20+ years

Selected for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America, Government Relations, 2011-2020
Member, Virginia Code Commission
Commissioner (Virginia), Uniform Law Commission

In addition to being an attorney with McGuireWoods LLP, Chris is an executive vice president in McGuireWoods Consulting. His government affairs practice consists of representing clients before the Virginia legislature, executive branch and state and local agencies.
Chris' legal practice involves advising companies on political law compliance activities, including lobbying, gift restrictions involving public officials, campaign finance, and government ethics laws. He also holds the CIPP/US credential as a Certified Information Privacy Professional from the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP).

With more than 25 years of experience in Virginia government and politics, Chris has developed a deep knowledge of Virginia state and local government and the legislative and regulatory process. Drawing on his experience as a lobbyist and as the former chief counsel to a Virginia attorney general, Chris assists clients in developing and implementing legislative and regulatory strategies to meet their business and public policy objectives.

Chris brings a unique perspective to his political law practice because of his government relations experience. Understanding the political process and the practice of government relations is essential to advising a client on how to comply with the myriad of federal, state and local rules governing lobbying, ethics, conflicts of interest, ethics in public procurement and campaign finance, while still achieving the client's business and public policy objectives.

Monte Stevens joins Southern Strategy Group after serving more than a decade in Florida government. After serving in the Legislative Affairs office of the Agency for Health Care Administration and the Department of Financial Services, Monte joined the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) in 2008 where he led OIR's legislative and executive lobbying effort as Deputy Chief of Staff.

While at OIR, Monte was instrumental in the passage of legislation relating to all sectors of the insurance industry including landmark reforms to personal injury protection and homeowner's insurance. Most recently, Monte oversaw the passage and implementation of the NAIC model holding company act and principle based reserving for life insurers. Knowledgeable in all lines of insurance, Monte was frequently called upon to testify and present to legislative committees on a variety of subjects.

In addition to lobbying the Legislature, Monte also served as OIR's representative to the Governor and Cabinet in the rule making process. In this capacity, Monte led the effort to implement the country's first ever regulatory initiative on collateral requirements for reinsurers.

Monte also served as Director of Government Affairs and Public Policy for the Florida Medical Association where he was involved in the passage of significant medical malpractice reform. A native of Niceville, Florida, Monte was a member of two national champion debate teams at the University of Missouri-Kansas City before graduating with a degree in political science. Prior to returning to Florida, Monte attended graduate school, taught public speaking, and coached the debate teams at Kansas State University and Harvard University.

Monte and his wife Jodi live in Tallahassee.

15-20 years

In 2022, Kim and the RWW team were named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal.

Named to the 40 under 40 in 2016

Women in Business Honoree in 2021

Worked with Sen. Tom Carper as a key staffer on his Senate campaign in 2026.

Gubernatorial appointment to the Delaware Community Foundation board.

Worked on various campaigns in a fundraising position.

Kim Willson has been interested in politics for as long as she can remember and comes to Ruggerio Willson & Associates with extensive experience. Her diverse background, which covers statewide and Senatorial campaigns, local community organizations and work in the non-profit sector as well as Fortune 500 companies positions her as an immediate contributor to the success of RWW.

Kim's first foray into local politics started in college when she began working for the Delaware Volunteer Firemen's Association's (DVFA) administration. Her role with the DVFA provided Kim with first-hand knowledge of how local organizations and governments work together. It also gave her hands-on experience in cultivating those relationships, which is a skill vital to success in all aspects of government relations. Kim's next step was into national politics, serving as State Scheduler and Executive Assistant for United States Senator Tom Carper (D-DE). During this time, Kim was in daily communication with the Senator and served as the first point of contact for anyone trying to schedule meetings or events with him. She worked with both the Delaware and Washington, D.C. staff, and played an integral role in Senator Carper's successful 2006 Senate Re-Election Campaign.

Kim then entered the non-profit sector as the Program Manager for Vision 2015, an education reform program focused on transforming public education in Delaware to a world-class status. During her tenure with Vision 2015, Kim's daily interactions were with various school officials, the Department of Education, the University of Delaware Provosts, as well as state, local, and federal elected officials to further the mission, gain support, and work towards securing funding to continue the growth of the program.

Following her time with Vision 2015, Kim returned to the political campaign arena, serving as Regional Field Director in Kent County (DE) for the 2008 Delaware Democratic Party Coordinated Campaign. While there, Kim worked intimately with local, state, and federal elected officials and party leaders to ensure a Democratic win from the presidential race to the local offices, along with helping to secure a democratic majority in the Delaware House of Representatives.

Most recently, Kim led Government Relations for Valero Energy Corporation, a Fortune 500 company, in Delaware. During her tenure with Valero, Kim served as the face of Valero in Delaware, representing the company in the community but also working with members of Delaware's government on all levels, including the congressional delegation, State House of Representatives, State Senate, various state agencies, and the office of the governor. Kim worked to educate all parties about the refinery. She also helped to pull together union and state business leaders in order to stop a piece of legislation that would have cost Valero several million dollars.

Kim is married with two daughters. She is very involved with the local organization, Gals that Give. Aside from the beach, her favorite hang-outs are the local Crossfit box and yummy locally-owned restaurants.

11-15 years

Ron's governmental service ranges from City Council to the Chairman of the House Liquor Committee. His ability to navigate the many layers of government and work across the aisle in a bipartisan manner is second to none.

Ron has a close relationship with the current members of the PA House of Representatives and staff.

Ron's extensive experience in state and local government will help Versant's clients set strategies to achieve their legislative and regulatory goals. Ron served in the PA House of Representatives for over 20 years and was an active member of the House Consumer Affairs and Rules Committees. Ultimately, he was named Secretary of the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee and became Chairman of the House Liquor Committee. Prior to his election to represent the 162nd House District, Ron served as Mayor of Sharon Hill, Pennsylvania. More recently, he worked in governmental affairs serving a myriad of interests in the State Capitol.

20+ years

Louisiana Political Museum Hall of Fame Inductee (2016)

Lafayette General Hospital Foundation Board of Directors (present)

Moncus - Lafayette Central Park - Board of Directors (present)

232 Help- Board of Directors, Executive Committee (present)

Hillard University Art Museum - Hillard Society - Chairman (present)

Community Foundation of Acadiana - CFA - Board of Directors (present)

Opus Christi Magum - Catholic Charities - Co-Chair (present)

One Acadiana - Chamber of Commerce - Board of Directors (present)

Swamp Base - Boy Scouts - Capital Campaign - Co-Chair (present)

Evangeline Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, Advisory Board (present)

ICON Awards/ABC Fund - Advisory Board (present)

Order of Malta (Catholic Society) (present)

Louisiana Governor's Mansion Preservation Foundation (present)

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities- Board of Directors (present)

National Association of State Lobbyists (NASL) Past President, President Emeritus (present)

ICON/Arts/Buisness/Culture: Patron Award (2019)

Lafayette Civic Cup 86th Recipient (2018)

National Outstanding Eagle Scout Award - NESA (2017)

Louisiana Association of Museums Outstanding Foundation Support Award (2017)

Louisiana Political Museum Hall of Fame Inductee (2016)

University of Louisiana at Lafayette Spring Gala "Alumni Honoree" (2014)

Lafayette Public Library - Major Donor Award (2009)

Bishops Charity Ball - King Louis XIII (2000)

Monsignor Alexander O. Sigur Award Recipient (Diocese of Lafayette) (1999)

Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (Catholic Order) - Knight Grand Cross

Order of Malta (Catholic order)

Louisiana Statehood Bicentennial Commission (past)

Odgen Museum- Board of Directors (past)

Louisiana Commemorative Coin Advisory Commission (past)

Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Trade and Tourism Council (past)

Evangeline Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, Vice President of Finance (past)

Our Lady of Lords Hospital- Board of Directors (past)

St. Thomas More High School Foundation Board (past)

Bishop's Charity Ball, Fundraising Chairman (Diocese of Lafayette) (past)

St. Thomas More School Board (3-year term) (past)

Our Lady of Fatima School Board (past)

Boy Scouts of America/Evangeline Council Board of Directors (past)

Bishop Charity Ball Executive Committee (Diocese of Lafayette) (past)

Louisiana Lobbying Commission (Registration and Reporting) (past)

Our Lady of Fatima School Foundation, Board of Directors (past)

Old State Capitol Foundation, Board of Directors, Advisory Board (past)

Krewe of Gabriel, Lafayette, Louisiana (present)

Krewe of Bonaporte, Lafayette, Louisiana (present)

Krewe of Rio, Lafayette, Louisiana (present)

Louisiana Historical Society, Board of Directors (past)

Chairman of the University of Southwestern Louisiana Alumni Association's Legislative Relations (past)

Louisiana Insurance Lawsuit Reporting Commission (past)

Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (State Police, Department of Public Safety) (past)

Louisiana Association of Business & Industry (LABI); Steering Committee of the Liability Reform Task Force; Steering Committee of the Unemployment Compensation Task Force; Steering Committee of the Worker's Compensation Task Force (past)

Lafayette Chamber of Commerce (Executive Committee; Board of Directors [1988-1990]; Past Chairman of the Oil & Gas Division/Long-Range Planning; Lafayette Leadership Board of Directors) (past)

Fine Arts Foundation, Board of Directors (past)

Commerce & Energy Bank of Lafayette, Louisiana, Advisory Board of Directors (past)

Louisiana Society of Association Executives, Board of Directors (past)

United Cerebral Palsy of Louisiana, First Vice-President (past)

Chamber of Commerce, Vice President of State/National Affairs (past)

Krewe of Louisiana, Washington, D.C. (1981-Present)

Association of Louisiana Lobbyists (Member; President [1985-88]; Past President [1989]; Board of Directors [1990]) (past)

Randy K. Haynie is the owner and president of Haynie & Associates, a government relations firm established in 1980 with offices in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, Louisiana. His son, Ryan K. Haynie, is his partner in the Baton Rouge-based firm of Haynie & Associates. From these bases of operation, he has been lobbying the Louisiana legislature for thirty-seven years and has served under the last seven Louisiana Governors.

Randy Haynie first acquired his taste for politics upon being elected SGA President of the College of Sciences at the University of Southwestern Louisiana. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, chemistry and mathematics, he became a Sergeant-at-Arms for the Louisiana Senate and then the personal aide of former Senator Edgar "Sonny" Mouton. He worked extensively in Mouton's gubernatorial campaign and with this experience under his belt; he opened the consulting firm of Haynie & Associates. The knowledge of the oil industry he picked up while working as a roughneck during the summer months while a student at USL helped him acquire one of his first clients, The Louisiana Oilfield Contractors Association, which he still represents today. It was not long before he began representing a wide variety of clients.

Presently, he represents national corporations such as JP Morgan/Chase, GE (General Electric) GM (General Motors), Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, Caesar's Entertainment Inc., Enterprise Rental Cars Inc., New Orleans Saints, National Football League, and Johnson Controls.

Ryan Haynie is President of Louisiana Governmental Studies, which has published a Louisiana Legislative Directory yearly since 1984. The firm has also published eight four-year editions of the Grass-Roots Guide to the Louisiana Legislature.

Randy Haynie is just as involved in civic and professional organizations as he is in his businesses, an important lesson he learned as he achieved the rank of "Eagle" from the Boy Scouts of America. He is the past National President of the National Association of State Lobbyists. Furthermore, he currently serves on various boards throughout Louisiana, including the La. Endowment for the Humanities, the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum in Lafayette, and the Community Foundation of Acadiana. In addition, he has served on the Bishop's Charity Ball Executive Committee for the Diocese of Lafayette since 1996 and was selected the 13th Annual Bishop's Charity Ball King Louis XIII in 2000 and was inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame in 2016. Randy is an active member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre and was also accepted to the class of 2009 for the Order of Malta. In 2018, Randy was awarded the Lafayette Civic Cup, its 86th recipient since 1933.

On the personal side, he is an avid collector of objects associated with Louisiana and has an extensive collection of Louisiana obsolete currency, including state, parish, municipal, merchant and bank notes which date back to the 1800s. He also collects lottery tickets issued by the first Louisiana Lottery Company as well as photos of Louisiana governors and memorabilia related to their terms of office. He has several early maps of Louisiana and owns original paintings by well-known Louisiana and Southern artists. Randy Haynie showcases his Louisiana collection at Long-View, his Baton Rouge office that was once the home of one of Louisiana's most colorful governors, Earl K. Long.

6-10 years

Awarded "Forty under 40" from the Baton Rouge business Report in 2014

Association of Louisiana Lobbyists - President 2015-2016, Board Member 2013 - present

National Association of State Lobbyists - Secretary 2017-2018, Board Member 2015 -present

Active in young professional organizations in Baton Rouge and Louisiana (on service committee of Forum 35)

State Commissioner, Volunteer Louisiana Commission 2014 - present

Philanthropic and social involvements with wide range of organizations

Ryan K. Haynie is a partner with the Baton Rouge-based Haynie and Associates, a government relations and lobbying firm founded 39 years ago by his father and namesake. High-profile clients have become a hallmark of the firm and its reputation in state and national circles is secure, due in no small part to an established record of credibility and unfailing integrity. Ryan marks the next generation of leadership at Haynie and Associates. He was raised from inside the family business while simultaneously developing relationships with key Capitol staffers, lawmakers and the right mix of business leaders, influencers and decision-makers. In a short period of time, Ryan has proven himself to be an invaluable asset to the success of Haynie and Associates and its clients - and is regarded as one of the most effective lobbyists in the Louisiana Capitol.

Ryan has also started to leave his own impression within the firm's storied offices at Longview, the historic former home of Mrs. Earl K. Long. From Ted Dunham Drive along the Capitol Lake, he has facilitated and planned charitable events and political fundraisers, continuing and furthering Longview's famous open door policy. Ryan is likewise bringing the firm's communications arm into a new era. As president and co-owner of Louisiana Governmental Studies, Ryan publishes and markets the Grass Roots Guide to the Louisiana Legislature , which was created more than two decades ago and remains the foremost trusted name in Louisiana Legislative resources. In 2010 Ryan developed and launched an iPhone application and currently operated a mobile website (www.mobilelgs.com) that allows users to access a digital database of the most current legislative and executive branch resources. Future products promise to be just as exciting as Ryan continues to develop a full service client management system ripe with tools for client communication, lobbying, data analytics and advocacy.

