11-15 years

1st Vice President, Maryland Government Relations Association

Former General Counsel, Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation

Former General Counsel, Greater Bowie Chamber of Commerce

Pounds is an accomplished attorney and lobbyist with sixteen years of legal experience and served as General Counsel for government, quasi-government entities, boards & commissions, and businesses. After seven years in Prince George's as a senior campaign and transition staff member, an associate county attorney, and then General Counsel to the Prince George's County Economic Development Corporation, Pounds served six years as a partner and senior counsel in two prominent Maryland law firms. He represents clients in municipal and cannabis law, alcoholic beverage licensing; land use and zoning; business transactions, and government relations. He is a graduate of Virginia Tech, and received his Juris Doctor, with honors, at the University of Baltimore School of Law. Pounds is active in his community and serves on several boards, including the Greater Bowie Chamber of Commerce and the Maryland Government Relations Association. He lives in Bowie with his wife and two children.

Jenna Massoni serves as a senior associate supporting the firm's Annapolis, Maryland office. She assists a team of seven senior professionals with issue monitoring, policy research and analysis and legislative advocacy and outreach. She became a member of the Public Relations Society of America Inc. in 2021.

Prior to her current position, Jenna managed health care benefits for the students of Johns Hopkins University and was involved in planning the annual commencement ceremony.

Jenna graduated from Washington College in May 2015 with a B.S. in Business Management and received her M.A. in Contemporary Communications from Notre Dame of MD University in December 2019.

20+ years

TCG passed legislation giving Medicaid recipients, many with chronic conditions, easier access to home services, supplies and medical equipment. The legislation was opposed by Department of Social Services and was a target for the agency throughout the session.

TCG was successful in leading a coalition to sustain a veto by the Governor that had overwhelming support by the legislature and the Connecticut Education Association. The legislation would have had unintended negative consequences to students with behavioral health issues. TCG secured its client a position on the working group.

TCG was the driving force behind successfully lobbying the Governor's Office, the Office of Policy and Management, and the Department of Corrections to issue a RFP for inmate medical services at UConn Health. TCG's advocacy on this issue reversed a twenty plus year relationship between UConn Health acting as the sole provider of health services to Connecticut's incarcerated population.

TCG defeated legislation proposed by the Governor's office that had a negative impact to its client. TCG created a legislative campaign plan leveraging the extensive alumni network of Norwich Free Academy, along with organizing a coalition.

TCG has direct lines to the all of Connecticut's Constitutional Officers and their senior staff. Constitutional Officers comprises of the Governor, Attorney General, State Comptroller, Secretary of State's offices, and the Treasurer's office.

TCG possesses a strong network within the legislative leadership along key staff members in the four caucuses.

TCG commands far reaching contacts state agency including but not limited to the Department of Consumer Protection, Department of Public Health, Department of Education, Department of Administrative Services, and the Department of Economic and Community Development.

Alan J. Deckman is an influential and respected lobbyist at the Connecticut General Assembly and the Executive branch state agencies with over 22 years of experience. His personalized approach to representing clients blends practical business knowledge with a thorough knowledge of the legislative and governmental process.

Mr. Deckman is the President and principal owner of the TCORS Capitol Group, LLC. Based in Glastonbury, CT, Mr. Deckman oversees all aspects of the company and client servicing. He directs strategic planning and management of the company as well as marketing and long term growth and business opportunities.

Mr. Deckman has successfully developed innovative ways to impact legislative and executive decision-making to help achieve the best results for his company's clients. This proactive approach has produced numerous victories for clients with interests in the state budget and tax matters.

As the senior lobbyist of the TCORS Capitol Group, LLC, Mr. Deckman assists Fortune 500 companies and small Connecticut businesses with complex state and municipal procurement matters. Further, he has resolved many administrative inquiries for clients from a wide range of industries at both the state and local levels of government. Mr. Deckman regularly provides lead identification and relationship marketing services to clients looking to expand their business development efforts within the public and private sectors.

20+ years

TCG passed legislation giving Medicaid recipients, many with chronic conditions, easier access to home services, supplies and medical equipment. The legislation was opposed by Department of Social Services and was a target for the agency throughout the session.

TCG was successful in leading a coalition to sustain a veto by the Governor that had overwhelming support by the legislature and the Connecticut Education Association. The legislation would have had unintended negative consequences to students with behavioral health issues. TCG secured its client a position on the working group.

TCG was the driving force behind successfully lobbying the Governor's Office, the Office of Policy and Management, and the Department of Corrections to issue a RFP for inmate medical services at UConn Health. TCG's advocacy on this issue reversed a twenty plus year relationship between UConn Health acting as the sole provider of health services to Connecticut's incarcerated population.

TCG defeated legislation proposed by the Governor's office that had a negative impact to its client. TCG created a legislative campaign plan leveraging the extensive alumni network of Norwich Free Academy, along with organizing a coalition.

TCG has direct lines to the all of Connecticut's Constitutional Officers and their senior staff. Constitutional Officers comprises of the Governor, Attorney General, State Comptroller, Secretary of State's offices, and the Treasurer's office.

TCG possesses a strong network within the legislative leadership along key staff members in the four caucuses.

TCG commands far reaching contacts state agency including but not limited to the Department of Consumer Protection, Department of Public Health, Department of Education, Department of Administrative Services, and the Department of Economic and Community Development.

John M. Bailey II has over two decades of experience in government relations and advocacy to the firm. His knowledge of the legislative and state regulatory process, long-standing personal relationships and depth of insight have made him an effective advocate for clients, which have included major national corporations, trade associations, non-profits, and organizations in the areas of education, housing, health care/medical supplies, gaming and waste management/recycling.

Drawing on his broad and extensive experience, John has distinguished himself as a knowledgeable, trusted and effective advocate for his clients in advancing their legislative goals. Prior to joining the firm, John served as Statewide Director of Legislative Affairs for the American Heart Association and has worked for a number of Constitutional officers and elected officials, including Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, Congressman Joe Courtney, and Comptroller Kevin Lembo.

Hailing from a family with deep history in both Connecticut and national politics, John's father, Jack Bailey, was Connecticut's longest serving Chief State's Attorney, his grandfather, John M. Bailey, served as head of the Connecticut Democratic Party as well as Chairman of the National Democratic Committee, and his aunt, Barbara B. Kennelly, was a former Connecticut Secretary of State and U.S. Representative. John is the Town Chair for the West Hartford Democratic Town Committee. He has been actively involved in local and statewide campaigns for every election cycle for the past 20 years.

15-20 years

My client portfolio (and professional interests) require close working relationships with members of the Virginia General Assembly who serve on education, health, judiciary, and appropriations committees. I also regularly consult with and attend executive branch agencies and meetings for health professions regulation, Medicaid, behavioral health and substance use disorder, and education.

A native of Pennsylvania, I have lived in Virginia for over 50 years. I hold a baccalaureate degree (cum laude) and a master's degree in nursing from the University of Pennsylvania, a master's in public health from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a doctorate in higher education administration from the College of William & Mary in Virginia.

6-10 years

* Awarded Maryland Official Citation of Recognition in behalf of work advocating for mental health consumers. Lauded for "tireless efforts within legislative process."

* Advocated for and passed first legislation in over a decade establishing practice rights for commercial interior designers previously prevented from participating to the full extent of their education and experience.

* Legislative Sponsors received "Legislation of the Year" for Trauma-Informed Justice Provisions HB 177 at the 2018 Utah Council on Victims of Crime Annual Conference.

* Acquired additional resources for RFP process at the state, tribal, and community levels for South Dakota tribes by assisting with Title 4-E grant writing and funding through SAMHSA's SPF-PFS system.

* Promoted federal initiatives to support public education on mental illness and addiction, such as the Mental Health First Aid, Excellence in Mental Health, and Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Acts.

* Preserved funding for existing programs like the Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Grant Block and worked with behavioral health providers to ensure eligibility for various incentives.

* Multiple presentations and relationships with the Utah State Legislature including the following committees: Health Reform Taskforce Committee, Business and Labor, House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Committee, Senate Judiciary, Law Enforcement, and Criminal Justice Committee, Occupational and Professional Licensure Review Committee
* Dr. Joseph Miner, Executive Director Utah Department of Health
* Mark Steinagel, Executive Director, Utah Department of Occupational and Professional Licensing
* Utah County Commission
* Richard Nance, Executive Director, Utah County Department of Substance Use and Alcohol Treatment
* Voting member, Utah Multi-Disciplinary Trauma-Informed Committee, the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice; Chair of the 2019 Victim Advocate Credentialing Sub-Committee
* Member of Influencing Social Policy; ACOSA
* 1st and 2nd Year Network for Social Work Management Policy Fellow from 2016-2018
* NSWM Annual Conference Paper Presentation 2017 (NYC); Presenter 2018 (San Diego)
* Participated in the Policy Practice Summit (SWIPI)
* National Behavioral Health Council (State efforts for Day on the Hill; opioid policy)
* USC Alumni Association
* Speaker at the 2015 National Republican Liberty Caucus Conference, "Minority Outreach"
* Member; Utah Coalition Against Sexual Assault's Sexual Violence and Suicidality Workgroup
* Served as Chair of Frm. Rep. Ken Ivory's (UT-47) Trauma-Informed Legislative Workgroup (2018)
* Brigham Young University School of Social Work Capitol Hill Day (annual)
* Senior Advisor & Campaign Manager, Smigiel for Congress, 2015 to 2016
* 2015 National Republican Liberty Caucus Conference, Nashua, New Hampshire. Speaker, "Minority Outreach "and Moderator of panel on "Federal Reserve and U.S. Debt".
* Our America Initiative 2016, Colorado and New Mexico, "Promoting Liberty" Speaking Tour.
* 2016 IIDA Legislative Symposium, Denver, Colorado "Lobbyist Panel" and Featured Speaker, "Defining Success in Advocacy".
* Council of Delegates Annual Meeting 2016, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Interior Design Lobbying and Advocacy National Speaker Panel

Amy Coombs is setting a new standard when it comes to creating policy, advocating for clients, and conducting ethical government relations. Her commitment to trauma-informed processes is changing the way the criminal justice system interfaces with consumers, victims of crime, staff and government. As President of Prestige Government Relations & Consulting, Amy is credited with passing landmark occupational and professional licensing legislation, featured as a national expert in IIDA's 2017 Faces of Advocacy Report and participated in the Social Work Policy Institute's (SWIPI) Policy Practice Summit. As a Network for Social Work Management (NSWM) Policy Fellow, her co-authored editorial was published in the Human Resources Organizations, Management, Leadership and Governance Journal.

Amy is dedicated to improving access to safe and ethical mental health services for all. She received an Official Citation of Recognition from the state of Maryland in January 2015, in recognition of her tireless efforts within the legislative process on behalf of consumers of mental health services. In 2018, Utah Governor Gary Herbert signed HB177, Trauma-Informed Justice Provisions, into law. Amy currently serves as a voting member on Utah's Multi-Disciplinary Trauma-Informed Committee, under the direction of the Utah Commission on Criminal and Juvenile Justice. She recently completed her service on the National Board of Directors for the Council for Interior Design Qualification, whose members include state and provincial regulatory boards.

Amy is a proud alum of University of Southern California where she received a master's degree in Social Work. In addition to her lobbying and consulting work, Amy has practiced as a clinical therapist at Utah County's Department of Drug and Alcohol Prevention and Treatment and continues to see clients via private practice. She enjoys regular speaking invites at universities and colleges across the country.

11-15 years

Past president of Association of Connecticut Lobbyists

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

2019 Hartford Business Journal Forty Under 40

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

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

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

Regularly engaged in the highest-level budget and policy negotiations from within the innermost circles of Massachusetts state government

Worked closely with then-Chairman DeLeo to pass four state budgets, multiple bond bills and major pieces of legislation including health care reform and clean energy initiatives.

Responsible for shaping the House legislative agenda, overseeing its execution and strategically advising the Speaker through high-stakes negotiations

Works closely with all parties including the Senate President and Governor, majority and minority legislative leadership, chairs and cabinet officials.

Policy Advisor at Preti Strategies

Chief of Staff and Chief Policy Advisor to Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

Chief of Staff and Press Secretary to House Committee on Ways and Means

Chief of Staff and Press Secretary to House Committee on Bills in the Third Reading

Education:

Suffolk Law School
Hamilton College
Belmont Hill
The Fessenden School

15-20 years

Steve Wise joined the Firm in 2002 and became a partner in 2008. Early in his career with the Firm he was recognized by the The Gazette as one of the "Rising Stars" of the State House lobbying corps, and he has consistently ranked among the top earning lobbyists in Annapolis since that time.

Steve represents a diverse group of clients before the General Assembly and State agencies, including trade associations and companies in the alcoholic beverage, insurance, gaming, health care, telecommunications and environmental industries.

Mr. Wise's legal practice focuses on administrative law and regulatory matters. He has appeared before the Liquor Boards in 16 of Maryland's 24 jurisdictions and before the Office of the Comptroller, representing alcoholic beverage licensees on licensing and enforcement matters. Steve also represents health care professionals in licensing and disciplinary proceedings before the Board of Physicians, insurance producers and premium finance companies before the Insurance Administration, and has represented maritime-related industries before the Department of Natural Resources. Steve has appeared in many of the State's Circuit Courts, and litigated cases both before the Court of Special Appeals and Court of Appeals.

Steve received his Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science in 1991 and his Masters degree in Public Administration in 1994, both from Florida State University. He graduated cum laude from the University Of Baltimore School Of Law in 2001, and he is admitted to the Maryland State Bar as well as the U.S. District Court for Maryland. Mr. Wise was born and raised on Maryland's Eastern Shore in Denton, and now resides in Annapolis with his wife Amy and twin sons.

Adrian joined MHSA in 2002, and became a member of Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, LLC in 2015. Prior to that, he served as the Assistant Vice President of Legislative Relations for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Adrian collaborated with key stakeholders to improve Michigan's business climate with high profile legislation such as Next Energy and the establishment of the Broadband Authority. Adrian was also influential during the passage of legislation to create the Metropolitan Airport Authority Act, which was responsible for the building and modernization of the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Airport.

Respected as one of Lansing's top lobbyists, Adrian specializes in economic development, energy and technology, environmental, insurance, banking and tax policy issues. Recent accomplishments include the passage of legislation that gave Jackson National the ability to expand their business. Adrian secured state investment for the Farmers Insurance expansion and the JW Marriott Hotel, both in Grand Rapids. He has been instrumental in the last three business tax code rewrites and worked on legislation to standardize college entrance testing.

Prior to his work at the MEDC, Adrian was the Legislative Liaison for the Department of Management and Budget where he was responsible for securing funding to build the Hall of Justice, Constitution Hall and the Vietnam War Memorial. Adrian began his career working as a legislative aide for three state Senators, later serving as director of public affairs. Adrian also worked as the public events coordinator for the Senate Majority Leader.

Adrian holds a bachelor's degree in Communications and Sociology from Western Michigan University (WMU), where he graduated with honors. While at WMU, Adrian served on the Board to Review the President's Address on Racial and Ethnic Harmony.

Adrian and his wife Erin live in East Lansing with their four girls.

Greg has been a force in public affairs and lobbying for the past 18 years, helping execute effective and successful government relations and public policy strategies for Fortune 500 companies, corporations, non-profits, labor organizations and trade associations.

A graduate of Oregon State University, Greg grew up in Natick and is well-known in Massachusetts and Washington, D.C. political circles, as he’s worked with many of Massachusetts’ top elected officials, including U.S. Rep. Stephen F. Lynch, U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton and former Lt. Gov. Tim Murray, among others.

Greg served as Chief Operating Officer of one of Boston’s most successful communications and public affairs firms before launching the public affairs division at Tenax in 2016 with his brother Pete.

Greg is an expert at public affairs, especially in highly-regulated industries. He’s worked effectively and successfully at the local, state and federal level, including representing interests in multiple states across the country for global corporations. He’s built coalitions to support strong public policies at every level of government, lobbied lawmakers locally and nationally, and created innovative strategies to overcome regulatory and legislative roadblocks for a variety of businesses and organizations.

His specialties include long- and short-term strategic planning; media and public affairs strategy; message development and discipline; earned media consulting; and managing grassroots, employee, stakeholder and customer communication mobilizations to impact public policy.

Whether it's fighting for free industry, creating protections for health care consumers, waging a local public affairs campaign, engaging elected officials to advance public policy or helping a business cut through legislative or regulatory red tape, Greg has the experience, relationships and knowledge to draft a strategic blueprint to get the job done.

20+ years

In 2020, named by the Hartford Business Journal as one of the top 50 most influential people in Hartford.

In 2017 she was honored as "Practitioner of the Year" by the Greater CT Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

In 2005, recognized by the Hartford Business Journal as one of eight top woman business owners.

Developed and implemented several Connecticut market entry initiatives for a global banking interest, outpatient medical and behavior health facilities and a renewable energy company.

