. Manis, the son of MCA co-founder George Manis and managing partner of the firm, has presided over legislative and special event successes on behalf of clients such as the Motion Picture Association of America, the Baltimore Ravens, the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants and Pfizer.

Nick has been an accomplished lobbyist and legislative analyst for more than 25 years and has played an instrumental role in forging innovative and economically enhancing business partnerships among clients. He is proud to see MCA continuously ranked as one of the top lobbying firms in Maryland and the growth the firm has experienced during his time here. He has represented clients in matters related to sports entertainment, taxes, professional licensing, gaming, transportation, insurance, franchises, business regulation, information technology, environmental regulation, mergers and acquisitions, pharmaceuticals and healthcare.

In 1989, Nick's business bent led him to co-found Manis & Wright Realty, a premier residential and commercial realty firm that grew from modest beginnings to a successful 40 associates company that merged with the largest real estate company in Maryland.

Nick graduated from the University of Maryland, College Park in 1980. He was the captain of the varsity lacrosse team during his time at College Park.

A native of Annapolis, Nick is involved in many local business and community organizations including the Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Chamber of Commerce, the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center Board of Advisors, Annapolis Youth Lacrosse Association, and the Maryland Chamber of Commerce. He was presented the Louis L. Goldstein Award in 1998 in recognition of his efforts on behalf of the Maryland Alcohol Beverage Industry. He is married with two children.

Jeff Hamling joined Cornerstone in 2017, bringing a wealth of experience and relationships in Atlanta, Georgia. Jeff came to the firm after two years as a lobbyist in Dentons' Atlanta and Washington offices where he represented a number of corporate, governmental, and non-profit clients.

Prior to Dentons, Jeff worked at the Georgia Chamber of Commerce as vice president for state and federal affairs. Jeff joined the Chamber after serving then-Congressman Tom Price for over five years. Starting as a staff assistant, Jeff was quickly promoted to deputy chief of staff, overseeing the Atlanta office and various aspects of the federal legislative staff.

Jeff has also been recognized by prestigious organizations for professional accomplishments: profiled in Capitol Impact Magazine's People on the Move, "Rookie of the Year" award voted on by his peers in the Georgia lobbying community, and James Magazine's Georgia's Political Influencers in Washington, D.C.

Helped lead $1.7B agency including management, budget, technology, procurement and legislative affairs at MBTA

Led multiple technology upgrades at MBTA that resulted in a significant leap forward innovation at the agency, also became very proficient in state procurement processes and rules

Helped develop and coordinate strategy to consolidate functions of six transportation departments as Legislative Director at MassDOT

Routinely worked with staff and vendors on hundreds of millions of dollars in road and bridge projects annually

Responsible for writing and tracking all legislation and budget matters for Asst. Minority Leader

Policy Advisor at Preti Strategies

Chief of Staff, Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority

Legislative Director, MassDOT

Chief of Staff, Massachusetts Highway Department

Chief of Staff and Legislative Director, Assistant Minority Leader, Massachusetts Senate


Education:

University of Massachusetts

Ross Giesinger brings over a decade of legislative experience at the Texas Capitol to the Cornerstone team, having served for six legislative sessions in both the Texas House and Senate.

Most recently, Ross worked as a policy advisor to Dade Phelan, Speaker of the Texas House, of Representatives, during the 87th Regular Session, where he assisted with the passage of over 80 pieces of legislation. Additionally, Ross drafted and managed several bills filed in response to Winter Storm Uri, including SB 3, one of the most comprehensive energy reforms in Texas in the last 20 years.

Prior to his time in the House, Ross spent several years working as general counsel and legislative director for Sen. Lois Kolkhorst (R-TX) and as the director of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services. While at the Senate, Ross assisted with the passage of nearly 300 bills and worked to obtain funds for a variety of initiatives, including legislation that secured permanent funding for Texas State Parks.

Ross began his career at the legislature in 2010 as a drafting attorney for the Texas Legislative Council. During his time with the state, he has drafted thousands of pieces of legislation, allowing him to develop expertise in a wide variety of subject areas, including energy, healthcare, water, land use and development, transportation, insurance, labor, agriculture, wildlife, taxation, and state budgeting.

Ross is a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Southern Methodist University's Dedman School of Law. He is a member of the Austin Young Lawyers Association and was recently elected to serve on the Council of the Texas State Bar's Legislative and Campaign Law Section. Ross also serves as a Steward of the Wild for the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and has been active in the Austin Ballet Guild, the Trail Foundation, and CCA. He and his wife Courtney live in Austin with their young son Henry.