Finding ways to leverage technology has become a niche role for Ryan at Haynie and Associates. He has transformed client and lawmaker communications with up-to-date and real-time policy research and media services. Ryan is also bridging generational gaps nationally. In 2009, he formed Young Professional State Lobbyists, an organization of hand-selected lobbyists age 40 or younger from every U.S. state. In 2010 Ryan was selected to serve as president of YPSL as well as Host Committee & Website Committee chairman. The mission of YPSL is to change the public perception of its trade and prompt discussions between up-and-coming lobbying professionals from across the United States. Building off of this alliance, Ryan is already an active board member of the Association of Louisiana Lobbyists, and a member in good standings with the American League of Lobbyists, and the National Association of State Lobbyists.

Ryan's other political experience includes internships in the offices of Congressmen Charles Boustany and Rodney Alexander. Ryan is an active member of The Mystick Krewe of Louisianians (Washington Mardi Gras), Krewe of RIO, Krewe of Bonaparte, the Krewe of Endymion and the Krewe of Bacchus. Ryan is a member of the Young Professional Organizations Forum 35 in Baton Rouge and 705 in Lafayette as well as a member and lobbyist for Blueprint Louisiana comprised of many of Louisiana's most prominent business leaders. Outside of politics and carnival time, Ryan is an avid hunter and sportsman and is one of only a handful of members of the historic Winn Hawkins Oak Grove Hunting Club in southern Cameron Parish. Furthermore, Ryan participates in the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, the Baton Rouge Chamber, the Lafayette Chamber and also serves as Vice President of Capitol View Development, operates Louisiana Trading Company LLC, and co-chairs the Haynie Family Foundation.

Born April 4, 1985, in Lafayette, Ryan attended St. Thomas More High School and went to work for Haynie and Associates upon graduating in 2003. Four years later, Ryan graduated from LSU's College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor Degree in Political Science. While an undergraduate, he presided over the Alpha Gamma Chapter of Kappa Alpha Fraternity and served on the Inner Fraternity Council. Ryan married Alana Robert in August of 2012 and they reside in Baton Rouge with their 4 year-old daughter.

Paul Mitchell joins Southern Strategy Group after having served at the top in some of the most powerful executive branch agencies in Florida government. Paul began his career in Florida government in 1988 as an aide to, then Insurance Commissioner, Tom Gallagher. In 1994, Paul was appointed Chief Cabinet Aide to former Secretary of State Sandra Mortham and specialized in financial services, environmental, and education issues. In 1998, following Tom Gallagher's election as Education Commissioner, Paul was asked to serve as the Commissioner's Chief of Staff. Six years and two successful administrations later, Paul continued to serve as Chief of Staff to Tom Gallagher, Florida's first Chief Financial Officer at the Florida Department of Insurance and then at the Department of Financial Services.

An expert in policy and administration, Paul served on several boards and commissions including the E.R.P. (Enterprise Resource Planning) Integration Task Force, a statewide effort initiated by the legislature to improve financial management of taxpayer dollars and modernize state personnel systems. Paul also served with the Florida Commission on Economic Education and the "Just Read Florida" program. Paul currently is on the board for the Florida Juvenile Justice Foundation, which is the direct support organization for the Department of Juvenile Justice.

A native Floridian from Palm Beach County, Paul was a dedicated public servant for more than fifteen years. Prior to entering government, Paul graduated with honors from Florida State University in Political Communications.

15-20 years

Dr. Baker was named an Alumni Fellow at the Penn State University and delivered the commencement address at the College of Agricultural Sciences spring graduation. She also received the prestigious Medal of Honor Award from the Philadelphia Society for the Promotion of Agriculture (PSPA), the oldest (1785) continuously operating agricultural society in the country. PSPA was involved in establishing the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture. In addition, Baker was honored with the esteemed Jefferson Award by the Penn Ag Democrats.

Baker was appointed during the Rendell administration to work in the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture . While there, she directed the educational outreach for the Department.

Dr. Baker owns Versant Strategies, a premier governmental affairs firm focused on agricultural, education, environmental, and rural issues. Versant has represented dozens of clients in the Harrisburg and DC marketplace ranging from small farms and businesses to Fortune 500 companies.

Previously, Baker served in the executive office of the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. While there, she directed the educational outreach for the Department using the knowledge, skills, and traits she perfected during her 20 years behind a teacher’s desk at secondary and post-secondary institutions. Baker served as a faculty member at Penn State, an adjunct professor at North Carolina State University, and was the first woman elected as president of the National Association of Agricultural Educators. She is known across the nation as a published author and columnist with frequent engagements as a motivational keynote speaker and workshop presenter.

MeeCee, husband Jim Garofalo, a retired PA State Police Major who now works with USDA Investigation and Enforcement, and daughter Libby, a former state FFA president (Future Farmers' of America) and current Penn State student, live on the Baker homestead farm in Juniata County.

JORGE CHAMIZO, an attorney and governmental consultant, represents a variety of clients before the Florida Legislature, Executive Office of the Governor, Agency for Healthcare Administration, Florida Department of Health, Florida Public Service Commission, and other state regulatory agencies on matters related to healthcare, energy, telecommunications, professional licensure, public procurement and business regulation.

Before joining the Firm, Jorge served as Chief Advisor to the Chairman of the Florida Public Service Commission, the state agency which regulates Florida's utilities. In that capacity, Jorge gave counsel to the Chairman on legal and policy matters related to telecommunications, energy, water, and wastewater issues coming before the Commission, assisted the Chairman in setting and implementing overall agency policy and direction, served as central contact to industry representatives, and was the Chairman's liaison to the Florida Legislature as well as state and local government agencies. Apart from his legal and governmental experience, Jorge brings to Floridian Partners over a decade of business experience in the insurance industry in the area of marketing, sales and management.

Jorge is an honors graduate from The Florida State University College of Law (J.D., cum laude, 2000) and received his undergraduate degree in Finance from the University of Miami (BBA, 1996). Jorge was honored as a top South Florida lobbyist and the recipient of the Cuban American Bar Association Pro Bono Project award. The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers presented him with the 2014 Presidents Award.

20+ years

Named one of the "Top 20 Most Influential in Politics and Business" by the Wilmington News Journal and DelawareOnline.com for four consecutive years (2021-2024).

In 2022, the RWW team was named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal.

In 2025, I chaired the inaugural festivities for Governor Matt Meyer.

I currently serve as Interim Head of Government Relations at the University of Delaware, sit on the boards of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and UD's Department of Political Science, and teach Lobbying and Influence at University of Delaware's Joseph R. Biden School of Public Policy.

On Attorney General Kathy Jennings Finance Committee On Congresswoman McBride's Finance Committee

Led the Delaware Democratic Party's Coordinated Campaign, including the late Beau Biden's election as Attorney General, and served as a National Committeeman and super delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

Rhett Ruggerio launched his political career in Wilmington, Delaware, managing the successful 2000 mayoral campaign of James M. Baker. He went on to serve as a top advisor to the Mayor, chairing two re-election campaigns and helping secure three terms in office. Rhett also led the Delaware Democratic Party's Coordinated Campaign, including the late Beau Biden's election as Attorney General, and served as a National Committeeman and super delegate to the Democratic National Convention.

In 2025, he chaired the inaugural festivities for Governor Matt Meyer.

Rhett founded Ruggerio Willson & Associates in 2005 (now Ruggerio Willson Watson), a top-ranked firm in Delaware. He's been named one of the "Top 20 Most Influential in Politics and Business" by the Wilmington News Journal and DelawareOnline.com for four consecutive years (2021-2024).

Currently, Rhett serves as Interim Head of Government Relations at the University of Delaware, sits on the boards of the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce and UD's Department of Political Science, and teaches Lobbying and Influence at University of Delaware's Joseph R. Biden School of Public Policy.

Outside of work, Rhett enjoys time at the Delaware beaches, walking his pups Ted and Dixie - or chauffeuring his wife and daughters on a shopping run.

11-15 years

Deemed by the Delaware State News as the most active lobbyist based on the number of bills registered

In 2022, Verity and the RWW team were named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal.

Listed as a member of 40 under 40 in 2023

Served as President and Grants Chair of the Next Generation-South, a local organization that supports nonprofits in Kent and Sussex counties and Secretary of Spur Impact, the nonprofit that puts on the annual Mill Summit.

Served on the school board for First State Military Academy, a public charter school in Kent County. On Lt. Governors Gay's Finance Committee

Staffed a bi-partisain legislative joint committee

Verity Watson joined Ruggerio Willson Watson in 2016 after working for the Delaware General Assembly where she gained an intimate understanding of the legislative process, policy analysis experience, and built strong working relationships with elected officials and state agency leaders. In her current role, Verity guides clients in the creation and execution of strategic government relations plans that result in policy changes, monetary investments, and relationship building with elected officials and government leaders. She works in policy areas ranging from education to energy to health.

During the 2018 legislative session, Verity was deemed by the Delaware State News as the most active lobbyist based on the number of bills registered. In 2022, Verity and the RWA team were named some of the most influential Delawareans in politics by the Delaware News Journal. She was recognized by the Delaware Association of Chiefs of Police for her advocacy.

Verity has served as President and Grants Chair of the Next Generation-South, a local organization that supports nonprofits in Kent and Sussex counties and Secretary of Spur Impact, the nonprofit that puts on the annual Mill Summit. She also served on the school board for First State Military Academy, a public charter school in Kent County. Verity spends much of her free time at the Cape Henlopen and Seashore State Park beaches with her husband and young daughter and son.

15-20 years

David is Chairman Emeritus of McNees Wallace & Nurick, after serving as Chairman of the Firm for 12 years. He now serves as Chair of the McNees PAC and Co-Chairs the McNees Strategic Solutions Group.

