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COLLEEN KOPP

  • 717-233-1111

  • 30 North Third Street, Suite 950HarrisburgPA17101

Subjects: All Subjects

Links:Website

15-20 years

NATHAN POSS

  • 615-242-7406

  • 511 Union StreetSuite 1820NashvilleTN37219

Subjects: All Subjects

Links:LinkedIn

Nathan Poss has over 20 years of experience in both the public and private sector. His focus is to provide clients with a comprehensive range of services, including: legislative drafting and tracking, policy development, governmental lobbying (at all levels), strategy development, and business procurement.



Prior to forming JohnsonPossKirby Government Relations in 2007, Nathan served as a principal at Smith Johnson & Carr, focusing on lobbying efforts for the firm's business clients and taking the lead on procurement strategies.



Before entering into the lobbying world, Nathan served seven years on Capitol Hill as a legislative assistant to then Speaker Pro Tempore of the Senate, State Senator Bob Rochelle. During his tenure with the state, he played an important part in writing and developing legislation, organizing political strategies, building coalitions, and monitoring legislation for committees. Poss has also been actively involved in numerous successful political campaigns.



Poss has built a reputation of hard work and respect among those on Capitol Hill. Working with major players in the state's business community, he has served as a key strategist on major environmental and tax issues. Nathan has garnered a reputation for producing tangible results through well-executed and intricate lobbying efforts designed to achieve long lasting success for his clients.

In addition to his lobbying successes, Nathan has extensive experience with the procurement process in Tennessee. Recently recognized by the TN Report for being known as an "expert in the state's purchasing practices," Nathan has cultivated the necessary connections with top-level decision makers throughout all areas of state government. Throughout his practice he has developed a strong grasp of the state's purchasing processes, and has successfully secured multi-million dollar purchases for numerous clients.

Nathan is a graduate of Cumberland University with a B.A. in Social Science. A native Tennessean, Nathan grew up in Lebanon and currently lives in Green Hills with his wife Molly.

BILL PEWITT

Lobbying since 1977, Bill Pewitt has developed key relationships throughout his career with not only legislators and staff but also those in the lobby whose subject matter expertise is often critical to the success of his client's endeavors. Whether through technical policy proficiency or knowing how to find the best advocates of a client's particular interests within the government, Bill has the familiarity with the legislative process that can best facilitate a client's needs.

AT BILL PEWITT & ASSOCIATES WE SPEAK THE LANGUAGE OF BOTH THE CLIENT AND THE LEGISLATURE. WE ARE THE INTERPRETERS WHO BRING UNDERSTANDING TO BOTH SIDES AND TRANSLATE OPPORTUNITY INTO ACTION AND SUCCESS.

STRATEGY
Our firm knows state and local government in Texas. We have dealt with lawmakers and executives for 35 years guiding our clients through the governmental process to achieve their goals. Paramount is selecting the best path to success for our clients, whether that is choosing strategic alignments with other players or bringing other resources to bear. We determine clear goals and put together the winning team of resources to reach that goal.

ADVOCACY
We have worked with dozens of clients both as lead lobbyist or as part of a team. We can lead, follow or get out of the way. Our firm has adapted to meet whatever circumstances the situation calls for. Monitoring the legislative process and connecting with the correct decision makers makes the difference.

PROCUREMENT
We have over 30 years experience with technology procurement in the state of Texas, beginning in 1984 with the creation of the Texas Computer Industry Council, the first statewide trade association for the nascent technology industry. Together we bring experience and mature relationships with high level officials, along with growing relationships with state agency division directors and managers who are more hands-on in day to day operations. From these multiple layers of our relationships we develop opportunities for our clients.

20+ years

DARREN SMITH

  • 215-735-6660

  • 200 S. Broad StreetSuite 1100PhiladelphiaPA19102

Subjects: All Subjects

Links:Website

6-10 years

MARK RICHARDS

Subjects: All Subjects

Links:Website

15-20 years

JOHN FAVAZZA

One of the premier lobbying firms in Annapolis, Manis Canning & Associates (MCA) has been representing the interests of its clients for almost 50 years, dating back to 1974. Our team collectively has more than 100 years of experience working with legislatures, executives, and regulators in local, state and federal governments.

We provide creative, proactive government affairs, public relations, business and trade association management strategies and programs to a diverse group of clients. We conduct ourselves in a bipartisan manner and pride ourselves in our ability to build and manage effective grassroots organizations and issue-based coalitions. We believe credibility is essential to maintaining our firm's good name and the good name of our clients, and preserving that commodity is of paramount importance.

20+ years

  • The Motion Picture Association of America began its relationship with MCA in 1974, working with Co-Founder George Manis. We can't imagine working with anyone else. They anticipate our issues and their professionalism and integrity is unmatched in Annapolis. For decades, it has been clear to MPAA that their relationships with elected leaders are based on trust and mutual respect. - Vans Stevenson, Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs, Motion Picture Association of America
  • No matter how large or small, I can always trust MCA to dive into the substance of an issue. Their experience working at the highest levels of State and local government gives them a unique command of both the process and the issues. There is no one I'd rather work with in Annapolis. - Anne Lindner, Vice President of State Legislative Affairs, Pepco Holdings
  • MCA continues to help us navigate the complexities of one of the largest and most important urban renewal projects in the country, Port Covington. Available at all times, day or night, I know I can count on them for their strong grasp of the issues and effective leadership. - Marc Weller, President and CEO Weller Development Company
  • We turned to MCA help secure funding for our new Regional Youth Workforce and Innovation Center. They have become a trusted partner and advisor, not just for our new Center, but also on efforts to expand career and technical exploration in the K-12 school system. - Jennifer Bodensiek, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
  • We added MCA to our team when we needed timely advice on an issue of great importance to the company. They quickly brought themselves up to speed and knew the players to get the job done. We can't thank them enough for their results- oriented approach. Their knowledge of all levels and branches of Maryland government has been invaluable. - Brett Kelly, Vice President, Fraport Maryland (formerly Airmall Maryland)
  • It isn't easy to start a new business - let alone a new industry. MCA gave the medical cannabis growers and processors in our organization instant credibility, and a powerful voice in Annapolis. With their help, we have gotten our businesses off the ground and are delivering a safe, reliable and affordable medical product to Maryland patients. - Jake Van Wingerden, owner of SunMed Growers and past President of the Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD)
  • I've worked with MCA for many years, and I have always been impressed by their thorough approach to government affairs. They work in a bipartisan manner to get results for their clients and they are clearly respected on both sides of the aisle by elected officials and staff alike. The MCA team has helped facilitate relationships and presented opportunities for me to communicate directly with policymakers about issues important to my business. - Gary Mangum, co-Founder of ForwardGro and former CEO of Bell Nursery
  • Accomplishing goals in Annapolis depends in large measure on mutual trust and mastery of the legislative process, two attributes that John F. Favazza, Esq., has honed through his experiences in Annapolis and applies now as a member of the MCA firm.

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

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

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

    SHANNON DAWSON

    • 717-233-1111

    • 30 North Third Street, Suite 950HarrisburgPA17101

    Subjects: All Subjects

    Links:Website

    11-15 years

    STEVEN CRAWFORD

    Subjects: All Subjects

    Links:Website

    11-15 years

    NIAL PATEL

    • 225-201-8930

    • 304 LAUREL STREETSUITE 1ABATON ROUGELOUISIANA70801

    Former senior staffer to Governor Bobby Jindal

    Top Forty Under 40, Business Report in 2014

    National Finance Committee member, Republican Governors Association

    Chairman of Emerging Leaders Council, Louisiana Association of Business and Industry

    Nial Patel joined Cornerstone Government Affairs in 2011 after more than seven years of service to Governor Bobby Jindal, dating back to his first run for governor in 2003. As one of the longest serving senior staff members for the Governor, Nial worked as the director of scheduling. Additionally, when Governor Jindal was elected to Congress, Nial served as his executive assistant. During his tenure with Jindal, Nial's duties varied from campaigning to research and outreach, working with elected politicians, stakeholders, and government officials from Washington, D.C. and across the state of Louisiana.

