0-5 years

2019 30 Under 30 by AgGrad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

STEPHEN M. DEFRANK is a senior advisor in Buchanan's state government relations group. He joins Buchanan after spending 23 years of his career in Pennsylvania state government. His most recent position was chief of staff for Senator Lisa M. Boscola.

Steve brings process and policy expertise to our Pennsylvania Government Relations Practice, having worked in state government for more than 20 years. He has served in several roles in his over two decades with the Senate of Pennsylvania, including chief of staff, committee executive director, and policy director. Steve called on his strengths differently in each of those roles: as a chief of staff for Sen. Lisa Boscola, he used his organizational skills and ability to multitask to advance the senator's legislative agenda in Harrisburg and manage constituent outreach and communications in her district office. As Executive Director for the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee, Steve grasped new concepts quickly and effectively, and developed an area of expertise in issues affecting the energy and utility sectors. As Policy Director, he worked as a jack of all trades to advance a caucus-wide agenda that included initiatives related to legalized gaming, community and economic development, workforce development, education initiatives and government reform.

20+ years

Rocco founded the firm of Pugliese Associates in 1980 working from a small office in Harrisburg with a single client. The firm now maintains offices in Harrisburg and Philadelphia with close to 50 clients including: non-profit organizations, universities, government authorities, venture capitalists, state and national corporations, and trade associations.

Rocco has more than 35 years of lobbying and state government experience. Starting his working years in the mid-70's employed in the State Senate; he was later hired as an aide to the House Transportation Committee. In his years of lobbying, Rocco has been active on a number of highly visible, diverse and complex issues. They include such topics as gaming, corporate initiatives and ventures, appropriations, tobacco settlement, economic development, workers' compensation, state procurement, along with a variety of other policy and legislative issues.

Rocco graduated from Gannon University in 1975 with a BA in Political Science, and he also holds a Masters degree in Public Administration from Penn State University.

Experience, Integrity, and Results- Rocco's motivation, commitment, leadership and direction are what make Pugliese Associates what it is today.

15-20 years

Consistently listed among the "Best Lobbyists in Pennsylvania" and "Most Powerful in Philadelphia Politics" by City & State PA, PoliticsPA, and Philadelphia Magazine.

As the Founder of PSG, John draws on more than 25 years experience in the Greater Philadelphia public policy arena to get great results for his clients. Prior to launching PSG in January 2019, he was Vice President for City Relations at Wojdak Government Relations, one of Pennsylvania's premier lobbying firms. John oversaw all issues in Philadelphia's City Hall and successfully represented large corporations, developers, regional associations, universities, and non-profits for fourteen years.

Before Wojdak, John served as a legislative assistant and drafted and analyzed municipal and state legislation over six years for then-Councilman Jim Kenney and the Pennsylvania Senate Democratic Appropriations Committee. In the 1990s, John worked on various city and state political campaigns, and spent three years as the Research Director for the Committee of Seventy, Philadelphia's "government watchdog" organization.

John holds a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Government Administration from the University of Pennsylvania, where for thirteen years he was an instructor on urban politics and municipal government at Penn's Fels Institute of Government. He lives in the East Falls neighborhood of Philadelphia, where he serves on the executive board of the East Falls Development Corporation. He swears he is much better at lobbying than he is at dyeing his youngest daughter's hair (although he is getting pretty good at that too).

11-15 years

Natalie conducts client and legislative research and has become skilled at monitoring and communicating the actions of the PA General Assembly to clients. In addition to client communications on legislation, Natalie monitors the budget hearing process for clients; pinpointing pertinent information and relaying it in a timely manner. Natalie regularly interacts with legislative staff and administrative officials on client issues and has planned and executed advocacy days for multiple clients. She has also attended state board meetings on behalf of clients and monitors regulatory activity -- working to guide clients through regulatory process.

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

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners appointed Tom to a five-year term on the Board of the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA), beginning on September 1, 2001. He was reappointed to a second five-year term in 2006.

Tom is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania (B.A., summa cum laude, 1982), where he was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, and the University of Pennsylvania School of Law (J.D., cum laude, 1985), where he served as editor of the University of Pennsylvania Law Review and was a member of the Order of the Coif.

Patty is a seasoned veteran who served as deputy secretary for legislative affairs for Governor's Rendell and Schweiker. She also served as a liaison between members of the state general assembly and the governor's office in negotiating legislation, capital budget projects and constituent issues. Patty consulted with state House and Senate leaders on legislative agendas, and coordinated the development and introduction of legislation for 15 departments and agencies of the executive branch, including the Liquor Control Board, the Department of Transportation, Turnpike Commission, the Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Public Welfare (now the Department of Human Services) and the Department of Labor & Industry. From 2001 to 2003, Patty served as acting secretary and deputy secretary for legislative affairs under Governor Mark Schweiker. During the Ridge administration, she served as both legislative director and assistant legislative director for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Patty was also a senior lobbyist for another government relations firm, where she lobbied the Pennsylvania General Assembly and developed legislative/procurement strategies for clients in industries such as transportation, financial services, gaming, liquor and healthcare, as well as for municipal and county governments.

The TAG network consists of the top lobbying firms across the US, public affairs specialists in various countries and specialty services.

US Members:
50-States
DC Council
US Congress

International:
Profile Consulting (Aust) Pty Ltd (Australia)
Tactix (Canada)
Monarch Global Strategies (Mexico, Central & South America)
Kesarev (Russia, CIS, Central Asia, Central & Eastern Europe, Turkey & Israel)
Instinctif Partners (United Kingdom & the European Union)

Specialty members:
Five Corners Strategies (Grassroots Advocacy & Public Affairs)
FOCUS, a Leonine Business (50-State Legislative & Regulatory Tracking & Analysis)
Select Litigation (Jury Selection)
Bullpen, LLC (Market Entry Strategy)
The Virtuous Cycle Collaboratory (Social Enterprise Business Development)
Law Offices of Mitchell D. Gravo, Inc. (Specialty Member)

20+ years

I have maintained a solid reputation as a well-respected and constant presence in the Capitol for over three decades. I have been on the Hill with many state policy makers throughout the entirety of their careers. My long term relationships with administration officials, legislative leaders and key staff give me the ability to reach out to these individuals quickly to ensure our clients' messages and perspectives are considered.

My diverse and significant background in government, politics and corporate strategy serves me well as a lobbyist. In addition to spending more than 25 years in government relations and executive management for the Pennsylvania Builders Association, I have also worked for the Pennsylvania Retailers Association. I understand the internal dynamics of associations and the nuances required to assist them in formulating and implementing their governmental affairs agendas. I also work with a wide range of our varied corporate clients leveraging my expertise in building construction, management, service and development.

Before launching my lobbying career, I began as a political activist while attending college. I graduated from Gannon University with a BA in Political Science and soon moved to Harrisburg where I served in several leadership staff roles within the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

0-5 years

Nick has served in key leadership positions both within Pennsylvania's Office of Administration (O.A.) and Governor's Office under both Governor Corbett and Governor Wolf. He brings a bipartisan approach to assisting GSL clients. While in O.A., Nick served as the Director of the Bureau of State Employment overseeing 32,000 non-civil service jobs and the application, interview and selection process associated with them. Nick built relationships with key stakeholders in the hiring process, including Deputies for Administration, labor unions and human resources personnel. Additionally, he was influential in proposing and implementing various executive orders, HR initiatives, management directives and policies throughout the enterprise


After transferring to the Governor's Office under Governor Wolf, Nick served as the Director of Administration and as a Deputy Chief of Staff before being named the Governor's Executive Deputy Chief of Staff. In these various roles, he oversaw personnel, procurement and the Governor's Office of Performance Through Excellence. He participated in legislative negotiations and played a key role in the Governor's final budget. Through his administration and procurement background, Nick has extensive experience working with all state agencies and delivery centers and specifically served as a liaison for the Office of Inspector General, Office of Administration, Department of General Services and the Department of Agriculture.

0-5 years

Ryan's extensive experience in small business, political strategy, and service to his community allows him to impact government officials while growing our client's influence in the Capitol and beyond.

Smith grew up in Northeastern Pennsylvania, deeply influenced by his family's restaurant business, where he worked throughout high school and college. Soon after, he honorably served for six years as a Military Police Officer in the Army Reserves. During that time, he engaged in local, state, and federal political campaigns, paving the way for a meaningful career with the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.

Ryan then became political director for Governor Josh Shapiro's successful Attorney General campaign. He later consulted on multiple statewide races before joining the Pennsylvania Democratic State Party as deputy executive director/political director, where he helped secure victories for Pennsylvania House, Senate, Gubernatorial, and U.S. Senate and Congressional campaigns.

Following successful campaign cycles, Ryan served as deputy campaign manager for Governor Shapiro's Attorney General reelection and Gubernatorial races. He then served the Shapiro Administration as special assistant to the PA Secretary of Agriculture, where he advised on policy, legislation, communications, and stakeholder relations. These experiences deepened his appreciation for rural and agricultural policy, specifically the importance of supporting small, diverse, and innovative businesses and the significance of increasing economic development in our rural, suburban, and urban communities.

Throughout his career, Ryan has built strong relationships with elected officials from both parties, business organizations, community leaders, and professional associations. His extensive network and insights reflect his unwavering commitment to public service and improving the lives within our commonwealth.

Ryan, his wife Stefanie, daughter Ava, and dogs Abbey and Leila live in Cumberland County. He enjoys golfing, skiing, and spending time with his family.

0-5 years

Pam is an energy lawyer and lobbyist who practices in the McNees Energy & Environmental Group. She has extensive experience in implementing electric supply competition in Pennsylvania and other states. Pam advises clients regarding commercial, legal, regulatory and legislative opportunities and risks in the electric and natural gas industries. She assists clients in analyzing and negotiating wholesale and retail natural gas and electricity contracts, as well as addressing other utility service requirements. Pam also represents and advises cable telephony providers, local exchange carriers and interexchange carriers, before various state and federal administrative agencies and courts.

6-10 years

Her efforts won many accolades from customers, regulators and legislators. She proved instrumental in the passage of legislation that ensured water quality and quantity and water system sustainability for decades.

Specifically, she played a critical role in the passage of Act 11 and Act 12, which pertained to water and wastewater system financing; and Act 154, that defines combined sewer overflow (CSO) system assets as sewer assets and thus regulated by the public utility commission. She spearheaded American Water's strategic response to shale gas development, collaborating with shale gas drillers and municipal officials to protect the environment and enhance the local economy by extending water into rural areas using a combination of public and private funding.

Kathy was among 30 task force members from across Pennsylvania selected by Governor Tom Wolf to address the estimated $20 billion funding shortfall needed to upgrade Pennsylvania's aging water infrastructure. She has also served on the Sustainable Water Infrastructure Task Force, selected by Gov. Ed Rendell.

As CEO of Pennsylvania American Water, part of Kathy's responsibilities included building relationships and partnering with legislators, County Commissioners, municipal officials representing the water company's service area in 36 counties and 400 municipalities.

Kathy is a licensed attorney in NJ and PA and started her career at the Office of Consumer Advocate, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and as a utility attorney at General Waterworks. She also served as corporate counsel and manager of finance for American Water and as vice president, treasurer and rate counsel for Philadelphia Suburban Water. During her tenure at Philadelphia Suburban Water, the company grew from a five-county suburban Philadelphia water company to the second largest publicly-traded U.S. water and wastewater service provider.

In 2007, she was tapped to lead American Water's largest subsidiary, Pennsylvania American Water. As the president of Pennsylvania American Water, she used her legal, financial, business and governmental experience to balance customer service, reasonable rates, infrastructure replacement and community engagement. Kathy later led American Water's mid-Atlantic region which included Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Virginia and Maryland before she entered entering private practice.

Kathy currently serves on the board of directors for Highmark Health and has chaired the Pennsylvania Business Counsel, the Foundation for Enhancing Communities and the Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Association of Water Companies. She is also an active member of the boards of the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (Western and Central PA Chapter), the Earth Conservancy and the Hampden Township Industrial Development Authority.

Kathy is a nationally known speaker on leadership, utility finance, infrastructure and water and wastewater operations. She is also an expert witness on utility finance, tax and infrastructure issues and has testified before state and federal legislative committees.

15-20 years

She was recognized in 2022 by the Central Pennsylvania Business Journal as one of the Power 30 lawyer lobbyists and in 2021 by City & State magazine as part of their Pennsylvania Power 100 list. She has also been selected by her peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America several times, was honored by Harrisburg Magazine as one of the 'Top Lawyers in Central Pennsylvania' and as one of Pennsylvania's 50 most politically influential personalities by PolitickerPA.com's Power List.

Laura would be happy to discuss specific professional relationships with prospective clients.

Laura continues her "pursuit of happiness" by opening Pursuit Advocacy in 2022, and is thrilled that she'll be joined by many of her long-term clients and additional new ones as well. Feel free to reach out to Laura by email at laura@pursuitadvocacy.com.

Laura worked in the PA General Assembly for over a dozen years in leadership staff positions and managed House floor activity. There she was the House Majority Leader's Chief of Staff and Deputy Counsel and Policy Counsel for the Speaker/Minority Leader. She also has been a lawyer lobbyist for many years, both as a partner at a national law firm and as counsel to former Governor Ridge's lobbying firm. She also has experience in the political arena as a political fundraiser for campaigns nationally and locally.

During law school, Laura was Executive Editor of the Administrative Law Journal. She also interned for a U.S. District Judge for the Southern District of New York, was a legal intern for the Federal Election Commission, and worked for a Tennesse Congressman. She attended Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government Program for Senior Executives in State and Local Governments.

Rick Allan joined the Pugliese Associates staff as a lobbyist in 2013 after serving as Secretary of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

His considerable experience with the private sector along with his broad knowledge of the environment enabled him to direct a state agency with a staff of 2,300 employees and an annual budget of $300 million. While with DCNR, Rick oversaw the Department's improvement of the review process for the development and oversight of the natural gas industry activities on PA State lands. This would result in lower costs and more timely permitting decisions for all types of development on state lands.

Rick has been providing reliable and successful lobbying service to clients in the private sector through his extensive knowledge of the state legislative, permitting, and financing process with a proven track record for over 26 years. Rick has worked closely with the business community, several non-profit environmental organizations and state agencies, developing public policy while serving on their advisory committees and boards for many years.

He has developed and maintained close relationships with members of the Pennsylvania General Assembly, legislative leadership, and state agencies. Rick has developed experience in various sectors, ranging from petroleum, paper/forestry, education, landlord/tenant, engineering, coal, utilities, alternative energy an was instrumental in developing the Pennsylvania Recycling Law.

Prior to his public career, Rick was instrumental in rebuilding, modernizing and expanding his family's recycling operations in northeastern PA over a 20 year period. Rick graduated from Wilkes College with a bachelor's degree in environmental sciences & biology. Rick and his wife reside in Camp Hill.

20+ years

Led the passage of legislation to provide for Ready to Go Drinks in grocery stores, convenience stores and restaurant licensees.

Secured funding for the 15 Community Colleges including passage of the State Board of Higher Education.

Led the passage of legislation to provide for the addition of the federal judiciary in the Pennsylvania Protective Class Law.

Worked to advance client's legislative goals in the reauthorization of the Commonwealth's One Call System.

C&G Strategies has focused its practice on working both sides of the aisle. We have relationships in all four Caucus Leadership Teams

Co-Founder/General Counsel

Tony has dedicated his entire career to government relations, representing a variety of corporations and non-profit organizations from across the Commonwealth. An effective advocate, his experience and reputation helps make connections between his clients and policy makers. Tony is an active and well-respected participant in the legislative process in Harrisburg. Tony is known for his tireless work ethic and his ability to bring together stakeholders on any issue to find commonalities and work together. His expertise lies in government relations, legislative strategy, political action committee (PAC) regulation, and lobbying regulation. Tony is also a frequent continuing legal education (CLE) presenter.

20+ years

Led the passage of legislation to provide for Ready to Go Drinks in grocery stores, convenience stores and restaurant licensees.

Secured funding for the 15 Community Colleges including passage of the State Board of Higher Education.

Led the passage of legislation to provide for the addition of the federal judiciary in the Pennsylvania Protective Class Law.

Worked to advance client's legislative goals in the reauthorization of the Commonwealth's One Call System.

C&G Strategies has focused its practice on working both sides of the aisle. We have relationships in all four Caucus Leadership Teams

Co-Founder/Chief Financial Officer

With over two decades of executive experience, Rob's career has placed him at the highest level of local and state government. As a public affairs professional, he has shaped public policy and legislation for clients in non-profit organizations, for-profit companies, trade associations, unions, and more. Rob provides individualized services that support clients' specific needs and has successfully represented clients in a variety of sectors. Whether navigating state or local government, facilitating introductions with decision makers, working with stakeholders, or developing and executing strategies, he is focused on allowing each individual client to meet their goals.

6-10 years

Kathy's service as a senior adviser to Governor Tom Corbett for four years and the late Mayor Stephen R Reed of the City of Harrisburg provided her leadership experience and insight into how state and local governments operate from the inside. In those roles, she had real experiences in government and established and fostered relationships throughout all three branches of government. These experiences and relationships help her serve clients efficiently and effectively.

During the Pennsylvania COVID-19 business shutdown, Kathy helped clients in diverse business industries tell their story to Governor Wolf's Administration and obtain approval and a waiver to continue to operate. She worked with her team as if every client's business needs were a "911" call for help. Her round-the-clock work and counsel helped clients and their employees operate quickly, in a safe manner and in cooperation with law enforcement.

Clients have succeeded with their legislative lobbying goals as Kathy and her team supported them with needs to amend, pass or oppose legislation that would impact the client's business goals. Kathy's efforts and guidance support clients' business timeline and budgets.

Kathy lobbied with a team to successfully oppose any nuclear bailout legislation.

Kathy assists clients who need quick access to an agency decisionmaker for time sensitive issues. a Kathy assists clients with obtaining grant funds to support client projects.

Kathy is a licensed attorney in NY, NJ and PA, and she has more than a decade in Pennsylvania state and local politics with the unique experience as a senior staffer in the Office of the Governor. Kathy served as former Gov. Tom Corbett's Deputy Chief of Staff from 2011 to 2015. In that role, she was a trusted advisor to the governor and his cabinet and staff. She served as the governor's liaison to numerous state agencies and helped coordinate and manage policy, legislative and press initiatives. Kathy also worked on the governor's behalf with contacts in local and federal governments. While with the governor's office, Kathy represented the governor with numerous state and regional boards and commissions, including the Pennsylvania and New Jersey bi-state transportation authorities, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Authority and the Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority (PCCA). Further, she served with the governor as vice chair of Team Pennsylvania, a nonprofit that connects business and industry leaders and facilitates partnerships to support economic development and prosperity in the commonwealth.

Prior to joining Saxton & Stump, Kathy was an attorney for a Harrisburg-based law firm where she represented clients as an attorney and a lobbyist in diverse subject areas including energy and environmental, oil and natural gas and food and beverage on matters involving public finance, state and local tax, employment and corporate governance. Before joining the governor's office, she was a partner at Rhoads & Sinon LLP for 10 years where she focused her practice in litigation and labor and employment. She also previously served in leadership roles for the City of Harrisburg's Mayor Stephen R. Reed as deputy solicitor and director of human resources for approximately four years.

Ted has worked on political campaigns on the local, state and federal levels in numerous states, including New Jersey where he once served as Executive Director at the New Jersey Republican State Committee. He has also worked for a national political party organization, and served as a political appointee at the U.S. General Services Administration, the federal government's procurement and acquisition agency. In addition, Ted has worked for several major private-sector organizations that include Comcast, IBM, and New Jersey-based ADP.

Ted served as State Director for the Trump Campaign in Pennsylvania, helping win the state for a Republican Presidential candidate for the first time since 1988. Ted was also responsible for running the Delegate races during the primary and served as the Floor Whip during the Republican National Convention. He also served on the Trump Presidential Transition team, Trump for America.

Ted received a B.A. from William Paterson University in Wayne, NJ and a M.A. from Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ. He was appointed to the Pennsylvania Workforce Investment Board in 2012 and sits on the Bucks County Redevelopment Authority.

11-15 years

Kyle brings to GSL Public Affairs and Communications more than two decades of experience in state government. A native of northeast Pennsylvania, Kyle came to Harrisburg more than 20 years ago and began his career in the Pennsylvania State Senate.

Kyle quickly worked his way up the ranks, serving in various roles and most recently as the Chief of Staff for Senator John Yudichak.

As Chief of Staff, Kyle was responsible for the day-to-day operations of both the Harrisburg Office and the District Offices. Kyle developed, implemented and promoted the Senator's legislative proposals and public policy agenda. He also identified and helped secure funding sources, such as RACP, LSA, PennDOT/DCED Multimodal and other CFA grant programs for economic development and infrastructure projects in the Senator's district.

In 2016, Kyle made the transition from chief of staff in the Senate to a career in lobbying. Widely regarded as one who could always work in a bipartisan manner within the halls of the Capitol, Kyle has been able to utilize those relationships to achieve numerous successes for his clients. Over the last few years, Kyle has worked with his clients to accomplish many legislative victories, such as the expansion of tax credit programs, implementing the first e-Scooter pilot program in Pennsylvania, amending state licensure laws and securing state appropriations.

Throughout Kyle's entire professional career, he has maintained an outstanding reputation amongst his peers. Kyle continues to use his experiences and longtime connections to collaboratively work with his clients and stakeholders to achieve policy and legislative goals.

15-20 years

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

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

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

20+ years

Peter has served on the boards and committees of numerous national, regional and local professional, business and trade associations, including the Public Affairs Council, American Gas Association, American Forest and Paper Association, Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, Pennsylvania Business Roundtable, Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, York County Chamber of Commerce, York County Historical Society, Eckerd College Parent Council and currently is a member of the National Association for Lobbying Ethics, Pennsylvania Association for Government Affairs and a Lifetime member of the Pennsylvania Society.

Peter's extensive knowledge of government, business and trade organizations provides clients with the benefit of a uniquely broad perspective.

Prior to launching Capitol Strategies Group, Peter successfully managed one of Pennsylvania's largest lobbying firms. He also served as Vice President for Public Affairs with Glatfelter, a global manufacturer of specialty papers, Vice President for Government Affairs for Philadelphia Gas Works and as a corporate officer and Vice President of Public Affairs with Waste Management, Inc.

Peter's extensive governmental experience includes serving as Special Assistant to the Governor of Pennsylvania and in senior positions in the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services as well as the Department of Labor and Industry. He also served as the Director of Legislation for the Mayor of Philadelphia and the Vice President for Government Affairs for the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. He has consulted for numerous national, state and local political campaigns and political parties.

0-5 years

0-5 years

6-10 years

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

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

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

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

6-10 years

With more than a decade of experience in politics, Ray Zaborney has played a key role in advising some of Pennsylvania's leading political figures. For his work, he has been recognized nationally as one of the country's leading political consultants. As the founding partner of Maverick Strategies (formerly State Street Strategies), Zaborney serves as a government relations and public affairs strategist for organizations with interests in front of state government.