David is also a member of the Energy & Environmental and Government Relations Practice Groups. He represents large commercial and industrial consumers of fixed utility services including electricity, natural gas, water/wastewater, and communications, as well as providers of these services. David led legislative and regulatory initiatives to restructure these industries for customer benefit. He has appeared before over 15 state public utility commissions, the FERC, and numerous state and federal appellate courts. David is a registered lobbyist for the Firm and several of the Firm's Clients.

David resides in Hummelstown with his wife, Joanne, and has two adult children, Bret and Lisa.

20+ years

The firm's namesake, Phil Reale is an attorney and government relations consultant who has more than 40 years of experience representing clients in the courtroom and all levels of government. Phil has vast experience in a myriad of public policy areas ranging from oil and gas matters, healthcare policy, gaming and lottery laws in multiple jurisdictions around the U. S., economic development, alcohol policy, and e-government.

Phil is a 1977 graduate of the West Virginia University College of Law. He has been an active member of the Independent Oil and Gas Association of West Virginia, including one term as president of the organization and at all times an effective coordinator of public policy and legislative affairs for the industry in West Virginia. He served on the Board of Directors of Alliance Petroleum Corporation, an exploration and production company with operations in Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. He also served as the Independent Oil and Gas Association representative to Governor Tomblin's Natural Gas Vehicle Task Force. He is often found on the editorial pages of state newspapers offering comments on various issues confronting state government.

He rose to prominence in statewide political circles when in 1988, he chaired the transition team for incoming West Virginia Governor, Gaston Caperton and ultimately served as his Chief of Staff. This role led him into a career of helping guide clients through legislative and government processes. He has served the state in a variety of capacities including that of its representative to the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission for which he served as its Vice Chairman. Additionally, he Co-Chaired the Higher Education Advocacy Team and championed a higher education reform effort, served two terms as Chairman of the State College System of West Virginia Board of Directors, served on the West Virginia Judicial Investigation Commission, the West Virginia Educational Broadcasting Authority, the West Virginia Prepaid College Tuition Trust Fund Board of Directors and has held leadership positions in various political and civic organizations. He is the recipient of two Distinguished West Virginian Awards of Public Service.

Phil has routinely left his mark on statewide political campaigns over his many years of involvement in West Virginia politics and is often consulted by candidates seeking assistance with political strategies.

In addition to being a past Chairman of Special Olympics of West Virginia, Phil maintains an active role in the stewardship of several charitable organizations. Phil is the current Chairman of the West Virginia Golf Hall of Fame, a member of the West Virginia Golf Association Executive Committee and currently serves the organization as its vice-president and chair of its Long Term Planning Committee, and serves on the Leadership Council of the West Virginia University Cancer Institute.

In his spare time, Phil enjoys playing golf and supporting West Virginia Mountaineer athletics.

0-5 years

2019 30 Under 30 by AgGrad

With a focus on rural affairs, I work with numerous members of the legislature. I also engage regularly with the Department of Agriculture, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and Department of Education.

Chief Operating Officer Caleb Wright's roots in Pennsylvania's agricultural community are deep, and accolades earned during his young career have marked him as a voice of rural Pennsylvania's new generation. Raised on a Huntingdon County farm that has borne his family's name for over a century, Caleb grew up as the grandson of the region's renowned veterinarian, Doc Kyper, with a family legacy of serving the rural community. Prior to joining Versant Strategies, he served as a PA State FFA Officer, was a National FFA Officer Candidate, and taught high school agriculture.

Caleb is a graduate of Penn State with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Extension Education. He was named as the College of Agricultural Science's inaugural Emerging Leader Candidate, working one-on-one with the College's Dean. Caleb investigated recruitment and retention of students in Agricultural Education as a Penn State research project. A skilled speaker, his energized commitment to rural education also earned him the Youth Agricultural Award presented by the Penn State Agriculture Council. Wright was elected to Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences Alumni Society Board and also serves on the Board of the PA FFA Foundation.

Along with managing day-to-day operations of the firm, Caleb actively lobbies and assists with organizational management.

Derek Snyder's upbringing in rural Pennsylvania and affection for government and impacting positive change brought him to Versant to combine his strengths and skillsets to help serve client needs.

From a young age, Snyder developed a love for agriculture and advocacy, with his first childhood job being a door-to-door fruit salesman for an Adams County orchard owner. As a middle and high school student, Derek traveled to Harrisburg several times to meet with state representatives and senators to discuss issues that were important to him and his community.

Snyder was born and raised in Cumberland County, where he still resides today. He is the grandson of Luther Snyder, who served as President of the Pennsylvania State Grange and was a Deputy Secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Derek continues his grandparents Grange involvement as a 5th generation member, holding various titles with the Pennsylvania State Grange and National Grange throughout the years.