    Nial holds a Masters in Economics from the Ourso College of Business at Louisiana State University (LSU), and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Economics from LSU, where he also minored Political Science and Business Administration.

    Originally from New Orleans, Nial attended Holy Cross High School and the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts. In 2014, he was recognized as one of the top forty under 40 leaders in the community, and is alum of the Baton Rouge Leadership and Louisiana Leadership programs. Nial serves on the Southeast Super Region Committee, Greater New Orleans Inc.'s Next Gen Council, New Schools for Baton Rouge Board, Teach for America Board, and is Chairman of Louisiana Association of Business and Industry's Emerging Leaders Council. He has helped raised money for the American Cancer Society, Republican Governor's Association, and several elected officials. Nial currently resides in Baton Rouge.

    SAMIRA JACKSON

    Hi, I'm Samira Jackson, an attorney and government affairs professional with a strong background in law, negotiation, and client advocacy. I bring a results-driven, strategic approach to navigating complex legal and policy challenges, shaped by my experience in both private practice and the professional sports industry - where I made history as part of the first mother-daughter duo to become NFL certified agents.

    At Manis Canning & Associates, I combine my legal acumen and litigation experience with a solid and growing understanding of Maryland's legislative landscape to advance my clients' interests effectively. I'm known for my integrity, work ethic, and ability to manage high-stakes negotiations, whether in the courtroom, the boardroom, or the State House. Though I'm early in my lobbying career, I've already demonstrated my ability to adapt quickly, think strategically, and deliver results in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.

    0-5 years

    Member of the Maryland State Bar Association

    Member of the Montgomery County Bar Association

    Member of the Montgomery County Women's Bar Association

    Member of the Prince George's County Bar Association

    Member of the National Black Professional Lobbyists Association

    Member of Community Legal Services of Prince George's County Board of Directors

    Member of the Bullis School Alumni Board

    Samira A. Jackson, Esq., a rising star attorney and trusted advocate, brings her proven expertise in law, negotiation, and client advocacy to Manis Canning & Associates (MCA). Known for her intellect, work ethic, and thoughtful approach, Samira has built a reputation as a dynamic problem-solver with the ability to effectively navigate complex legal and policy matters.

    Before joining MCA, Samira distinguished herself in private practice specializing in family law and professional sports contract negotiation. She made history alongside her mother as the first-ever mother-daughter duo to become NFL certified agents, where she provided comprehensive guidance to professional athletes, including contract negotiations, legal counsel, and post-career planning. This experience has cemented her ability to manage high-stakes negotiations and serve as a trusted steward of her clients' interests.

    Samira is highly regarded for her integrity and professionalism. Her mentors and colleagues have noted, "Anything that Samira puts her mind and heart to, it's a matter of when, not if." Her dedication to achieving results aligns seamlessly with MCA's reputation for credibility, teamwork, and leadership in Maryland government affairs.

    A proud University of Maryland, College Park alumna with a B.A. in Communication, Samira earned her J.D. with a certificate in Intellectual Property from St. Thomas University's Benjamin L. Crump School of Law. She is a member of the Maryland Bar and an active volunteer, mentoring aspiring young women attorneys through the Montgomery County Women's Bar Association and providing pro bono services with Community Legal Services of Prince George's County.

    Samira has two rescue dogs, Gloria and Fred, and is a Montgomery County, Maryland native. With her combination of legal acumen, negotiation skills, and commitment to service, Samira is poised to deliver impactful results for MCA's clients in Annapolis and beyond.

    ANDREA MANSFIELD

    One of the premier lobbying firms in Annapolis, Manis Canning & Associates (MCA) has been representing the interests of its clients for almost 50 years, dating back to 1974. Our team collectively has more than 100 years of experience working with legislatures, executives, and regulators in local, state and federal governments.

    We provide creative, proactive government affairs, public relations, business and trade association management strategies and programs to a diverse group of clients. We conduct ourselves in a bipartisan manner and pride ourselves in our ability to build and manage effective grassroots organizations and issue-based coalitions. We believe credibility is essential to maintaining our firm's good name and the good name of our clients, and preserving that commodity is of paramount importance.

    20+ years

    Leadership Maryland Board and is a member of the class of 2019

    University of Maryland Baltimore County School of Public Policy External Advisory Board

    Maryland Economic Development Association Board and Co-Chair of the Public Policy Awareness Committee

    Chair, Odenton Town Center Advisory Committee

  • The Motion Picture Association of America began its relationship with MCA in 1974, working with Co-Founder George Manis. We can't imagine working with anyone else. They anticipate our issues and their professionalism and integrity is unmatched in Annapolis. For decades, it has been clear to MPAA that their relationships with elected leaders are based on trust and mutual respect. - Vans Stevenson, Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs, Motion Picture Association of America
  • No matter how large or small, I can always trust MCA to dive into the substance of an issue. Their experience working at the highest levels of State and local government gives them a unique command of both the process and the issues. There is no one I'd rather work with in Annapolis. - Anne Lindner, Vice President of State Legislative Affairs, Pepco Holdings
  • MCA continues to help us navigate the complexities of one of the largest and most important urban renewal projects in the country, Port Covington. Available at all times, day or night, I know I can count on them for their strong grasp of the issues and effective leadership. - Marc Weller, President and CEO Weller Development Company
  • We turned to MCA help secure funding for our new Regional Youth Workforce and Innovation Center. They have become a trusted partner and advisor, not just for our new Center, but also on efforts to expand career and technical exploration in the K-12 school system. - Jennifer Bodensiek, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
  • We added MCA to our team when we needed timely advice on an issue of great importance to the company. They quickly brought themselves up to speed and knew the players to get the job done. We can't thank them enough for their results- oriented approach. Their knowledge of all levels and branches of Maryland government has been invaluable. - Brett Kelly, Vice President, Fraport Maryland (formerly Airmall Maryland)
  • I've worked with MCA for many years, and I have always been impressed by their thorough approach to government affairs. They work in a bipartisan manner to get results for their clients and they are clearly respected on both sides of the aisle by elected officials and staff alike. The MCA team has helped facilitate relationships and presented opportunities for me to communicate directly with policymakers about issues important to my business. - Gary Mangum, co-Founder of ForwardGro and former CEO of Bell Nursery
  • It isn't easy to start a new business - let alone a new industry. MCA gave the medical cannabis growers and processors in our organization instant credibility, and a powerful voice in Annapolis. With their help, we have gotten our businesses off the ground and are delivering a safe, reliable and affordable medical product to Maryland patients. - Jake Van Wingerden, owner of SunMed Growers and past President of the Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD)
  • With more than 20 years of government relations, management, and administration expertise, Andrea E. Mansfield brings her ability to successfully execute advocacy efforts and programs to Manis Canning. Her broad experience and involvement with the Maryland Legislature on policy, fiscal and budget matters; and her ability to work with diverse groups and build consensus on complex issues is an asset to the firm.

    Andrea has extensive experience at the state and local level, having led and coordinated policy efforts for the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) and implemented the legislative agendas of state agencies. As MACo's Legislative Director she advised, crafted, and implemented the common agendas and legislative goals of Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City.

    In state government, she worked within three Administrations in positions of increasing responsibility, serving as legislative liaison to the Legislature for the Department of Budget and Management, and the Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (DLLR); and Special Assistant, Director of Financial Aid, and Assistant Secretary of Finance Policy with the Maryland Higher Education Commission.

    She has a Master of Policy Sciences from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland, College Park.

    JORDAN GLEASON

    Subjects: All Subjects

    Links:Website

    Possesses nearly a decade of government affairs experience at the state and federal level

    Former government affairs and communications director for Louisiana Oil and Gas Association

    Former press secretary and legislative assistant to Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA)

    Jordan Gleason has over 10 years of experience in effective advocacy, coalition building and providing strategic solutions for legislative and regulatory issues. He has a deep understanding of policy at the state level in Louisiana and the federal level in Washington, D.C. Throughout his career, he has built relationships with local, state and federal lawmakers and is familiar with the workings of the regulatory bodies, especially in Louisiana and within the oil and gas industry.

    Jordan came to Cornerstone from Adams and Reese LLP, where he served as a Government Affairs Advisor. Prior to that, he was the Government Affairs and Communications Director for the Louisiana Oil and Gas Association (LOGA), where he was responsible for facilitating communication between industry associations to unite on issues important to their respective members. While there he was responsible for planning political fundraisers, industry events and media outreach relating to LOGA's membership and to further a better understanding of the oil and gas industry in the state.

    Prior to his work with LOGA, Jordan served as Press Secretary and Legislative Assistant for former Rep. Charles Boustany (R-LA). He was the official spokesperson for the office, liaising with the media and public outlets and advising the Congressman on local political issues including coastal restoration, defense and transportation.

    Jordan began his political career as Press Assistant in Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal's administration, eventually becoming the Deputy Director of Legislative Affairs. He received his bachelor's degree from Louisiana State University.

    NICHOLAS MANIS

    One of the premier lobbying firms in Annapolis, Manis Canning & Associates (MCA) has been representing the interests of its clients for almost 50 years, dating back to 1974. Our team collectively has more than 100 years of experience working with legislatures, executives, and regulators in local, state and federal governments.

    We provide creative, proactive government affairs, public relations, business and trade association management strategies and programs to a diverse group of clients. We conduct ourselves in a bipartisan manner and pride ourselves in our ability to build and manage effective grassroots organizations and issue-based coalitions. We believe credibility is essential to maintaining our firm's good name and the good name of our clients, and preserving that commodity is of paramount importance.

    20+ years

  • The Motion Picture Association of America began its relationship with MCA in 1974, working with Co-Founder George Manis. We can't imagine working with anyone else. They anticipate our issues and their professionalism and integrity is unmatched in Annapolis. For decades, it has been clear to MPAA that their relationships with elected leaders are based on trust and mutual respect. - Vans Stevenson, Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs, Motion Picture Association of America
  • No matter how large or small, I can always trust MCA to dive into the substance of an issue. Their experience working at the highest levels of State and local government gives them a unique command of both the process and the issues. There is no one I'd rather work with in Annapolis. - Anne Lindner, Vice President of State Legislative Affairs, Pepco Holdings
  • MCA continues to help us navigate the complexities of one of the largest and most important urban renewal projects in the country, Port Covington. Available at all times, day or night, I know I can count on them for their strong grasp of the issues and effective leadership. - Marc Weller, President and CEO Weller Development Company
  • We turned to MCA help secure funding for our new Regional Youth Workforce and Innovation Center. They have become a trusted partner and advisor, not just for our new Center, but also on efforts to expand career and technical exploration in the K-12 school system. - Jennifer Bodensiek, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
  • We added MCA to our team when we needed timely advice on an issue of great importance to the company. They quickly brought themselves up to speed and knew the players to get the job done. We can't thank them enough for their results- oriented approach. Their knowledge of all levels and branches of Maryland government has been invaluable. - Brett Kelly, Vice President, Fraport Maryland (formerly Airmall Maryland)
  • It isn't easy to start a new business - let alone a new industry. MCA gave the medical cannabis growers and processors in our organization instant credibility, and a powerful voice in Annapolis. With their help, we have gotten our businesses off the ground and are delivering a safe, reliable and affordable medical product to Maryland patients. - Jake Van Wingerden, owner of SunMed Growers and past President of the Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD)
  • I've worked with MCA for many years, and I have always been impressed by their thorough approach to government affairs. They work in a bipartisan manner to get results for their clients and they are clearly respected on both sides of the aisle by elected officials and staff alike. The MCA team has helped facilitate relationships and presented opportunities for me to communicate directly with policymakers about issues important to my business. - Gary Mangum, co-Founder of ForwardGro and former CEO of Bell Nursery
  • Nicholas G. Manis, the son of MCA co-founder George Manis and managing partner of the firm, has presided over legislative and special event successes on behalf of clients such as the Motion Picture Association of America, the Baltimore Ravens, the Maryland Association of Certified Public Accountants and Pfizer.

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

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

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

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

    DANA SIMPSON

    Dana Simpson co-chairs the Government Relations practice at Smith Anderson and regularly represents clients before the North Carolina General Assembly and with State agencies.

    Dana advises clients regarding legislative and regulatory advocacy, public relations, issues management, economic development initiatives, ethics, and campaign finance law compliance. Dana has been consistently rated one of the most influential lobbyists in North Carolina by both the nonpartisan N.C. Center for Public Policy Research and The North State Journal.

    Prior to law school, Dana served as Special Assistant for Communications and Policy to the Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives.

    Dana also has experience representing clients on rule-making and administrative law matters. He served as a member of the North Carolina Rules Review Commission from 2003-2006.

    20+ years

    "North Carolina's Top Lobbyists" - North State Journal (2020)
    Best Lawyers Government Relations Practice (2009-2022)
    Business North Carolina Legal Elite
    Triangle Business Journal "40 Under 40 Leadership Award (2012)

    PATRICK GOLDSMITH

    Subjects: All Subjects

    Links:Website

    Former Deputy Commissioner to Governor Jeff Landry

    Former Chief Administrative Office and Chief Financial Officer to Ascension Parish Government

    Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Governmental Auditing Professional (CGAP) and Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)

    Patrick Goldsmith joined Cornerstone Government Affairs in February 2026, after more than three decades of experience at the highest levels of Louisiana government and politics. Patrick currently serves as Principal in Cornerstone's Baton Rouge office, supporting clients focused on budget and appropriations matters.

    Prior to Cornerstone, Patrick was Deputy Commissioner to Governor Jeff Landry. In that role, he held the appointment authority for 1,600 state employees and oversaw the 22 sections of the Division of Administration - including statewide IT, Accounting, Auditing, Procurement, Risk Management and Budgeting. He also advised the Commissioner of Administration and Gov. Landry on fiscal issues and led the development of the $50 billion Executive Budget and $12 billion Capital Outlay Plan.

    Patrick previously served in Ascension Parish Government as Chief Administrative Officer. He supervised heads of all departments and functions within the parish. He was also the Chief Financial Officer to the Ascension Parish, where he directed all activities of the Finance, Purchasing, Legal, Grants, Human Resources, Data Analytics and Project Management Departments.

    Earlier in his career, Patrick spent nearly a decade as the Director of the House Fiscal Division for the Louisiana House of Representatives. He directed all activities of the House's Fiscal Division including research, analysis, drafting and committee-staffing on all state fiscal matters. In addition, Patrick advised House leadership and provided committee oversight for Appropriations, Ways and Means, Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget, Revenue Estimating Conference and other committees. As part of his responsibilities, Patrick oversaw the drafting, amendments and final passage of the General Appropriation Bill and Capital Outlay bill.

    He is also viewed as one of the state's top auditing and efficiency experts, having spent nearly two decades in the Louisiana Legislative Auditor's Office where he held roles such as Director of Performance Audit and Actuarial Services, Performance Audit Manager and Staff/Senior Auditor.

    Patrick holds a Master of Public Administration and Bachelor's in Finance from Louisiana State University.

    LUKE ASHLEY

    • 931-224-2749

    • 511 Union Street Ste1820NashvilleTN37219

    Subjects: All Subjects

    Links:LinkedIn

    Prior to joining JohnsonPossKirby in 2017, Luke served Capitol Hill in the Tennessee General Assembly, the Department of Finance and Administration, and the Office of Governor Bill Haslam.