Zaborney has advised a wide range of clients on legislation and politics in the Commonwealth, from Fortune 500 companies to scrappy startups and everything in between. Zaborney has worked to help set up a regulatory framework for Transportation Network Companies (TNCs) here in the Commonwealth, to expand gaming to make Pennsylvania a leader in internet gaming, to pass a record investment in infrastructure, and to protect and expand the authority of our Capitol city to escape near bankruptcy. He has been a leading advocate for non-discrimination protections, affordable health care, access to quality hospitals, education reforms to improve our public schools, and legislation to give minor offenders a clean slate to pursue opportunities.

Ray has served as a political advisor to some of Pennsylvania's leading political organizations including The Pennsylvania Republican Party, The Senate Republican Campaign Committee, The House Republican Campaign Committee, Senate Majority Leader Jake Corman, Majority Leader Dave Reed, Justice Sallie Mundy, Attorney General and Governor Tom Corbett, Lynn Swann, and numerous House and Senate members.

Ray is often sought after as a spokesperson and as a political analyst. Ray has contributed to stories that have appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Washington Times, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Pittsburgh Post Gazette, The Pittsburgh Tribune Review, The Harrisburg Patriot, The Erie Times, The Scranton Times, The Wilkes Barre Times Leader, The Allentown Morning Call, The Pittsburgh City Paper, Stateline, Roll Call, CQ Politics, PoliticsPA, ESPN The Magazine, and Sports Illustrated.

In addition to his many print contributions, Zaborney has been a frequent guest on television and radio programs throughout the Commonwealth to discuss political campaigns and the political environment both in Pennsylvania and our nation.

Ray lives and works with his wife, Jennifer, and their daughters, Grace and Emma, in New Cumberland.

15-20 years

Central PA 40 under 40
Central PA JDRF Board Chairman 2013-2015

Dan Hayward was named executive director for the Pennsylvania Republican Party in 2003, and became one of the youngest political power-players in Pennsylvania. Today, he applies his success and experience to orchestrate successful local, regional, and statewide issue advocacy campaigns, manage and direct lobbying efforts, and continues to be a key advisor in campaigns and elections.

It was in those early days after graduating summa cum laude from Shippensburg University and landing his first job at the Pennsylvania Republican Party that Dan honed his leadership skills through organizing grassroots campaigns and motivating people toward a common goal. Dan’s hard work and skill helped him rise quickly through the ranks. In 2004, at age 25, he was both the executive and victory director of the state GOP and managed a $28 million budget while directing 115 field operatives.

In 2005, Dan joined Novak Strategic Advisors (NSA) as a Senior Associate where he translated his campaign skills into a new paradigm of advocacy, which mobilizes grassroots constituencies on state and national issues at the local level in Pennsylvania. The success of the Issue Advocacy and Public Affairs division, along with the already successful traditional lobbying arm, earned Novak Strategic its reputation for being the state’s premier public advocacy firm. Dan became partner in 2010 and the firm's managing partner in 2013. Dan currently serves on the non-profit boards of the Central Pennsylvania JDRF, Running for Rachel and Riding on Insulin.

0-5 years

City and State's "40 Under 40 State Leaders" in 2022

PoliticsPA's "Top PA Political Operatives" in 2014

Board Member on the Pennsylvania Unemployment Compensation Board of Review

Elena has significant experience coordinating and advancing legislative initiatives in Harrisburg. As former Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff for the Office of Governor Tom Wolf, she oversaw operations of 24 executive agencies, led the planning and implementation of the Governor's strategic plan and worked closely with the General Assembly to advance budgetary, investment, tax reform, election reform, public health and economic goals. Among numerous major initiatives that Elena helped guide from development to completion include the 2022-23 $45 billion budget process, Pennsylvania's largest tax credit package for energy and advanced manufacturing development, COVID vaccine distribution, Pennsylvania's Broadband Authority, regional economic hub development and business recruitment, and the regulatory and executive action agenda for equal rights policies across various industries. She also oversaw the development of risk management, process improvements and data management structures across state agencies. Having served as a liaison between various cabinet agencies, nonprofit organizations and public and private leaders, Elena understands how to collaborate to achieve a common objective.

Elena also has a depth of strategic knowledge about the organization and coordination of political and field programs for key caucus operations and races. Prior to her senior advisory career in the Governor's Office, Elena held executive leadership roles in the Democratic Party and election organizations. She was Executive Director for Campaign for a Fresh Start, which coordinated gubernatorial campaign and other Democratic campaign efforts; served as Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party; and was Political Director for the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee.

0-5 years

McNees Strategic Solutions Group (MSSG)
International Association of Gaming AdvisorsPA Association of Government RelationsPA Esports Coalition, Chairman of the Board of Directors
Member, Susquehanna Township Planning Commission
Vice Chair, Susquehanna Township Recreation Advisory Committee

Bill is a seasoned government relations and political affairs professional, with significant experience influencing public policy at the state and local level. Prior to joining Mid-Atlantic Strategic Solutions, Bill was a key staff person within the Pennsylvania legislature. He is the former Leadership Executive Director of the Office of the Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus Secretary, serving as a reliable member of the House Democratic Caucus leadership staff team. Before working in the leadership ranks, Bill served as the Executive Director of the Pennsylvania House Gaming Oversight Committee, where he gained significant experience in gaming policy, which he continued to influence up until he left the House in 2017. Bill also served as the Deputy Communications Director for the House Majority Leader from 2008 to 2010. Before arriving in Pennsylvania and working for the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, Bill
served as the Assistant Director of the West Virginia Legislative Reference and Information Center, a nonpartisan, apolitical office of the West Virginia Legislature.As president of Mid-Atlantic Strategic Solutions, Bill utilizes his government affairs experience, and vast understanding of the legislative and political processes, to advocate for issues important to clients. And through his wide range of contacts, Bill engages elected officials, stakeholders and grassroots partners to deliver effective results for clients.A native of Long Island, New York, Bill is a graduate of the University of Charleston in Charleston, West Virginia. He currently lives in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Mid Atlantic Strategic Solutions is a member of the McNees Strategic Solutions Group.

15-20 years

Prior to joining K&L Gates, Ms. Diehl served as Deputy Secretary of Legislative Affairs to the Pennsylvania Governor, a senior staff position that involved the development and implementation of legislative strategy intended to advance the Governor's legislative priorities for several state agencies, including the Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Revenue, the Department of Transportation and the Pennsylvania Lottery. Ms. Diehl was directly and integrally involved in the enactment of several major legislative initiatives, including the historic transportation funding package of 2013, numerous pieces of legislation impacting energy and environmental policies and programs for the state, as well as, significant reforms intended to enhance operations and funding for the Pennsylvania Lottery. She was also directly involved with negotiations with the House of Representatives and the Senate relating to the enactment of the annual General Fund budget and related enactments.

Prior to working in the governor's office, Ms. Diehl served as Director of Legislative Affairs for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. During her tenure as Legislative Director, and prior to that, as Assistant Legislative Director, she advocated for legislative priorities related to taxation and the Pennsylvania Lottery, including significant business tax reform packages that dramatically changed state tax administration and tax compliance.

Before joining the Department of Revenue, Ms. Diehl worked in a senior staff capacity for the House Democratic Caucus. Her responsibilities included monitoring House floor activities and advising House Democratic Leadership in message development and legislative strategy.

0-5 years

Mike is Managing Director of GSL Public Strategies Group as well as GSL Government Consulting's state and local government consulting practice. He works with public and private sector clients within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and across the country to structure, maintain and further organizational partnerships and continuous improvement in the markets they serve.

Mike has an extensive background in legislative leadership. He served as Chief of Staff to the Office of Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf, working with a wide range of public and private stakeholders and advising the Governor in strategic political, policy, legislative, communications and intergovernmental affairs. He has led various multi-billion dollar budget negotiations and key legislative reforms in areas that include pensions, criminal law, health care, education, election law and school safety, among others.

As an electoral strategist, Mike's experience includes serving two full terms as a State Representative in the New Hampshire House of Representatives as well as Executive Director of the New Hampshire Democratic Party. Mike was also Executive Director of the Service Employees International United (SEIU) Pennsylvania State Council, National Campaign Director of SEIU and a national political affairs manager for a "Big Five" technology company.

6-10 years

Bio:David's network across Pennsylvania is both extensive and diverse. With over a decade of political experience under his belt, he has built relationships with elected officials, political party leaders, and business owners across the state. David's primary area of practice is grassroots advocacy where he has extensive experience directing issue campaigns for almost 10 years. While many government relations professionals focus on state and federal lobbying, David has perfected the art of mobilizing community and political leaders to push for or against an issue or piece of legislation. He embraces the idea that while an elected official can easily go home to his district and forget about the lobbyists, it's much more difficult to ignore his donors and neighbors and leaders in community if they continue to advocate the same message.He has led grassroots advocacy campaigns at all levels of government. From rallying a community in support of a new development or zoning change to mobilizing people across the state in opposition to controversial federal legislation, he has the ability and experience to execute a successful effort no matter what level of government the client may be dealing with.Since joining CNR in 2010, he has continued to remain active in republican politics. During the 2012 Presidential Election, he coordinated the ballot access process for Mitt Romney and went on to serve as the Statewide Political Director for the republican nominee throughout the general election. Since then, he continues to remain actively engaged in political campaigns of all kinds but with specific focus on county and local level officials.A licensed attorney, David's dedication to detail and tireless work ethic enables him to deliver high quality results for clients in the public, private, and political sectors. He has served as the Chairman of the Dauphin County Republican Party since 2016 and currently serves as the Assistant-Treasurer of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania. He lives in Hershey with his wife Amy.

