6-10 years

Former Oklahoma State Representative 2014-2020

PhD in Sociology University of Oklahoma

8 yrs as political commentator on a weekly Sunday morning show in Oklahoma, Your Vote Counts, News9 KWTV

6-10 years

Best Lawyers "Ones to Watch": Government Relations

Dieter Raemdonck's practice is focused primarily on government relations matters at the federal, state, and local levels.

As a registered lobbyist, Mr. Raemdonck has invaluable expertise and experience communicating with state, county and municipal officials; state and federal legislators; executive branch employees; and state agencies and regulators. At the Colorado General Assembly, Dieter assists clients with all aspects of the legislative process, including drafting legislation, building coalitions, developing strategies for advocacy and messaging, lobbying legislators, and ultimately achieving clients' desired policy outcomes. His clients have a broad range of priorities, from general business issues to education, energy, real estate, and technology. In addition, he regularly advises and assists clients with political giving programs and campaign finance matters.

Dieter's practice also includes advocating client interests before regulatory bodies at the state and local levels. He often drafts proposed regulations, and represents clients before administrative boards and commissions.

6-10 years

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

Work with state economic development agency and key legislators for passage of legislation to benefit small business

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.

Hillary is a Principal at RSG. After 5 years as an Associate at RSG, in 2020 Hillary was promoted to Principal. Ms. Glass came to Connecticut from Virginia in 2013 to work at the State Capitol for Governor Dannel Malloy. She then took a position at the Connecticut Democratic Party, working directly for the State Party Chairwoman, Nancy DiNardo, serving as a liaison with elected officials, town chairs, and leaders in the state's 169 municipalities. Following her time at the State Party, Ms. Glass served as Finance Assistant for U.S. Representative Elizabeth Esty's 2014 successful reelection to Congress, working directly with the candidate to solicit and raise funds. Ms. Glass, who resides in Hartford, graduated in 2013 from the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Minor in Journalism.

WILLIAM J. MALITSKY began his government affairs career by working directly for two Democratic Speakers of the House of Representatives, learning the intricacies of the legislative process from inside this key leadership office. Following service on behalf of the Speaker, Mr. Malitsky entered the private sector and served as the Director of Government Relations for the Connecticut State Dental Society, one of Connecticut's largest health related associations, and thereafter became associated with a large Hartford lobbying group. During his extensive career as a lobbyist Mr. Malitsky established a strong reputation for being able to accomplish the legislative and administrative goals of his clients. Mr. Malitsky believes in a bipartisan, leave no stone unturned approach to advocacy in Hartford.

Mr. Malitsky has a wealth of experience within state government and brings these talents to the team at FOCUS Government Affairs. During his five years on the staff of the Speaker, Mr. Malitsky developed strong ties to both parties and learned how to navigate the legislative process in order to achieve the goals of adopting legislation. Mr. Malitsky served on the staff of Speaker Richard. J Balducci during the fiscal crisis of the early 90's providing him with a keen understanding of how government can best operate in challenging times.

Mr. Malitsky brings his drive for success and commitment to excellence to the forefront of any challenge. He has a great deal of experience and expertise in crisis management for the clients he represents. Mr. Malitsky has worked on a variety of complex issues such as: insurance, health care, environmental and tax issues, as well as, energy, pharmaceutical, business, education and construction and development issues. Knowledge of the people involved in decision making is a vital role in any lobbying activity. Mr. Malitsky is uniquely able to combine his knowledge of the people involved in State Government with his understanding of the legislative process and provide his clients with a seamless approach to achieving results. Mr. Malitsky is a frequent speaker before client groups, providing them insight into the lawmaking process and best preparing them to advocate for their positions.

0-5 years

MEGHAN LOPER serves as Vice President and has been helping shape State policy for more than decade. She joined CSG with extensive government affairs experience advocating for private businesses and working with elected officials. Ms. Loper has a unique ability to identify policy opportunities, develop effective advocacy strategies and achieve success by utilizing her bipartisan network with key decision-makers.

Prior to joining CSG, Ms. Loper served as Public Policy Director for Majestic Realty Co., one of the nation's largest privately held, family-owned real estate development firms. With Majestic properties playing a critical role in the supply chain, Ms. Loper served on several regional goods movement committees and stakeholder agency advisory groups. She gained extensive experience on transportation issues by serving as the lead staffer for a member of the California Transportation Commission. Ms. Loper was also the Program Director for the Majestic Realty Foundation, collaborating with nonprofits on programs related to health, education, and violence prevention. She advised the Foundation's board of directors and regional planning teams. She developed the curriculum for its flagship program, the Los Angeles Youth Leadership Council.

Ms. Loper was selected for the prestigious Coro Fellows Program in Public Affairs in Los Angeles. Coro is a graduate-level leadership training program that provides experience in the public affairs arena.

Ms. Loper received her MBA from the Marshall School of Business at the University of Southern California. A two-time Trojan grad, she also graduated Cum Laude with departmental honors and holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Policy and Management from the University of Southern California. She serves on Leadership Council for the Sol Price School of Public Policy at USC."

6-10 years

Brian serves as a senior vice president for McGuireWoods Consulting's state government affairs group in Columbia, South Carolina. Brian represents clients before the state legislature, local governments and executive branch agencies.

Representing a diverse group of clients on a range of issues including energy, transportation, education, alcohol, retail and non-profit advocacy, Brian has helped pass legislation related to emerging transportation, alcoholic beverage control laws and the energy industry. He has extensive experience in developing and implementing comprehensive government, grassroots and public affairs strategies for his clients.

Prior to joining McGuireWoods Consulting, Brian worked on a number of political and grassroots campaigns, and worked for Congressman Joe Wilson in his district office. Upon graduation from The Citadel, Brian took a commission in the Army as a Military Intelligence Officer. In 2010, he was deployed to Afghanistan with the 1-178th Field Artillery Battalion and served as the unit's Tactical Intelligence Officer. He is currently a Captain in the South Carolina Army National Guard and serves as the legislative liaison.

Brian lives in Columbia with his wife, where they are raising their two daughters.

11-15 years

Created a law that provided civil and criminal immunity to certain health care professionals and health care facilities during public health emergency and state of emergency; facilitates issuance of certain temporary licenses and certifications during public health emergency and state of emergency

Created a law that prohibits website operators from offering tickets to events by using an Internet domain name that is intentionally misleading or deceptive to consumers.

Guided a lottery courier company through the regulatory process to become the only licensed lottery courier service operating in the state of New Jersey.

Changed NJ's off-shore wind energy law to allow unbundled generation and transmission bids to be accepted, therefore, becoming the first state in the country to change their law to allow transmission only bids for build out to be accepted.

Acquired the largest allotment per student in country for non-public schools through budget appropriations for security aid and nursing services in non-public schools.

Legalized sports betting and online gaming in New Jersey.

Legalization of Dave & Buster's in New Jersey.

Approval by the New Jersey Casino Control Commission to allow MGM Resorts International to re-enter the Atlantic City casino market.

Restructured the law regarding ticket sales in New Jersey. Removed the prohibition on persons, who have access to tickets to an event prior to the tickets' release for sale to the general public, from withholding those tickets from sale to the general public in an amount exceeding 5% of all available seating for the event.

Governor's Finance Committee
Former Executive Director of Assembly Campaign Committee
Former Executive of the New Jersey General Assembly

Mr. Bombardieri served as Executive Director of the New Jersey General Assembly (2002-2004) and has worked on some of the most complex issues in recent times. In addition, Mr. Bombardieri has served as Policy Advisor for the New Jersey General Assembly Majority Office (1996-2001), and was instrumental in the drafting and passage of the New Jersey Energy Deregulation Act. As Policy Advisor in the Assembly Majority Office, Mr. Bombardieri served as the aide to the Assembly Environment Committee, the Assembly Solid & Hazardous Waste Committee, the Assembly Policy & Regulatory Oversight Committee, the Assembly Transportation Committee and the Assembly Telecommunications & Utilities Committee.

Mr. Bombardieri has served in various positions with numerous local, state and federal campaigns, including the Executive Director of the Assembly Campaign Committee (2001 & 2003). His extensive experience running political campaigns has enabled him to develop and execute successful public policy campaigns for some of the world's leading organizations and companies.

Prior to becoming a Partner at CLB Partners, Jon served as Managing Director of a public affairs firm in Princeton, NJ. Jon received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Muhlenberg College.

20+ years

City Council Member, Windsor Heights

Leadership Iowa

Licensed Foster Parent

As President and CEO of Advocacy Strategies, Threase is responsible for the firm's overall business operations and strategy for delivering results. She has been serving clients before the Iowa Legislature for nearly 30 years. This experience has provided her with intimate knowledge of the legislative process and long-standing solid relationships with policymakers, staff, and key opinion leaders across the state. This allows her to tailor a strategy to meet the individual needs of our clients that deliver the best value to you. Advocacy Strategies' clients realize results when working with our team whether with a controversial legislative issue, securing and maintaining state appropriations, or working to find compromise to move issues forward.

In addition to lobbying, Threase has spent more than two decades developing and implementing successful public affairs and grassroots campaigns of all sizes from national campaigns across the country to smaller campaigns in Iowa communities. Her wealth of expertise in this area affords Advocacy Strategies a strong network of relationships with legislative and community leaders and a unique skill set in developing successful and innovative strategies to achieve policy goals that few firms can offer.

Threase started her lobbying career at the University of Northern Iowa as a student, then went on to work in the Iowa Senate on education issues before her employment with the American Cancer Society. From there, she took the position of Director of the Tobacco Use Prevention and Control division within the Iowa Department of Public Health, giving her the opportunity to use her passion to protect families from the hardships of illness and death from tobacco use. With multiple successes in the non-profit sector, Pfizer recruited her to be part of the Worldwide Alliance Development team. She has been an independent government relations contractor for 20 years helping organizations of all types and sizes.

Threase earned a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Iowa State University but remains loyal to her undergraduate alma mater the University of Northern Iowa where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Communication Studies while serving as Student Body President. She also serves as an elected member of the Windsor Heights City Council and on many advisory committees and community organizations.

Threase and her husband, Rick live in Windsor Heights. They have four children and are avid cyclists and licensed foster parents.

11-15 years

Crain's Detroit Business named Sarah in their "40 Under 40" class as well as a "Woman to Watch" in recognition of her work on behalf of businesses in the Detroit region

At Acuitas, Sarah is well known for her collaborative approach to tough client challenges. Her network of contacts across non-profits and the business community provide clients access to much more than her knowledge and understanding of the legislative process.

Sarah's proactive approach to relationship-building with government officials begins long before they are sworn-in to office. The Acuitas team works to meet future public officials before they are overwhelmed by the work of Lansing and continues the relationship as they ascend to positions of leadership.

Prior to the Chamber, Sarah spent 3 years as a Legislative Assistant in the Michigan House of Representatives with former State Representative Willis C. Bullard Jr. (R - Highland Township).

Sarah received her Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan, Master of Public Administration from Western Michigan University and Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

She formerly served on the Board of Directors of the Public Affairs Council, the American Chamber of Commerce Executives, the Woodrow Wilson Centers' Canada Institute, and the University of Michigan Alumni Association.

Crain's Detroit Business named Sarah in their "40 Under 40" class as well as a "Woman to Watch" in recognition of her work on behalf of businesses in the Detroit region.

15-20 years

State Government Affairs Council

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

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

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

11-15 years

Chairman, WV Utilities, Telecommunications and Energy Coalition Leadership West Virginia Class of 2012
Purple Ribbon Award, WV Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Member of West Virginia Chamber of Commerce
Member, WV Utilities, Telecommunications & Energy Coalition
Member West Virginia Press Association
Member WV Business & Industry Council
Member Gas & Oil Assoc. of West Virginia

Scott Cosco was Manager of Governmental and External Affairs for Frontier Communications, a publicly held telecommunications company. He worked with public officials on telecommunications and broadband matters.

Prior to working for Frontier, Scott served in several capacities for Governor Joe Manchin, now a member of the United States Senate. As Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for Governor Manchin, Scott researched prospective state board and commission members on behalf of the Governor and followed through with more than 2,000 appointments. He also was Governor Manchin's state representative for the National Governors Association and Southern Governors Association.

Scott also worked for Senator Manchin when he was West Virginia Secretary of State, helping register 41,000 high school seniors to vote. Before entering government service, Scott was Director of Marketing and Creative Services for six of his 10 years at WOWK-TV in the Charleston/Huntington market.

Scott earned his bachelor's degree in communications from Marshall University.

20+ years

Jay F. Malcynsky, Esq., is the co-founder and managing partner of Gaffney, Bennett and Associates, Inc. Jay is also a practicing attorney licensed in Connecticut and Washington, D.C., and is the founder and managing partner of The Law Offices of Jay F. Malcynsky, P.C. In these capacities, Jay has distinguished himself as one of the most knowledgeable, highly respected, and capable professionals in the fields of government relations and political consulting, as well as administrative law. At the state Capitol, clients and legislators frequently call upon Jay's skills in negotiating agreements, forging alliances, and coordinating crisis management. Under his leadership, Gaffney, Bennett and Associates has mounted a record of success unsurpassed in Connecticut.

Jay has been an active and longtime political strategist. Prior to establishing the firm, Jay managed U.S. Congressman Stewart B. McKinney's political campaigns in 1980 and 1982. He also managed the re-election bids of U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Johnson and U.S. Senator Lowell P. Weicker, in 1984 and 1988, respectively. In 2000, Jay served as campaign manager for Bush for President in Connecticut, and was among the lead attorneys representing the Bush campaign during the Florida recount effort.

He is currently vice chairman of the Board of Directors of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston, and serves on the Boards of Directors of The UConn Foundation, the Nutmeg State Games, and Connecticut Legal Services.

After graduating from law school, Jay served as a trial attorney in the Office of Civil Rights at the U.S. Department of Education in Washington, D.C. He also served as an attorney for the U.S. House of Representatives.

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

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

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

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

0-5 years

A former high-level legislative staffer, Dallas is known at the state Capitol as a trusted advisor.

Dallas began his political career as senior legal counsel for the Office of the Connecticut Speaker of the House, where he represented the Speaker's office in high stakes legal matters, drafted and negotiated major legislation, and provided legal advice to members of the House majority. After leaving the legislature, Dallas joined the Insurance Association of Connecticut as Vice President.

Prior to his career in lobbying and politics, Dallas practiced law at Shipman & Goodwin, one of the top law firms in Connecticut. He also served in judicial clerkships for Connecticut Appellate Judge Lubbie Harper Jr. and Senior United States District Judge Ellen Bree Burns, the first female federal judge in Connecticut.

In addition to his lobbying practice with Roy & Leroy, Dallas is an attorney at the Law Office of Dallas Dodge PLLC. He currently serves as the Corporation Counsel for the Town of West Hartford, where he was previously an elected member of the Town Council.

Dallas received both his undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Connecticut.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Julia Larkin joined Cornerstone Government Affairs in February 2020 with more than 12 years of legislative experience in the state of Illinois. In her role as vice president, Julia uses her skills to help clients in Illinois advance their advocacy goals. Prior to joining Cornerstone, Julia served as the director of advocacy and government relations at AMITA Health, one of the largest health systems in Illinois. During her time in this role, Julia represented the organization's mission with state and local officials and executive agency staff, while also creating and executing strategies to ensure specific policy goals were met.

Previously, Julia served as legislative coordinator to Speaker of the Illinois House Michael J. Madigan for 10 years, where she assisted in the development of a wide array of policy positions and legislative initiatives. Julia has also supported the Democratic Party of Illinois, where she led state representative campaigns, managed opposition research and oversaw state representative candidate recruitment efforts.

Julia received her Bachelor of Arts with a double major in political science and international studies from Loyola University in Chicago.

15-20 years

James Magazine Top Female Lobbyist (2015)

Callie Michael is a seasoned public affairs and government relations professional with a strong track record of advancing complex policy objectives and shaping strategic communications in high-stakes environments. She specializes in advocacy strategy, stakeholder engagement, and results-driven campaigns across sectors. Her career began in Washington, D.C., where she maintained a top-secret DoD security clearance and worked with the U.S. House Appropriations Committee (Defense Subcommittee), gaining rare insight into the federal appropriations process. In Georgia, she served as a principal analyst with the Senate Budget and Evaluation Office, later advising Senate leadership as policy director. For 15 years, she served as Managing Partner at a regional lobbying firm before founding Pratt & Michael Public Affairs. Recognitions include James Magazine Top Female Lobbyist (2015). Callie is a graduate of the University of Alabama and lives in Atlanta.

6-10 years

Matt Latham is a Partner at the 1907 Group, a strategic government affairs and lobbying firm based in Oklahoma City. Originally from Kingfisher, he studied political science at the University of Oklahoma and has built a career helping businesses and organizations navigate the intersection of policy, politics, and strategy across the state.

Matt is known for his relationship-driven approach, focusing on trust, collaboration, and practical solutions that achieve results for clients. Matt recognizes that authentic relationships - both with clients and stakeholders - are the foundation of effective advocacy.

Matt splits his time between Oklahoma City and Medicine Park, where he is deeply involved in local civic life and community projects in both communities. Outside of work, he is an avid sports fan following the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma City Thunder, Swansea City and just about any sport he comes across. He and his better half, Cassi, enjoy travel and spending time outdoors with their dogs.

Stephen R. Kinney , a partner in the firm, joined Gaffney, Bennett and Associates in 1985. A longtime political advisor to Democratic U.S. Senator Christopher J. Dodd, Steve played a pivotal role in Dodd's last four successful re-election bids and in his presidential campaign. Previously, he served as a member of Dodd's staff and acted as a liaison to the Connecticut General Assembly.

On the state level, Steve first earned his political stripes under former Democratic House Speakers Ernest Abate and Irving Stolberg. During their leadership tenures, Steve was principally responsible for coordinating the movement of legislative business on the House floor.

Over the past 30-plus years, Steve's coalition building skills, his knowledge of the legislative process, and his political "sixth sense" have become invaluable assets to the firm. His extensive government relations and political experience are highly regarded by lawmakers and other key decision makers in both Hartford and Washington, D.C. His counsel and expertise are regularly sought on a wide variety of subjects, including: health care, human services, general law, telecommunications, state regulatory and municipal issues, and budget and tax matters.

0-5 years

John Harkins' career awards and recognitions include: "The American Legion Department of Connecticut Certificate Award as the 2009 Legislator of the Year", the 2008 Bridgeport Regional Business Council AT&T "Regional Elected Official Award", the 2004 Walter Wright "Community Spirit Award". He was State Chairman and a former Board Member of the American Legislative Exchange Council. He received the Legislator of the Year Award from ALEC in 2006. He was also the First National Chairman of the American City and County Exchange and received the "Innovative Leadership Award" from ACCE in 2016.

I have served over twenty-two years in elected office on the state and local level. I have been able to develop a vast network on both the state and local level on both sides of the aisle after serving 13 years in the statehouse and 8 years as a mayor. I have also remained active in business and with regional chambers of commerce.

John Harkins was born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, and has been a resident of Connecticut for over 50 years. He received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance from The University of Tulsa in
Oklahoma in 1986. He received his SRA designation from the Appraisal Institute in 1991.

He was the owner of Harkins Appraisal Service, Inc. for over thirty years. Living in Stratford, John Harkins has served his hometown in public office since his election to the Town Council (9th District) in 1995. As Councilman, he was Chairman of the Parks and Recreation Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Roosevelt Forest Commission.

In 1996 he was elected to the Connecticut House of Representatives from the 120th District, comprising central Stratford, beginning his first of seven consecutive terms in the General Assembly in 1997. As a State Representative, his past leadership appointments include serving as the Deputy Minority Leader at Large, House Republican Caucus Chairman, Assistant Minority Leader, and Ranking Member to the Transportation Committee, Select Committee on Aging, and Veterans Affairs Committee.

Serving two four-year terms as Mayor since 2009, Mayor Harkins led Stratford with a steady hand. By focusing on economic development, the town has grown significantly. After decades of inaction, positive progress has been made on Sikorsky Airport and Main Street flooding, the sale and redevelopment of the Army Engine Plant, redevelopment of the Stratford Avenue corridor, Clean up of the Raymark Super Fund Site, and successfully accomplished getting the construction of a full interchange at Exit 33 off of I-95 which has begun in 2020.

A lifelong resident of Stratford, John Harkins has long been active in town affairs and civic groups: (Past President) Stratford Rotary Club, Bridgeport Regional Business Council, SaveStratford.org, and the Raymark Advisory Committee. He also served as co-chairman of the Bridgeport Regional Business Council's Regional Legislative Caucus both as a State Representative and as Mayor, and was past Chairman of the MetroCog. He has recently become a member of the Board of Trustees for The Milford Bank.

He has owned and operated Harkins Real Estate Services and Molter Government Affairs providing clients with lobbying and business development. He is presently affiliated with Rome, Smith, & Lutz Government Relations and is registered as a lobbyist in the State of Connecticut.

Richard F. Conway ("Fritz") , a partner in the firm, joined Gaffney, Bennett and Associates in 1989. He developed his strong political acumen while serving as a political staffer in Hartford and Washington, D.C. He served as senior staff member and advisor to House Republican Leaders Robert Jaekle and Edward Krawiecki, Jr., in Hartford, and as a legislative aide and finance director for U.S. Congressman Stewart B. McKinney in the early 1980s.

As a lobbyist, Fritz has earned great respect for his command and thorough understanding of the election and legislative processes. He provides expert advice to and lobbies on behalf of numerous clients, including Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, financial institutions, and small- to medium-size manufacturers. His areas of expertise include tax and budget policy, manufacturing, energy, telecommunications, banking, transportation, and regulatory matters.

20+ years

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

Work with state economic development agency and key legislators for passage of legislation to benefit small business

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.

Kevin N. Reynolds is a principal of RSG. Prior to that, Mr. Reynolds was a principal and member of the Board of Directors at the law firm of Updike Kelly & Spellacy, PC, serving as Chair of the firm's Government Relations & Public Affairs practice group for eight years. Mr. Reynolds has most recently represented clients such as Amazon, CVS/Caremark, Diageo, Goodwin College, Eversource, Tesla, Red Bull, Trinity Health of New England, Live Nation/Ticketmaster. Mr. Reynolds has great experience representing numerous insurance organizations over the years including, but not limited to, AHIP, Mutual of Omaha, Unum and AFLAC.

As a lawyer, Mr. Reynolds also routinely handles matters in the areas of administrative, elections and municipal law. He was integrally involved in representing Essent Healthcare, over a two-year period, in the state's first non-profit to for-profit hospital conversion.
Prior to attending law school, Mr. Reynolds served for several years on the legislative staff of U.S. Senator Christopher J. Dodd. While working in Senator Dodd's office, his responsibilities included drafting legislation on domestic issues, preparing legislative statements and handling federal casework.

Mr. Reynolds serves in a leadership capacity in various professional, political and community organizations. Since 2000, he has served as Legal Counsel for the Connecticut Democratic Party. Mr. Reynolds is a Corporator of Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center. He also has served as Chairman of the International Council of Shopping Centers, Connecticut State Government Relations Committee. He serves as Parliamentarian for the West Hartford Democratic Town Committee and is an alumnus of Leadership Greater Hartford, Class of 1999. In 2012, Mr. Reynolds received the prestigious William A. O'Neil Award for lifetime service on behalf of the Connecticut Democratic Party.

Mr. Reynolds received his J.D. at the University of Virginia School of Law in Charlottesville, Virginia and his A.B. in English at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio.

0-5 years

Leadership Iowa Graduate

Nick is an experienced government relations, public affairs, and public relations professional with a successful history of executing lobbying and issue campaigns. He began his journey in the political arena at a young age and has had the opportunity to work a number of political campaigns at the local, state, congressional, and even presidential level.

Nick's career has included leading extensive public affairs issue campaigns, communications and public relations efforts, and marketing campaigns across the Midwest and country influencing state and federal policymakers and garnering media attention. He also spent a couple of sessions being fully immersed in the legislative process while working for a committee chairman in the Iowa House.

These diverse experiences have all culminated in Nick's successful ability to execute strategic plans to introduce, pass, block, or amend legislation at the Iowa Statehouse for clients and build strong relationships with lawmakers and stakeholders. From legislative agenda development and interim planning to PAC management and issue campaigns, Nick specializes in elevating a client's message and executing legislative strategies. Nick also leads Advocacy Strategies' administrative rulemaking engagement and media relations efforts on behalf of our clients.

Nick grew up in Byron, MN and made his way to Iowa through Simpson College's John C. Culver Public Policy Center where he was selected as a Fellow. He graduated Simpson with the highest academic honor with majors in Political Science and International Relations and a minor in Religious Studies and also received his Master's Degree in Public Policy and a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration from the University of Northern Iowa.

Outside of work, Nick is actively involved in his church community, local political activism, the Simpson College Alumni Association Board, and serves as the President of the John C. Culver Public Policy Center Alumni Association. He graduated from Leadership Iowa, the state's premier professional leadership development program, in June of 2022.

0-5 years

Lindsay Jacobs has over 12 years of experience working in and building strong relationships at every level of government. Prior to joining the Sullivan & LeShane team, Lindsay served as Advocacy Manager for the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, the state's largest municipal trade association, where she focused on a breadth of issues including education, environment, energy, and banking policy.

Lindsay gained her robust knowledge of municipal issues from her time as Government Affairs and Communications Advisor for the City of Danbury under Mayor Dean Esposito's administration, and her political work with now Commissioner Mark Boughton.

Lindsay holds a BA in International Studies and a minor in History from Emory University in Atlanta, GA. Upon graduation, Lindsay worked with former U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA) in his first run for office, where she developed a deep understanding of the interconnection between policy and politics. Before moving to the Northeast in 2016, Lindsay served as the Political Affairs Manager for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, helping businesses navigate the role politics play in the legislative process.

As a member of the Sullivan & LeShane, Inc. team, Lindsay utilizes her deep knowledge of policy-making and solid statewide network to connect her clients with the right decision makers.

Lindsay currently lives in the Farmington Valley.

15-20 years

0-5 years

Successfully negotiated complex compliance and enforcement issues with state agencies to reduce the penalty liability on behalf of our clients

Successfully obtain various permits and reduced the timeframe for review at regulatory agencies

Provided access to high-level officials at governmental agencies

Analyzed and provided public comments clients on various regulatory proposals

Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection

Mr. Glass provides extensive knowledge of environmental policy and regulatory processes to CLB Partners. Having previously served as Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), Mr. Glass oversaw many high-level projects including $380 million in post-Sandy resiliency projects. In addition, as Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Glass was tasked with overseeing major policy initiatives as well as improving efficiency within the NJDEP.

Prior to being named Deputy Commissioner, Mr. Glass served as Deputy Chief of Staff within the NJDEP. In this role, he forged close relationships with Members of the New Jersey Legislature and New Jersey Congressional Delegation as he oversaw the legislative process for NJDEP and testified before various legislative committees.

Prior to NJDEP, Mr. Glass served as Director of Community Relations for Congressman Leonard Lance. In this role, he forged close relationships with various state, county and local elected officials. In addition to his public service, he has been actively involved in several state and federal campaigns in New Jersey, which serves as an example of his versatility to understand politics as well as public policy.

Mr. Glass received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and History from Rutgers University.

Kevin B. Spinella, a 10-year veteran of Connecticut politics, joined Gaffney, Bennett & Associates' team of eight lobbyists/lawyers on February 3, 2020.

Kevin began his career as a legislative aide and committee clerk for the House Democrats from 2010-14, overseeing all facets of the committee process and supervising five clerks. He also served as a campaign coordinator for the House Democratic caucus during the 2010-18 election cycles, and was responsible for helping develop strategies, prepare for debates and coordinate events with Congressional and US. Senate campaigns.

As senior policy analyst to former CT House Speaker Brendan Sharkey and current Speaker Joe Aresimowicz, for the past six years, Kevin has performed research, helped analyze policies and programs, and drafted and finalized legislation for the leaders and the caucus. He has also negotiated with and served as a liaison between legislators from both political parties the executive branch, lobbyists and advocates on priority issues.

Kevin's experience covering an array of legislative committees and issues on behalf of the House Democratic caucus and leadership has helped him develop a strong understanding of the legislative process and the critical importance of building and managing relationships.

15-20 years

Penn Lincoln Strategies has fostered many relationships with members of the Connecticut legislature, General Assembly staffers, the Office of the Governor, the Office of the Attorney General, the Secretary of State and agency heads.

Chris, as the Founder and CEO of Penn Lincoln Strategies, LLC (PLS), oversees government relations and strategic communications for his firms' multitude of clients. PLS specializes in providing its clients with streamlined and precise consultation for all of their public affairs and advocacy needs. The firm advises client interests before state legislatures around the country, specializing primarily in the Connecticut legislature while, for some clients, managing their day-to-day association operations and providing strategic communications counsel on how to manage press inquiries and crisis communications/public relations.

PLS, established by Chris in 2016, is a full service firm that is proud of the commitment and professionalism it provides its clients.

Before PLS' founding, Chris worked as the Director of Government Relations for Connecticut based company, TicketNetwork, overseeing and managing the company's government relations for all 50 states and the federal government. In concert with the company's legal department and C-Suite, Chris oversaw a robust consultation and travel budget while managing a network of nearly two dozen national government relations and public relations consultants and professionals.

Prior to joining TicketNetwork in 2015, Chris spent over twelve years with the government relations firm Tobin, Carberry, O'Malley, Riley and Salinger (TCORS) a Hartford, CT based firm that specializes in association management and government relations. In the role of Principal, Chris led daily legislative management for dozens of clients on wide ranging issues from environmental regulation to state budgetary issues, gambling issues to freedom of press matters before the Connecticut State Legislature.

Chris got his start in the political field nearly twenty years ago as a political and campaign consultant on numerous successful local and statewide races in Connecticut.

Chris has a B.S. in Political Science from Ohio Dominican University and currently lives in West Hartford, CT with his wife, Maureen, their son Jake and the family dog, Ripken. Chris is an avid Ohio State Buckeyes fan and believes that Die Hard is absolutely a Christmas movie.

20+ years

2010 Agnes Ohlson Diamond Jubilee Award for Outstanding Contributions to Nursing Through Political Action by the Connecticut Nurses' Association

Lori Samele-Bates serves as a Government Relations Specialist in Brown Rudnick's Hartford Office. She focuses on providing public policy services to clients, including administrative and legislative lobbying, as well as aiding in the development and execution of strategies to achieve her clients' goals. She also assists with grass-roots strategies, advocacy and constituent development.

Lori has significant experience advocating to policymakers on the federal, state and local levels. She was formerly the Manager of Government Relations for Cablevision of Connecticut, where she acted as the primary liaison with three regional cable advisory councils and ensured company compliance with Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) regulations. Lori also has experience with the Connecticut State Senate in serving as Supervisor of Legislative Aides, where she worked with Senate leadership officials to create legislative strategies and consensus-building.

Prior to joining Brown Rudnick, Lori worked as a Government Affairs Consultant at Murtha Cullina LLP, where she focused on assisting clients in the environmental, education, energy and health care industries.

20+ years

Anthony Abdelahad, Esq. was named a Top 100 Lobbyists in the Nation by the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics

Ventry is a recipient of the Governmental Relations Professionals of the Year Award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Anthony Abdelahad joined the Ventry team in March of 2006. Anthony directs Ventry's legislative outreach efforts and acts as in-house legal counsel, advising our clients on compliance with state and local regulations. In November of 2022, Anthony was named by his peers as one of the Top 100 Lobbyists in the Nation by the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics. This award was given in recognition of his success in helping his clients secure tens of millions of dollars in government funding, passing groundbreaking legislation on topics ranging from vocational education to insurance industry modernization, and advancing critical policy work across the transportation, health care, and energy sectors.

Prior to joining Ventry, Anthony worked in the Suffolk County court system and clerked at the Law Offices of Kelly & Watson, Hadlock Law Offices, and for the Hon. Edward C. Clifton of the Providence Superior Court. Anthony has also worked on many local, statewide, and national political campaigns, including work for Congressman Michael Capuano and the Campaign for Change's presidential election voter protection legal team in New Hampshire.

Anthony graduated cum laude and with distinction in the International Law Concentration from Suffolk University Law School and is a member of the Massachusetts Bar. He graduated magna cum laude from Providence College with a BA in Political Science.

Anthony lives in South Boston. He served as an appointed member of the Boston Planning and Development Agency's South Boston Dorchester Avenue Planning Initiative Advisory Group. He was a founding member of the Crayons to Cradles Emerging Leaders Council and served on the Friends Council of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Boston.

Paula A. Clarke, Esq. served as Legal Counsel to the House Republican caucus prior to joining Gaffney, Bennett and Associates and the Law Offices of Jay F. Malcynsky, P.C. In 1999, in her capacity as Legal Counsel, Paula developed critical skills in the drafting and screening of proposed legislation. Given her extensive experience working at the State Capitol and with state agencies, Paula is primarily responsible for legislative and administrative lobbying, and provides service to our clients in the areas of law, economic development, and regulatory matters.

0-5 years

Jamie Benda is an Associate Lobbyist with the 1907 Group, where she advocates on behalf of clients before the Oklahoma Legislature and state agencies. Since joining the firm in 2023, she has supported strategic policy initiatives and continued building relationships across state government. Prior to joining the 1907 Group, Jamie served as a professional staffer for the Majority Floor Leader of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, working closely with top legislative leaders and gaining firsthand experience in the policymaking process. Jamie brings a relationship-driven approach to advocacy - combining her experience inside the Capitol with a commitment to delivering results for clients.

Outside of her professional work, Jamie is an active volunteer with the Junior League of Oklahoma City, where she contributes to community initiatives that strengthen and support women and families. She also loves to travel and explore diverse cultures around the world. At home, she enjoys spending time with her three rescue dogs and her husband, who owns and operates two Oklahoma-based businesses.

20+ years

Since 1989, Mr. Dugan has been lobbying legislators, state agency officials, constitutional officers and municipal officials on behalf of a wide variety of clients. As a Capitol lobbyist, Mr. Dugan has assisted numerous corporations, associations and nonprofits navigate the halls of state government. Clients have come to rely on his strategic counsel and advice to achieve success on their legislative and regulatory agendas.

During his over two decades of lobbying Mr. Dugan has represented dozens of clients before state government, included but not limited to: Coca-Cola, Pepsico, Visa, eBay, Diebold Election Systems, Connecticut Society of CPAs, Outdoor Advertisers, Emergency Physicians, Funeral Directors, Physical Therapist, School Psychologists, Town Clerks, The Trust for Public Land and the Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut.

Prior to becoming a Capitol lobbyist, Mike was the 2nd Congressional District Campaign Coordinator for the successful 1986 campaign of then Governor William A. O'Neill. Following that campaign he was the Legislative Assistant for two different Speakers of the Connecticut House of Representatives.

Mr. Dugan was recognized by Hartford Magazine as one of the "Players" among the Lobbyists at the State Capitol. He continues to be active politically, serving as an advisor on numerous statewide and local campaigns. He has served as a delegate to several state and congressional conventions.

11-15 years

Served as GOP State House Caucus Director in 2010
Served as Executive Director for the NC GOP in 2012

Scott Laster has been serving the clients of Kairos Government Affairs since 2013. Beyond his expertise in lobbying, he provides clients with an unprecedented understanding of political giving, polling and campaigns in North Carolina.Scott began his work in North Carolina as the House Campaign Director for the North Carolina Republican Party. Prior to Scott's arrival in the state in 2010, the House GOP caucus was in a state of perpetual minority, having held a majority for only four years in the state's history. As the Campaign Director, Scott led the caucus to a historic victory in 2010 that saw Republicans pick up 16 seats - and claim a 68-52 majority in the House for the second time in history. Following his groundbreaking success, Scott was chosen as Executive Director for the NCGOP to lead the charge for the 2012 elections. Following the 2012 elections, Republicans held a supermajority in both the House and Senate. Scott holds undergraduate degrees in Political Science and Economics from the University of South Florida and a graduate degree in Political Science with a focus on campaigns from the University of Florida. Scott is also a certified EMT and volunteers on a Search and Rescue Team. He and his wife, Kristen, live in Fuquay Varina with their two sons and daughter.

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

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

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

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

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

Jeffrey A. Zyjeski, Esq. ("Zeke") began working for Gaffney, Bennett & Associates in 1998 after completing an internship and working at the state Capitol as a staffer for the Legislature's Judiciary Committee. Jeff worked part-time at Gaffney, Bennett & Associates while in law school and joined the firm and the Law Offices of Jay F. Malcynsky, P.C. in 2002.

Jeff is also licensed to practice law in Massachusetts and before the United States Supreme Court

Jeff graduated cum laude with a B.A. from the University of Connecticut, and received his J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law. Jeff uses his legal and legislative experience to assist clients in matters of law, regulation and transportation. He currently serves as a member of the House of Delegates of the Connecticut Bar Association, and previously served on the Board of the Association of Connecticut Lobbyists.

11-15 years

A native of Buckhannon, West Virginia, Frank Hartman received his B.A. in American Studies (an American Literature and American History combined program) at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, Washington. Upon graduation, he was selected as a Teach for America corps member and served a full two year term as a fourth grade teacher in Baldwin, Louisiana.Accepted at the West Virginia University College of Law, Frank deferred his enrollment to become the statewide field coordinator for the 1996 Joe Manchin for Governor Campaign.After graduating from WVU, he clerked for the Honorable Thomas H. Keadle, Chief Judge of the 26th Judicial Circuit, and then established a family law firm in his home town of Buckhannon. While at Hartman & Hartman, he managed an extensive civil and criminal caseload. Five years into practicing law, Frankreceived a gubernatorial appointment to the West Virginia Insurance Commission as the Consumer Advocate. There he was responsible for the prosecution of consumer complaints in administrative hearings and for monitoring hospital rate filings and certificate of need applications.Hartman served as Consumer Advocate until joining the Charleston law firm of Lewis, Glasser, Casey & Rollins, where he had the opportunity to work with some of the most experienced lawyers in the valley. At Lewis Glasser, Frank litigated real estate, tort, contract, and election law in state court and was a registered lobbyist for business and civil rights interests in West Virginia. Frank is also the founding member of Hartman Law & Government Affairs, PLLC, focusing on litigation, administrative and election law, and criminal defense. A graduate of the 2009 class of Leadership West Virginia, he is a former member of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce Government Relations Committee and former chairman of the Upshur County Democratic Party and current member of the West Virginia Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights.

MICHAEL BZDYRA, Senior Lobbyist at FOCUS Government Affairs, has extensive experience in state government and provides government relations services for a variety of clients. Mike works closely with organizations in the financial industry, business clients, and educational organizations, on a wide variety of issues related to their businesses and government affairs goals. He possesses excellent relationships with the administration, executive branch agencies, the legislature, as well as with local municipal officials across the state.

Mike has more than 30 years of professional experience in Connecticut state government. Most recently from 2016 to 2019, Mike served as Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). He was responsible for the overall operations of the DMV that served millions of customers annually and led the department of 800 employees and managed a $66 million budget. He previously served as the DMV Deputy Commissioner.

Prior to joining the DMV, Mike served as the Government Relations Liaison to the Connecticut Resources Recovery Authority (CRRA). In this role, he was responsible for directing, planning, and implementing CRRA's legislative, governmental, and regulatory activities. He also regularly collaborated with the Connecticut State Legislature, the Governor's office, and executive branch agencies.

In addition, Mike has served as the Senior Policy/Communications Specialist at the Senate Democrat's office and as a legislative aide and clerk for the General Assembly's Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee.

0-5 years

Past president of CT Conference of Municipalities

Recipient of Connecticut Magazine's "Forty under 40" award.

While serving as Mayor, passed municipal budgets, negotiated union contracts, deal with numerous crisis' and natural disasters.

Recognized on several fronts for achievements within the municipal sector. Also served as the Government Affairs Director for a multi-state waste and recycling company dealing with municipal and state policy.

Was elected as the youngest mayor in the state at age 22.

Served eight years in office as Mayor of the Town of Torrington.

11-15 years

Past president of Association of Connecticut Lobbyists

Featured presenter at the CT Lobbying Conference on "Lobbying the Executive Branch" the past four years.

2019 Hartford Business Journal Forty Under 40

Over ten years of municipal land use experience on Planning and Zoning/Zoning Board of Appeals

Served as point person for the CT Conference of Municipalities on Energy, Labor and Zoning topics.

13 years of experience in contract lobbying; three years of experience in state and municipal government.

20+ years

Mr. Layton has spearheaded numerous legislative initiatives that have been enacted into law. The largest of which, lead to the preservation of over a billion dollars in NJCAA member assets by protecting their mineral reserves.

William Layton has over two decades of public affairs experience servicing his clients. Mr. Layton has been recognized for over a decade straight as one of the 100 most powerful people in New Jersey politics by various political websites and magazines. Mr. Layton is one of the founding members of CLB Partners and has been instrumental in its growth from the 21st largest lobbying firm in New Jersey to its recent ranking as third largest.

Prior to founding CLB Partners in 2009, Mr. Layton was and still is the Executive Director of the New Jersey Concrete and Aggregate Association (NJCAA). Mr. Layton has spearheaded numerous legislative initiatives that have been enacted into law. The largest of which, lead to the preservation of over a billion dollars in NJCAA member assets by protecting their mineral reserves.

Mr. Layton also has done extensive work in the gaming industry in New Jersey. His expertise led to the relicensing and licensing of two of the most difficult gaming license issues ever in NJ.

From 1997 through 1998, Mr. Layton served as the Political Director of the New Jersey Republican State Committee during Governor Christie Whitman's re-election campaign. He helped design and execute the Victory '98 program, which involved implementing the voter-contact and get-out-the-vote operations for targeted campaigns.

Mr. Layton is a gubernatorial appointment to the NJ Economic Development Authority. He is the former Chairman of the Burlington County Republican Committee, first elected in 2007 and serving to 2019. Mr. Layton is also a former member of both the Board of Directors of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, and previously served as a trustee for Burlington County College.

Mr. Layton received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Rutgers University, and his Masters of Arts degree in Governmental Affairs from Villanova University. He has one son William, with his late wife Amanda, who is currently a student at the University of Mississippi.

20+ years

Ventry is a recipient of the Governmental Relations Professionals of the Year Award from Boys & Girls Clubs of America

Dennis Murphy founded Ventry Associates in 1999. He began with a vision to create a company that would provide multiple services - Public Relations, Lobbying, and Business Development, to clients across a diverse range of industries. Since then, nearly 23 years have passed, and Ventry Associates has had a proven track record of success that few, if any other firms, can match.

Prior to founding Ventry, Dennis served in the Massachusetts State Legislature for six years representing the 9th Hampden District. In only his second term, he was selected by the House Speaker to serve as Vice Chairman of the Joint Committee on Energy, and in his third term, was elevated to Chairman of the Joint Committee on Energy. During his tenure as Chairman he oversaw numerous legislative initiatives regarding the energy industries.

Dennis holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from American International College. He is also a founder and incorporator of New Valley Bank, and in addition is part of the ownership group of the Springfield Thunderbirds, the American Hockey League affiliate of the St. Louis Blues.

15-20 years

Penn Lincoln Strategies has fostered many relationships with members of the Connecticut legislature, General Assembly staffers, the Office of the Governor, the Office of the Attorney General, the Secretary of State and agency heads.

Liam's background involves a wide range of experience in government relations, public service, and politics. Liam has worked on both national and statewide campaigns, and lobbied on the local, state and national levels.

Prior to joining Penn Lincoln Strategies, LLC in 2017, Liam served as the Director of Government Relations and Political Affairs at ConnCAN, the state's largest education advocacy organization. In that role, Liam coordinated and directed ConnCAN's diverse legislative agenda at the federal, state and local levels. Additionally, Liam worked in tandem with the organization's leadership and various coalitions to develop strategies that improved educational outcomes for Connecticut students.

Before Liam joined ConnCAN, Liam worked for former U.S. Senator Christopher J. Dodd in his district legislative office and Presidential campaign in Iowa and New Hampshire. Liam also supported the Connecticut Senate President Pro Tempore's office where he monitored the Majority's legislative proposals and worked on several key legislative campaigns. Additionally, Liam has worked with a wide range of clients from nonprofit organizations to major utility companies and has had several legislative victories ranging from helping pass the State's nationally recognized Minority Teacher Recruitment legislation, authorizing Electric Bikes in Connecticut and establishing the State's Hemp program.

Liam is a member of the Town Council in West Hartford. Liam is also a founding board member of Active City, a Hartford based non-profit group centered around getting 600+ kids in the area active in youth sports. Liam lives in West Hartford with his wife, Whitney and their children Rory and Claire.

0-5 years

Will Cousineau joined Cornerstone's Springfield, Illinois office in June 2017. Will comes to the firm after nearly 18 years working for Illinois House Speaker Michael J. Madigan, including eight years as political director for the Speaker and the Democratic Party of Illinois.
Will was the longest serving political director for Speaker Madigan and most recently served as senior advisor to the Speaker. Over the past 10 years, Will worked directly with Speaker Madigan to shape, develop and implement the strategy and messaging for the Speaker's legislative and political agenda and the agendas of every member of the House Democratic Caucus. He also developed the implementation of political, legislative and outreach strategies for House Democratic Caucus members and all aspects of the Illinois House's political operation.

During his time with the Speaker's office, Will was involved in the major initiatives that moved through the Legislature over the past ten years, including such legislation concerning utilities, conceal and carry, financial institutions, and civil laws. Additionally, Will was intimately involved in the 2010 drawing of legislative districts, including new districts in the suburban region that have helped House Democrats expand and maintain their majority. While many democratic legislative caucuses across the country lost record numbers of seats during his tenure and every legislative chamber in the Midwest outside Illinois became Republican controlled, Will guided the Illinois House caucus and the Democratic Party of Illinois through a period of expansion and maintained a healthy majority for Illinois House Democrats.

Will's long tenure with the House, experience with message development, crisis management, grassroots organizing and input on political campaigns for offices throughout the state, gives Will an ability to understand complex legislative and political problems, easily digest those issues for members and clients and put together a collaborative and detailed action plan for moving forward.

In 2014, Will and his wife, Macy, adopted three sisters from Latvia. This experience has shaped their family, has given them the opportunity to speak with others about adoption and has encouraged their family to assist others who are adopting children both internationally and domestically. In 2016, Will and Macy's family grew with the arrival of their son.

In his spare time, Will is active in his church and serves on the Board of Elders. Will currently resides in Chatham, IL with his wife and four children.