20+ years

Gary Oxley established Oxley & Associates, Inc. in 1992, after serving as the Development & Government Affairs Manager for The Southland Corporation, a multi-level corporation that included the 7-Eleven Store chain and its subsidiaries. He has grown the firm into a multi-state, independent, full-service political and public affairs firm that represents a distinguished list of clients, including some of Oregon's largest employers. The broad range of issues that impact the firm's large portfolio of clients reflects the depth of public policy knowledge and related strategic skills that he brings into every advocacy situation he is asked to engage in at any point in time.

Gary has been actively involved in local politics and has been appointed to serve on a variety of state and local policy committees. He is a co-founder of the Retail Task Force (a coalition of real estate developers, realtors, national commercial tenants, and land use consultants). Gary previously served as a member of the Portland City Club's Land Use and Economic Development Committee, the State Health Department's Food Service Advisory Board, the Liquor Control Commission's Package Store Advisory Committee, and the Board of the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross. Gary is a member and past director of the Capitol Club.

Matthew Garcia joined Cornerstone in December of 2024, expanding the firm's Texas footprint to Dallas. A seasoned government and public affairs executive with over two decades experience in the Dallas Region, Matt brings a wealth of experience in policy, advocacy and stakeholder engagement. He joins Cornerstone from the Dallas Regional Chamber, where he served as Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Advocacy. In this role, he spearheaded the organization's public policy strategy, while remaining closely engaged with legislators, key stakeholders and C-level executives across the Dallas Region for one of the largest Chambers of Commerce in Texas.

Prior to his time at Dallas Regional Chamber, Matt worked as the Director of External Affairs for Leon Capital Group where he developed the firm's public affairs strategies across their multiple business lines.

Previously, Matt served in the United States House of Representatives, first as District Director (2010-2013) and then as Chief of Staff-Texas (2013-2018), managing Rep. Pete Sessions' (R-TX) office and serving as a key advisor on energy, transportation and general business issues for Texas. Notably, Matt served as the North Texas congressional point of contact working with area city officials, the North Texas Municipal Water District (NTMWD) and the Army Corps of Engineers to bring online Bois d'Arc Lake, the newest major reservoir in Texas in over 30 years. Matt also worked alongside emergency response teams at the city, county and state levels during the 2014 Ebola crisis in Dallas to deliver accurate and timely public communication while leading information coordination with federal agencies, including the National Institute of Health and the Department of Health and Human Services.

He earned his bachelor's degree in finance from the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin. Garcia currently serves as Director of the Texas Association of Business, The Dallas Zoo and the Texas Lyceum, and member of the following organizations: McCombs School of Business BBA Advisory Board, Simmons Cancer Center Community Advisory Board, Reading Partners North Texas, the State Fair of Texas Chairman's Task Force, the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Brand Advancement Committee and the SMU Corporate Communications and Public Affairs Advisory Board.

Higher Education
Successfully assisted entities before regulatory agencies to achieve compliance.

Public Health
Worked with regulatory agency and broader coalitions to secure a positive recommendation from a Texas State agency which subsequently led to final passage of key legislation.

Local Government
Worked with the 3rd largest county in the country to secure vital legislation.

Regulatory Projects
Successfully assisted a national association and private companies in matters dealing with state franchise issues.

Telecommunications
Successfully assisted a publically traded company to secure passage of legislation affecting the Texas Universal Service Fund.

Energy
Successfully assisted client in passage of electric utility matters.

Ms. Leo has over 25 years of combined experience in federal, state and local government. Prior to joining the firm in 1996, Ms. Leo served as the Intergovernmental Relations Manager for the City of San Antonio. In that capacity, she had chief responsibility for managing federal, state and local matters on behalf of the City of San Antonio. Ms. Leo managed legislative and political activities at these various levels of government including Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC); state legislative matters impacting the City of San Antonio as well as interlocal agreements between the city and county.

She served as Chief of Staff for the first Hispanic woman elected to the Legislature, State Representative Irma Rangel, in which she managed all legislative policy, including appropriations, redistricting, healthcare, education and transportation. In this capacity, Ms. Leo also served as the Director of the Mexican-American Legislative Caucus and managed policy issues in behalf of the members of the Caucus. Prior to joining the House side of the Capitol, Ms. Leo worked in the policy division of Lieutenant Governor William P. Hobby, Jr. Ms. Leo's legislative career began as a Senate Messenger.

Ms. Leo serves on the Firm's Global Diversity Committee which promotes a diverse workforce and an inclusive firm culture. She is a Board member of the Senate Hispanic Research Council (SHRC), a non-profit research group that supports internships for college students in the offices of members of the Texas Senate. Ms Leo is a 9th generation Texan, and a member of the William B. Travis Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas.