1) Altria Client Services LLC and its Affiliates
5) CRLPA, LLC.
7) EEG, Inc.
9) Montage Mountain Resorts, LP
10) Padagis US LLC
11) Pavement Coatings Technology Council
12) Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts
13) Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Landowners Alliance
14) Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association
15) Pennsylvania Pork Producers' Strategic Investment Program
16) Philadelphia Association of Retail Druggists
17) Reinford Farms
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.
(850) 681-0024
108 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL, 32301,
The competitive nature of government and public advocacy requires a team with the experience, insight and knowledge to provide results. The Floridian Partners team is composed of individuals from different backgrounds and practice areas, resulting in a dynamic group of advocacy professionals. As a firm, we strive to exceed our clients' expectations with the understanding that our success is based solely upon the success of our clients. We not only represent our clients before the public sector; we also assist our clients in developing business-to-business opportunities.
Our first step in pursuing any client goal is to develop a strategic plan. In the world of advocacy, success is the result of sound strategy, access to decision makers, effective communication and strong execution. In creating and executing a strategy for each of our clients, we bring to bear decades of strategic advocacy experience on major client initiatives in projects spanning from the entitlement of Jungle Island in Miami-Dade County - to the largest privatization of services in the history of the State of Florida - to playing a major role in developing telecommunications and insurance law each year in the State Capitol. In addition to the know-how developed over this time, we also bring to bear the collective scope and depth of relationships developed along the way.
As a result, Floridian Partners operates at all levels of government and is never more than two degrees away from accessing a key decision maker on any given client matter, whether that client needs to impact proposed state legislation, a local or state agency regulation, local government ordinance, the state budget, or a local or State RFP opportunity.
Firm Specialties:
With offices in Tallahassee and Miami, our core services include government affairs, issues management & communications, and business consulting & development. We service clients across all major industries, have influence at all levels of Florida government, and can manage national issues through our multi- state advocacy network.
4) Associated Industries of Florida
5) Bayou City Hemp Company, Inc.
6) Big Lands Transect Collaborative LLC
8) Centene Corporation on behalf of its affiliates and subsidiaries
9) City of Panama City Beach, Florida
10) CNH Industrial America LLC c/o MultiState Associates LLC
11) Cuban American Bar Association Pro Bono Project
12) Dealer Consulting Services
13) Deere & Company c/o MultiState Associates LLC
16) Election Systems & Software, LLC
17) Elevance Health, and its Affiliates
20) Florida Crystals Corporation
27) Lee Memorial Health System
31) Miami6500, LLC
32) Milliman
33) Mobile DMV, LLC
34) MorseLife
35) National Assn of Credit Mgt-Improved Construction Practices Committee
36) National Council on Compensation Insurance
37) North Broward Hospital District
38) Petland, Inc.
40) Retail Services & Systems, Inc. dba Total Wine & More
41) Sachem Holdings, LLC d/b/a Pinnacle Pet
42) SPCA Tampa Bay
43) SSJ Health Foundation, Inc.
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.
I began my career in Delaware politics managing the successful mayoral campaign of James Baker in Wilmington and went on to serve as a senior advisor, helping lead multiple re-election efforts. I've also worked at the state and national level, including leading the Delaware Democratic Party's Coordinated Campaign and serving as a National Committeeman. In 2005, I founded Ruggerio Willson Watson, which has grown into one of Delaware's top government relations firms. Today, I also serve as Interim Head of Government Relations at the University of Delaware and teach lobbying and influence at the Biden School of Public Policy. Throughout my career, I've focused on building strong relationships and delivering strategic advocacy that drives results.
1) ABILITY NETWORK OF DELAWARE
2) ALLIANCE OF AUTOMOBILE MANUFACTURERS INC.
4) AMERICAN COUNCIL OF ENGINEERING COS.
5) AMERICAN MASSAGE THERAPY ASSOC.
7) APPLE INC.
8) ARMORY FILMS
9) ARTESIAN RESOURCES AND ITS AFFLILIATES
10) ASSOCIATION FOR ACCESSIBLE MEDICINES
11) ASSOCIATION OF COASTAL TOWNS
12) ATHLETICO PHYSICAL THERAPY
14) BRAVEN
16) CABLE TV ASSOCIATION OF MD & DE
17) CARFAX INC.
20) CHEMICAL INDUSTRY COUNCIL OF DELAWARE INC.
21) CHRISTIANA CARE CORPORATION
22) CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
23) COMCAST CORP. AND ITS AFFILIATES
24) COMMUNITY EDUCATION BUILDING
25) CONDUENT INC. AND ITS AFFILIATES
26) CORRECTIONAL OFFICER'S ASSN. OF DELAWARE
27) CRODA INC.
28) DAILY PAY
29) DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
30) DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
32) DELAWARE CHARTER SCHOOL NETWORK
33) DELAWARE CITY REFINING COMPANY
34) DELAWARE COMPENSATION RATING BUREAU INC.
35) DELAWARE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES ASSOCIATION
36) DELAWARE HOTEL LODGING ASSN.
37) DELAWARE PARK MANAGEMENT COMPANY LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES
38) DELAWARE POLICE CHIEFS COUNCIL INC
43) EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY ACTION FUND
44) FAITHFUL FRIENDS
45) FMC CORPORATION
46) GAUDENZIA INC.
47) HEALTHCARE DISTRIBUTION ALLIANCE C/O MULTISTATE ASSOCIATION LLC
49) HI-CONE
50) HOME BUILDER ASSN. OF DELAWARE
51) IMPACT LIFE INC.
52) INTERNATIONAL LONGEVITY MARKETS ASSOC.
53) KENT SUSSEX LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE
55) KOOTH USA LLC
56) METRC
57) MODAXO TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT USA INC.
58) NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYER ORGANIZATIONS (NAPEO)
61) OPHELIA
62) ORSTED
65) REHOBOTH-DEWEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
66) RHETT RUGGERIO GOVERNMENT RELATIONS LLC
67) RICHARDS LAYTON & FINGER P.A.
68) RUGGERIO WILLSON & ASSOCIATES LLC.
71) STUBHUB
75) UNITE USA INC. DBA UNITE US
77) UNITED MUSLIM ASSOCIATION OF DELAWARE
78) UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE - OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
80) VSP VISION INC. C/O MUTLISTATE ASSOCIATES LLC
82) XEROX BUSINESS SERVICES LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES
83) ZSCALER
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.
I'm a government relations professional with deep experience in Delaware's legislative and political landscape. I began my career with the Delaware General Assembly, where I developed a strong understanding of the legislative process, and later joined Ruggerio Willson Watson. In my current role, I help clients develop and execute strategic advocacy efforts that drive policy change, secure funding, and build meaningful relationships with state leaders. My work spans key issue areas including education, energy, and healthcare. Recognized as one of the state's most active lobbyists and part of a team named among Delaware's most influential political voices, I bring both policy expertise and strong stakeholder relationships to all of my work.
1) ABILITY NETWORK OF DELAWARE
2) ALLIANCE OF AUTOMOBILE MANUFACTURERS INC.
4) AMERICAN COUNCIL OF ENGINEERING COS.
5) AMERICAN MASSAGE THERAPY ASSOC.
7) APPLE INC.
8) ARMORY FILMS
9) ARTESIAN RESOURCES AND ITS AFFLILIATES
10) ASSOCIATION FOR ACCESSIBLE MEDICINES
11) ASSOCIATION OF COASTAL TOWNS
12) ATHLETICO PHYSICAL THERAPY
14) BRAVEN
16) CABLE TV ASSOCIATION OF MD & DE
17) CARFAX INC.
19) CHEMICAL INDUSTRY COUNCIL OF DELAWARE INC.
20) CHRISTIANA CARE CORPORATION
21) CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
22) COMCAST CORP. AND ITS AFFILIATES
23) COMMUNITY EDUCATION BUILDING
24) CONDUENT INC. AND ITS AFFILIATES
25) CORRECTIONAL OFFICER'S ASSN. OF DELAWARE
26) CRODA INC.
27) DAILY PAY
28) DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
29) DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
31) DELAWARE CHARTER SCHOOL NETWORK
32) DELAWARE CITY REFINING COMPANY
33) DELAWARE COMPENSATION RATING BUREAU INC.
34) DELAWARE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES ASSOCIATION
35) DELAWARE HOTEL LODGING ASSN.
37) DELAWARE POLICE CHIEFS COUNCIL INC
42) EVERYTOWN FOR GUN SAFETY ACTION FUND
43) FAITHFUL FRIENDS
44) FMC CORPORATION
45) GAUDENZIA INC.
46) HEALTHCARE DISTRIBUTION ALLIANCE C/O MULTISTATE ASSOCIATION LLC
48) HI-CONE
49) HOME BUILDER ASSN. OF DELAWARE
50) IMPACT LIFE INC.
51) INTERNATIONAL LONGEVITY MARKETS ASSOC.
52) KENT SUSSEX LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE
54) KOOTH USA LLC
55) METRC
56) MODAXO TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT USA INC.
57) NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYER ORGANIZATIONS (NAPEO)
60) OPHELIA
61) ORSTED
64) REHOBOTH-DEWEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
65) RICHARDS LAYTON & FINGER P.A.
66) RUGGERIO WILLSON & ASSOCIATES LLC.
69) STUBHUB
73) UNITE USA INC. DBA UNITE US
75) UNITED MUSLIM ASSOCIATION OF DELAWARE
76) UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE - OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
78) VSP VISION INC. C/O MUTLISTATE ASSOCIATES LLC
80) XEROX BUSINESS SERVICES LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES
81) ZSCALER
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.
Ron's service as an elected Representative provides inside the Capitol knowledge of the legislative process. This experience and his ongoing relationships with decision makers gives Versant's governmental relations practice an edge in client strategy and service.
1) Altria Client Services LLC and its Affiliates
5) CRLPA, LLC.
8) EEG, Inc.
10) Montage Mountain Resorts, LP
11) Padagis US LLC
12) Pavement Coatings Technology Council
13) Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts
14) Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Landowners Alliance
15) Pennsylvania Pest Management Association
16) Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association
17) Pennsylvania Pork Producers' Strategic Investment Program
18) Philadelphia Association of Retail Druggists
19) Reinford Farms
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.
I've been passionate about politics and public policy for as long as I can remember, with experience across government, campaigns, nonprofit work, and the private sector. I started my career with the Delaware Volunteer Firemen's Association, then went on to serve as Scheduler and Executive Assistant to U.S. Senator Tom Carper, where I gained firsthand experience in federal operations and stakeholder engagement. Since then, I've worked on statewide campaigns, led education reform efforts, and most recently directed government relations for Valero Energy in Delaware, where I represented the company at all levels of government and helped navigate complex policy challenges. Today, I leverage that experience to build strong relationships and drive effective advocacy strategies that deliver results.
1) ABILITY NETWORK OF DELAWARE
2) ALLIANCE OF AUTOMOBILE MANUFACTURERS INC.
4) AMERICAN COUNCIL OF ENGINEERING COS.
5) AMERICAN MASSAGE THERAPY ASSOC.
7) APPLE INC.
8) ARMORY FILMS
9) ARTESIAN RESOURCES AND ITS AFFLILIATES
10) ASSOCIATION FOR ACCESSIBLE MEDICINES
11) ASSOCIATION OF COASTAL TOWNS
12) ATHLETICO PHYSICAL THERAPY
14) BRAVEN
16) CABLE TV ASSOCIATION OF MD & DE
19) CHEMICAL INDUSTRY COUNCIL OF DELAWARE INC.
20) CHRISTIANA CARE CORPORATION
21) CNH INDUSTRIAL AMERICA LLC
22) COMCAST CORP. AND ITS AFFILIATES
23) COMMUNITY EDUCATION BUILDING
24) CONDUENT INC. AND ITS AFFILIATES
25) CORRECTIONAL OFFICER'S ASSN. OF DELAWARE
26) CRODA INC.
27) DAILY PAY
28) DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS
29) DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS
31) DELAWARE CHARTER SCHOOL NETWORK
32) DELAWARE CITY REFINING COMPANY
33) DELAWARE COMPENSATION RATING BUREAU INC.
34) DELAWARE HEALTH CARE FACILITIES ASSOCIATION
35) DELAWARE HOTEL LODGING ASSN.
36) DELAWARE PARK MANAGEMENT COMPANY LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES
37) DELAWARE POLICE CHIEFS COUNCIL INC
38) DELAWARE RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION
43) FAITHFUL FRIENDS
44) FMC CORPORATION
45) GAUDENZIA INC.
46) HEALTHCARE DISTRIBUTION ALLIANCE C/O MULTISTATE ASSOCIATION LLC
48) HI-CONE
49) HOME BUILDER ASSN. OF DELAWARE
50) IMPACT LIFE INC.
51) INTERNATIONAL LONGEVITY MARKETS ASSOC.
52) KENT SUSSEX LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE
54) KOOTH USA LLC
55) LOWDIGITTAGS.COM
56) METRC
57) MODAXO TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT USA INC.
58) NATIONAL PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYER ORGANIZATIONS (NAPEO)
61) OPHELIA
62) ORSTED
65) REHOBOTH-DEWEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
66) RHETT RUGGERIO GOVERNMENT RELATIONS LLC
67) RICHARDS LAYTON & FINGER P.A.
68) RUGGERIO WILLSON & ASSOCIATES LLC.
71) STUBHUB
75) UNITE USA INC. DBA UNITE US
77) UNITED MUSLIM ASSOCIATION OF DELAWARE
78) UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARE - OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS
80) VSP VISION INC. C/O MUTLISTATE ASSOCIATES LLC
82) XEROX BUSINESS SERVICES LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES
83) ZSCALER
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.
717-319-4638
300 N Second Street, Suite 1002, Harrisburg, PA, 17101,
Subjects: All Subjects, Agencies/Regulations, Alcohol, Animals/Agriculture, Appropriations/Budgets, Business/Commerce, Cannabis/Drug Legalization, Children/Family/Women, City/County Government, Civil Rights, Consumer Protection, Corrections/Criminal Justice, Education, Energy/Utilities, Environment/Recycling, Finance/Banking, Food/Restaurants, Gaming, Manufacturing, Non-Profit, Pharmaceuticals, Planning/Land Use/Zoning, Privacy/Internet, Professional/Vocational Licensing, Public Safety, Public Sector, Retail, RFP/Procurement, Science/Technology, Taxes, Telecommunications, Tobacco, Tourism/Hospitality, Transportation/Vehicles
Links:Website
Versant means "having good knowledge of" and clients benefit from our in-depth industry knowledge and skills on the Hill. We help clients ranging from small farms and businesses to Fortune 500 companies send the right message to the right people who can affect action on their behalf. Our expertise in navigating legislative and regulatory issues provides you with a powerful partner for nearly any organizational or governmental relations concern. In addition, our network of relationships can open up opportunities for business development.
1) Altria Client Services LLC and its Affiliates
5) CRLPA, LLC.
8) EEG, Inc.
10) Montage Mountain Resorts, LP
11) Padagis US LLC
12) Pavement Coatings Technology Council
13) Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts
14) Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Landowners Alliance
15) Pennsylvania Pest Management Association
16) Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association
17) Pennsylvania Pork Producers' Strategic Investment Program
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.
717-860-8463
300 N Second Street, Suite 1002, Harrisburg, PA, 17101,
Subjects: All Subjects, Agencies/Regulations, Alcohol, Animals/Agriculture, Appropriations/Budgets, Business/Commerce, Cannabis/Drug Legalization, Children/Family/Women, City/County Government, Consumer Protection, Education, Energy/Utilities, Environment/Recycling, Finance/Banking, Food/Restaurants, Housing/Real Estate/Development/Construction, Immigration, Manufacturing, Pharmaceuticals, Planning/Land Use/Zoning, Professional/Vocational Licensing, Public Sector, RFP/Procurement, Science/Technology, Telecommunications, Tobacco, Tourism/Hospitality
Links:Website
MeeCee Baker's name is synonymous with agricultural and rural issues in Pennsylvania. MeeCee's commitment, experience and knowledge coupled with her networking skills, make her a uniquely efficient and effective advocate.
1) Altria Client Services LLC and its Affiliates
5) CRLPA, LLC.
8) EEG, Inc.
10) Montage Mountain Resorts, LP
11) Padagis US LLC
12) Pavement Coatings Technology Council
13) Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts
14) Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Landowners Alliance
15) Pennsylvania Pest Management Association
16) Pennsylvania Pharmacists Association
17) Pennsylvania Pork Producers' Strategic Investment Program
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.
6053312975
Pierre, SD, 57501,
1) ALLIANCE FOR AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION
3) BLACK HILLS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
8) FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF AMERICA
9) FGA ACTION
10) HENRY CARLSON CONSTRUCTION, LLC
717-234-5424
121 State Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17101,
4) Community Associations Institute Pennsylvania Legislative Action Committee
5) Community Services Group, Inc
6) Conservative Energy Network
9) East Penn Real Estate, Inc/City Center
717-238-5424
121 State Street, Suite 600, HARRISBURG, PA, 17101,
5) Clearview Asset Protection, LLC
7) Community Services Group, Inc
8) Conservative Energy Network
10) Deere & Company
12) East Penn Real Estate, Inc/City Center
14) Enhanced Capital
15) Family First Homecare of Pennsylvania
16) GIRARD COLLEGE
17) Harristown Enterprises, Inc.
18) IBEW Local 614
20) Jefferson Health Corporation (f/k/a Albert Einstein Healthcare Network)
22) LEHIGH VALLEY HOSPITAL & HEALTH NETWORK
25) Municipality of Norristown
26) PA Leadership Charter School
28) Philadelphia Housing Authority
29) PHILADELPHIA TECHNICIAN TRAINING INSTITUTE
30) Prominent Tech
31) Special People In Northeast, Inc.
32) Stride, Inc.
33) Tesla, Inc.
(850) 681-0024
108 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL, 32301,
2) American International Group, Inc
3) Associated Industries of Florida
5) CNH Industrial America LLC c/o MultiState Associates LLC
8) Deere & Company c/o MultiState Associates LLC
9) Election Systems & Software, LLC
11) Florida Family Insurance Company
12) Florida Gulf Coast University
13) Florida Health Care Association
18) Lee Memorial Health System
20) National Assn of Credit Mgt-Improved Construction Practices Committee
21) Petland, Inc.
23) South Central Florida Express, Inc
24) Southern Gardens Citrus Groves Corporation
25) Southern Gardens Citrus Holding Corporation
26) Southern Gardens Citrus Nursery Corporation
28) Suncoast Beverage Sales, LLP
30) Tew & Taylor
26 North Jefferson Rd, South Burlington, VT, 05402,
802-922-4112
26 North Jefferson Rd, South Burlington, VT, 05403,
2) Alliance For Automotive Innovation
3) Ancestry.com Operations Inc.
5) Association For Accessible Medicines
6) Blue Cross Blue Shield Of Vermont
7) Cnh Industrial America Llc Multistate Associates Llc
8) Coalition For Genetic Data Protection
9) Cookware Sustainability Alliance C.o. Multistate Associates Llc
10) Deere & Company Multistate Associates Llc
11) Elrac, Llc
6053312975
Sioux Falls, SD, 57103,
1) ALLIANCE FOR AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION
3) BLACK HILLS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
8) FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF AMERICA
9) FGA ACTION
10) HENRY CARLSON CONSTRUCTION, LLC
612-766-8876
90 S. 7th Street, Minneapolis, MN, 55402,
1) Anoka County
3) Assn of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM)
4) Burlington Northern and Sante Fe Railway Co (BNSF)
5) CHS, Inc.
7) Contractors Association of MN
612-766-7000
90 S 7th St, Minneapolis, MN, 55402,
1) American Chemistry Council, Inc.
2) American Cleaning Institute
3) Anoka County
5) Assn of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM)
6) Burlington Northern and Sante Fe Railway Co (BNSF)
7) CHS, Inc.
9) Contractors Association of MN
10) Corteva, Inc.
11) Deere & Company
15) M A Mortenson Co
16) Meriweather Minnesota Land & Timber LLC
17) Minneapolis Downtown Council
18) Minneapolis Municipal Retirement Assn (MMRA)
19) Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce
20) Mission Health
21) MN Council of Health Plans
22) MN Private College Council
24) NetChoice
26) Tenaska
27) Wells Fargo & Co
6053312975
Harrisburg, SD, 57032,
1) ALLIANCE FOR AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION
3) BLACK HILLS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
8) FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF AMERICA
9) FGA ACTION
10) HENRY CARLSON CONSTRUCTION, LLC
802-922-4112
26 North Jefferson Rd, South Burlington, VT, 05403,
2) Alliance For Automotive Innovation
3) Ancestry.com Operations Inc.
5) Association For Accessible Medicines
6) Blue Cross Blue Shield Of Vermont
7) Cnh Industrial America Llc Multistate Associates Llc
8) Coalition For Genetic Data Protection
9) Cookware Sustainability Alliance C.o. Multistate Associates Llc
10) Deere & Company Multistate Associates Llc
11) Elrac, Llc
6053312975
Sioux Falls, SD, 57105,
1) ALLIANCE FOR AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION
3) BLACK HILLS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
8) FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF AMERICA
9) FGA ACTION
10) HENRY CARLSON CONSTRUCTION, LLC
6053312975
Sioux Falls, SD, 57103,
1) ALLIANCE FOR AUTOMOTIVE INNOVATION
3) BLACK HILLS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION
8) FARM CREDIT SERVICES OF AMERICA
9) FGA ACTION
10) HENRY CARLSON CONSTRUCTION, LLC
(850) 681-0024
108 S Monroe St, Tallahassee, FL, 32301-1584,
2) Associated Industries of Florida
3) Bayou City Hemp Company, Inc.
5) City of Panama City Beach, Florida
6) CNH Industrial America LLC c/o MultiState Associates LLC
7) Deere & Company c/o MultiState Associates LLC
10) EarnIn
2626310881
Kenosha, WI, 53404,
720-837-6726
3025 N. Josephine St., Denver, CO, 80205,