Prior to joining Versant Strategies, Snyder worked as a legislative reporter for Pennsylvania Legislative Services and most recently served as a legislative aide for State Representative Torren Ecker. In college, he completed an internship with the UK Parliament in the House of Commons where he worked for MP Paul Maynard, who served as Rail Minister in Prime Minister Theresa May's and Boris Johnson's Cabinets. Snyder graduated from Penn State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Corporate Innovation and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.

In his free time, Snyder volunteers on the board of a local non-profit that helps individuals with Traumatic Brain Injuries. He enjoys hiking, Philadelphia and Penn State sports, traveling with his girlfriend Melissa, and spending time with family and friends.

After a lengthy career as a policymaker in government and an administrative lawyer who litigated against government, Paul Bradshaw founded Southern Strategy Group in 1999. Paul's work often strayed from the arcana of policy to the less staid world of political campaigns. In the political realm, Paul worked on several successful statewide campaigns including Jeb Bush's first successful gubernatorial campaign. With a background in Florida government, Paul has dealt with a broad range of major public policy initiatives, including those directed at development, environmental protection, and public education.

Between 1986 and 1990, Paul served in the Martinez Administration as the chief cabinet aide to the Governor, the director of the state's growth management program, and as the director of the Office of Policy and Budget. In those roles Paul was instrumental in advancing Florida's environmental and growth management programs. In 1998, working with then-candidate Jeb Bush, Paul was instrumental in crafting the education plan that ultimately completely re-engineered the K-12 system in Florida. Paul frequently writes speeches for candidates and elected officials, and during the course of his career has authored inaugural addresses and State of the State speeches for three governors.

Paul's broad exposure to both the mechanics of government and bare-knuckled politics give him a rare ability to grasp the policy and political implications of lobbying issues.

Mark Streuli is a lobbyist with over 25 years of experience in government affairs. He's always been enthusiastic about making a difference and that led to a 17-year career with the Washington State Senate helping legislators with multiple policy issues. Mark followed that up with several leadership positions in state government, including the legislative liaison and deputy director of agriculture. In 2018 Mark opened Streuli Public Affairs, where he now serves a broad array of clients through his enthusiastic advocacy on their behalf.

Over the years, Mark has built a broad network of contacts at all levels of government and is known for creating strong and effective coalitions to achieve legislative objectives. He's successfully worked numerous bills and budget requests. In addition, Marks' work in state government has helped hone his expertise in guiding clients through regulatory challenges and the rule making process. Mark places a strong emphasis on client communication. He works hard to build rapport and makes sure the client always has the latest information. In addition, Mark is adept at making sure clients have the tools necessary to communicate effectively with their constituencies. Client success is what drives Mark at Streuli Public Affairs. Over the years, his extensive legislative expertise and network of relationships across all levels of government, has allowed him to deliver professional representation and desirable outcomes.

CHRISTOPHER DURYEA serves as Managing Partner of Statewide Public Affairs. Certainly New York has experienced an unprecedented level of political upheaval over the past several years. As a result, partnering with government has become more challenging. In founding Statewide Public Affairs, Mr. Duryea's vision is to manage a dynamic, experienced and trusted team who excels for our client's government affairs needs within the context of today's challenging environment.

With over two decades of experience working in and around New York politics, Mr. Duryea has well-recognized expertise in assisting clients navigate the complexities of New York state and local government. As Managing Partner, Mr. Duryea is responsible for the continued success of Statewide's clients.

Most recently, Mr. Duryea was a Partner at Marsh, Duryea & Associates where he represented numerous clients and developed a particular expertise on corporate, taxation, economic development, telecommunications and energy matters. Mr. Duryea also previously served as Vice President of the Cable Telecommunications Association of New York, charged with overseeing day-to-day operations and leading government affairs efforts. Here he developed a keen understanding of telecommunications policy issues and trade association management skills.

Mr. Duryea first began building his vast understanding of New York politics as Office Manager for the Onondaga County Democratic Committee, where he worked on numerous Central New York political campaigns. Subsequently he became an expert on the inner workings of Albany, serving as Legislative Director for the Chairman of the New York State Assembly Corporations, Authorities & Commissions and Environmental Conservation Committees.

In May 2012, City & State News named Mr. Duryea as one of "Albany's Rising Stars" noting, "Duryea is a key player." Mr. Duryea is a veteran of the U.S. Navy's submarine service and has a Masters in Political Science from the Rockefeller College at SUNY Albany and a BA in Political Science from SUNY Albany.

15-20 years

Jimmy has been a government relations specialist with the Law Office of Philip A. Reale since 2004. A fixture at the State Capitol since 1992, when he was elected as the youngest member to the 71st West Virginia Legislature at the age of 25.