    Luke began working in politics in 2009 for Representative Pat Marsh and then joined Governor Haslam's office in February of 2011. During his tenure there, Luke helped shepherd the Governor's signature legislation through the legislative process. These initiatives include teacher tenure reform, tort reform, the TEAM Act, the Prescription Safety Act, and TN Promise to name a few. In 2015, Luke left the Governor's office to join Commissioner Larry Martin and the Department of Finance and Administration.In his role as Legislative Liaison, Luke was responsible for communicating with the legislature on behalf of Commissioner Martin and the divisions within the department. Luke worked with the Commissioner, Strategy Technology Solutions (STS), Benefits Administration, and the Division of Budget to achieve the department's goals and facilitate a strong working relationship between the department and General Assembly.

    In addition to his work with the F&A divisions, Luke played a role in preparing the Governor's Budget and advocating for its approval in the General Assembly. These budgets included the largest tax cut in state history, two debt free budgets, and significant investments in recruiting jobs.Luke and his wife, Katie, live in Franklin with their two daughters, Ryall and Mackie.

    JOSEPH BRYCE

    One of the premier lobbying firms in Annapolis, Manis Canning & Associates (MCA) has been representing the interests of its clients for almost 50 years, dating back to 1974. Our team collectively has more than 100 years of experience working with legislatures, executives, and regulators in local, state and federal governments.

    We provide creative, proactive government affairs, public relations, business and trade association management strategies and programs to a diverse group of clients. We conduct ourselves in a bipartisan manner and pride ourselves in our ability to build and manage effective grassroots organizations and issue-based coalitions. We believe credibility is essential to maintaining our firm's good name and the good name of our clients, and preserving that commodity is of paramount importance.

    20+ years

  • The Motion Picture Association of America began its relationship with MCA in 1974, working with Co-Founder George Manis. We can't imagine working with anyone else. They anticipate our issues and their professionalism and integrity is unmatched in Annapolis. For decades, it has been clear to MPAA that their relationships with elected leaders are based on trust and mutual respect. - Vans Stevenson, Senior Vice President, State Government Affairs, Motion Picture Association of America
  • No matter how large or small, I can always trust MCA to dive into the substance of an issue. Their experience working at the highest levels of State and local government gives them a unique command of both the process and the issues. There is no one I'd rather work with in Annapolis. - Anne Lindner, Vice President of State Legislative Affairs, Pepco Holdings
  • MCA continues to help us navigate the complexities of one of the largest and most important urban renewal projects in the country, Port Covington. Available at all times, day or night, I know I can count on them for their strong grasp of the issues and effective leadership. - Marc Weller, President and CEO Weller Development Company
  • We turned to MCA help secure funding for our new Regional Youth Workforce and Innovation Center. They have become a trusted partner and advisor, not just for our new Center, but also on efforts to expand career and technical exploration in the K-12 school system. - Jennifer Bodensiek, President and CEO, Junior Achievement of Central Maryland
  • We added MCA to our team when we needed timely advice on an issue of great importance to the company. They quickly brought themselves up to speed and knew the players to get the job done. We can't thank them enough for their results- oriented approach. Their knowledge of all levels and branches of Maryland government has been invaluable. - Brett Kelly, Vice President, Fraport Maryland (formerly Airmall Maryland)
  • It isn't easy to start a new business - let alone a new industry. MCA gave the medical cannabis growers and processors in our organization instant credibility, and a powerful voice in Annapolis. With their help, we have gotten our businesses off the ground and are delivering a safe, reliable and affordable medical product to Maryland patients. - Jake Van Wingerden, owner of SunMed Growers and past President of the Maryland Wholesale Medical Cannabis Trade Association (CANMD)
  • I've worked with MCA for many years, and I have always been impressed by their thorough approach to government affairs. They work in a bipartisan manner to get results for their clients and they are clearly respected on both sides of the aisle by elected officials and staff alike. The MCA team has helped facilitate relationships and presented opportunities for me to communicate directly with policymakers about issues important to my business. - Gary Mangum, co-Founder of ForwardGro and former CEO of Bell Nursery
  • A long-time trusted advisor to Maryland policymakers, Joseph C. Bryce, Esq., is regarded as one of Maryland's top governmental program architects and advocates. He brings his reputation for creative and insightful problem solving and ability to manage large, complex projects and issues to MCA.

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

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

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