11-15 years

0-5 years

Before joining the GSL team, Elizabeth worked as a registered lobbyist in Harrisburg. She assists the GSL team in communications and public affairs strategy, design and delivery.

Elizabeth attended Penn State University and received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a concentration in Public Relations. Elizabeth was a member of the Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society.

Elizabeth is an avid golfer and volunteers with LPGA*Girls Golf USA in the Central Pennsylvania area. She is also a member of the Harrisburg Young Professionals.

15-20 years

Recognized by the Central Penn Business Journal, Forty Under 40

Recognized by Susquehanna Style, Women in Leadership

Pennsylvania Association for Government Relations
Women in Pennsylvania Government Relations
Anne B. Anstine Excellence in Public Service Series, Class of 2008
Past Chair, Board of Directors, American Red Cross, Central PA Chapter
Leadership Harrisburg Area Executive Program, Class of 2016
Founder and Former Co-Chair, Dickinson College Alumni Association for Central Pennsylvania
Board member, Keystone Human Services Partnership Board
Board member, D.R.E.A.M. Partnership,
Associate Board member, Members 1st FCU

Angela Leopold is a Senior Partner of Novak Strategic Advisors. A savvy businesswoman and an accomplished community leader, Angela knows people and gets results. At NSA, Angela directs top to bottom grassroots campaigns, earned and social media strategies, and coalition building activities. For the past 15 years, she has worked on state and national issues such as healthcare, taxation, and energy. Angela co-leads the Issue Advocacy division at Novak and oversees several of Novak’s government affairs clients as well.

Early in her career as a political fundraiser, Angela developed creative, direct approaches to navigating grassroots campaigns that included issue-based forums, consensus building, and reputation management. Today, she utilizes this experience and continues to cultivate her well-established relationships and strong, broad-based coalition networks. Angela has successfully managed several local races drawing on her impressive organizational skills and ability to mobilize grassroots armies at the local level. From circulating petitions to building relationships with local business and community leaders, Angela leveraged her connections in creative ways, which ultimately led her candidates to victory in these local elections.

Angela is the past board chair of the Central PA Chapter of the American Red Cross, and in 2016 graduated from the Leadership Harrisburg Area Executive program. When Angela is not pulling it all together at work, she is pulling together ways to support nonprofits, including the Midwest Food Bank, D.R.E.A.M. Partnership, and Keystone Human Services (Partnership Board). In 2021, Angela was recognized as a 40 Under 40 Leader by the Central Penn Business Journal as well as Women in Business 2021 issue in Susquehanna Style.

Angela is a graduate of Dickinson College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Angela lives in Mechanicsburg with her husband, Joe, and son, Mark.

Joann has established a distinguished record of achievement in her professional life, which has accrued to the direct benefit of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and its citizens. She is a former Special Projects Manager for Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation. In that capacity, Joann participated in the development of private and public works projects with a collective value of over fifty million dollars. She is an expert in communication, management and public affairs.

Joann was the first appointed Executive Director of the Governor's Advisory Commission on African American Affairs in 1992 under then Governor Robert P. Casey. The commission is one of only three such commissions in the United States. Ms. Bell coordinated the activities of a twenty-five-member commission, and served as an important liaison between the Governor's office and the African American community in Pennsylvania. The commission through Ms. Bell's leadership is one of the Commonwealth's most effective advocates for African Americans in areas such as legislation, education, economic development, health, housing, and human services.

Ms. Bell also served the City of Philadelphia as the Director of the Mayor's Office of Affirmative Action and as a Special Assistant to former Mayor W. Wilson Goode. In 2008 Joann was appointed to the Philadelphia Department of Human Services Oversight Board by former Mayor Michael Nutter, and in 2012 she was appointed by Governor Tom Corbett to serve on the Board of the Delaware River Port Authority.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

0-5 years

Jason brings a unique mix of experience at the highest levels including public, private, and political. Jason comes to Ridge Policy from the Scott Wagner for Governor Campaign where Jason served as the Campaign Manager. Scott Wagner was the Republican nominee for Governor of Pennsylvania, not only securing the endorsement of the Republican Party of Pennsylvania but also defeating a well-funded primary opponent in a hotly contested primary campaign.

Prior to that role, Jason has twice served in the role of Chief of Staff to two Republican Pennsylvania State Senators, John H. Eichelberger, Jr. and Scott Wagner. In that role, Jason oversaw all office operations and staff, advised the Senators on policy, and worked with other offices and leadership to help to advance the goals of the Senators.

Jason's private sector experience includes serving as the Vice President of Tyrone-based data security firm Reclamere. Jason oversaw the entire operation of the company, was responsible for management of all personnel, worked directly with the three owners of the company to develop the company's strategic plan, and was the responsible staff-level person for executing that plan.