Jimmy's political prowess is unmatched in West Virginia. He routinely fields calls from candidates seeking his advice and expertise regarding messaging, voting trends and issues of importance to the general public. Jimmy's keen strategic thinking is also of great value at the state capitol, as he is able to create messaging that resonates with members. Jimmy counts several legislative leaders as his close personal friends and clients benefit from his relationships with legislators and executive agency staff alike, as well as his knowledge of the legislative process.

However, Jimmy's greatest gift is friendly demeanor. Though certainly skilled at fervently debating on a client's behalf, Jimmy is sincerely kind to everyone he encounters. His high profile stable of friends and his genuine likeability make him a powerful ally at the statehouse.

Before joining the Law Office of Philip A. Reale, Jimmy served as the Executive Director of the Gilmer County Economic Development Association (GCEDA) for ten years and was responsible for a large number of development projects including the location of a $130 million dollar medium-security Federal Correctional Institution in Gilmer County, employing nearly four hundred people. In order for the prison project to be completed, Jimmy led community efforts to secure grant funding from the federal and state government to provide the necessary infrastructure to the proposed location.

Jimmy lives in Weston with his wife Ronne Dee and their three children.

11-15 years

Nick Streuli is the Founder and Managing Partner of Sundial Advocacy. Prior to becoming a consultant in the private sector, Nick worked in senior executive positions in state government for nearly 15 years helping state agencies and the Governor navigate policy and regulatory challenges. Known for his collaborative problem solving and partnership building savvy, Nick has been at the center of many of the largest legislative and regulatory battles of the last decade.

Previously, Nick served as Governor Jay Inslee's executive director of policy and outreach, where he managed teams in both Washington State and Washington D.C in charge of statewide policy, congressional affairs, international relations, and local government outreach.

Prior to his service with Governor Inslee, Nick worked as the legislative director for the Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). He also worked as the ESD federal government and tribal affairs liaison prior to serving as the legislative director.

He previously served on the Board of Directors for the Washington State Institute for Public Policy (WSIPP), a nonpartisan public research group whose mission is to carry out practical, non-partisan research at the legislature's direction. Nick currently serves on the Advisory Board of the William D. Ruckelshaus Center, a joint effort of Washington State University and the University of Washington to foster collaborative public policy in Washington State and the Pacific Northwest.

Nick lives in Olympia with his partner Christina and their teenage son. He holds a master's degree in business administration and a B.A. in political science and economics, both from Washington State University.

DAVID A. SMITH is a partner in the Princeton Public Affairs Group, is a veteran of the public affairs arena and has successfully managed public affairs campaigns impacting auto insurance, life insurance, tort reform and environmental legislative initiatives. Mr. Smith received national acclaim when he was honored with a ""Pollie Award"" by the American Association of Political Consultants and named to their United States ""Public Affairs Team of the Year." Mr. Smith was also named one of the most influential players in New Jersey's Healthcare arena by the Annual HealthSense Listing. Since 2005, Mr. Smith has been a Commissioner on the New Jersey Motion Picture and Television Commission (nominated by the Governor for two separate four year terms and confirmed by the NJ Senate) and currently serves as an Officer on the Commission (Secretary). Mr. Smith serves on the National Board of Directors of the Public Affairs Council, and was one of the few contract lobbyists in the Country to be appointed to a National Task Force charged with creating ethical standard for lobbyists throughout the United States. Mr. Smith is a founder and member of the Board of Directors of ProtectingAmerica.org, an advocacy organization Co-chaired by James Lee Witt, former Cabinet member under President Clinton and Admiral James Loy, Deputy Director of Homeland Security under President Bush. Mr. Smith also serves as an Officer (1st Vice President) of the New Jersey Hall of Fame Foundation Board of Directors and also serves on the Executive Committee (Secretary) of The Advocacy Group (TAG). Finally, Mr. Smith serves on the Board of Directors as an officer (Treasurer) of the State Capitol Insurance Company RRG, the first professional liability company for lobbyists headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Mr. Smith has appeared on television and radio stations representing clients' interests, authored dozens of articles on politics/policy issues in New Jersey and is a frequent guest speaker/lecturer at national and state conferences, legislative hearings, meetings and seminars. He has been a consultant to statewide and legislative political campaigns and is a member of the Executive Finance Committee of the Assembly Democratic Leadership Committee as well as the New Jersey State Democratic Committee. Prior to joining the firm in 1995, Mr. Smith served as Director of Policy and Planning for the New Jersey General Assembly Democratic Office. In that capacity, Mr. Smith supervised the partisan staff of all Assembly Committees and Task Forces while serving as senior staff aide to the insurance and commerce legislative committees. He was a Director with the New Jersey Dental Association from 1985 to 1990 and served on several national and state health care and insurance advisory committees.

Mr. Smith was awarded a Master of Science in Financial Services (MSFS) Degree from the Richard D. Irwin Graduate School of The American College. He is a Graduate Fellow of the Public Affairs Institute, a three year educational program of the Public Affairs Council located in Washington, DC. Mr. Smith also graduated with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in Political Science from Gettysburg College.