Led several multi-organizational coalitions to pass landmark legislation on scholarship funding, tort reform, energy deregulation, managed care regulation and tax initiative opposition.

Drives business strategy and best practices for two separate and widely respected companies.

Appointed by the Mayor of Hartford to Chair the Hartford Parking Authority.

Prior to starting Sullivan & LeShane, Inc. (S&L) in 1983 and Sullivan & LeShane Public Relations in 1988, served as Director of External and Public Affairs for a highly respected statewide medical and vocational rehabilitation organization.

Member and Secretary of the University of Saint Joseph Board of Trustees and chairs the Academic Women's Leadership. Vice Chair of the Washington-based Public Affairs Council, a professional association of corporate/national organizations.

Holds a Master's Degree in Healthcare Finance from the Rensselaer Lally School of Business and a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Leadership and Community Development from Springfield College. Participated in select executive level programs at Stanford University and McGill University. In addition, participated in the Yale School of Management leadership program.

0-5 years

Leadership Iowa Graduate

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

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

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

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

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

Sandi Jones joined MHSA in 1996 and became a member in 2003. She adds over 20 years of governmental and community relations experience to the MHSA team and is considered one of Lansing's top ten lobbyists and one of the most powerful female lobbyists in Michigan.

Specializing in appropriations, judiciary, mental health, long term care, law enforcement, criminal justice, and education issues, Sandi enjoys influencing change in the legislative and regulatory processes.

Sandi holds a bachelor's degree in Communications with a minor in Marketing and a Master's in Public Administration, both from Western Michigan University (WMU). She holds the distinction of being the first female to have served as the president of the student body at WMU. Sandi is a member of the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, Pi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration, the Michigan Political History Society, the American Society for Public Administrators and is a founding member of In Forum and The White House Project.

In addition to her education-related organizations and associations, Sandi is a member of the March of Dimes Board of Directors, the Michigan Society of Association Executives, the Michigan Fraternal Order of Police, and the Children's Trust Fund. She is currently Chair of the Public Affairs Committee for the Michigan Chapter of the March of Dimes. She has helped build homes for Habitat for Humanity and facilitates mock law-making sessions with the Michigan Youth Leadership Forum, a program to introduce high school students with disabilities to state government. She also sits on the Board of Directors of Montessori Children's House of Lansing and volunteers for various other youth initiatives, including her favorite, Impact Lansing.

Sandi and her husband John reside in Mason with their five children.

KIM GOMES became a lobbyist in her own unique way. She did not get here through politics or law or a cause. Her earliest interests had nothing to do with lobbying. She was a gymnast and a competitor in ballroom dancing. That led to a degree from the University of Delaware in fitness management, and that led to a position at the University of Delaware as the coordinator in charge of the fitness class program on the campus. From there, it was on to work at an insurance office and brokerage firm, except Kim was looking for a new direction, and she thought lobbying would be fun.

Of course she did. She had a taste for the unexpected. She had the slow heartbeat that comes from winning competitiveness. She had a practical foundation of business, organizational and management experience.

Kim added in an academic component by earning a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Delaware. One of the faculty members was Ed Freel, formerly the Delaware secretary of state, and he connected her with Bob Byrd. It clicked, and Kim joined the firm.

Kim's background has been a fine fit, even her ballroom dancing. She paired with Tom Cook, who was the Delaware secretary of finance, for a charity "Dancing with the Stars" event, where they were judged the best dancers. See? Kim was right all along that lobbying could be fun.

11-15 years

David Adelman joined Cornerstone Government Affairs in 2010, bringing over 10 years of substantial experience in grassroots advocacy, developing and implementing strategic legislative campaigns, drafting and analyzing legislative language and reports and establishing, administering and advising political action committees.

Before joining Cornerstone, David worked for a law firm in West Des Moines where his practice focused on government relations, legislative law, PAC compliance and strategic advising, and election law. David continues to secure millions of dollars for clients through appropriation language, enables clients to secure major policy changes in a variety of issue areas and helps defeat language that would have been detrimental to clients' interests.

Prior to his role at the law firm, David worked with the Department of Justice, in the Iowa Attorney's General Office and clerked in the State Senate.

David worked in Washington, D.C. at the Democratic National Committee where he helped to design the voter protection program in 2004 and returned to Des Moines where he assisted in the establishment of the legal protection network for the Iowa Democratic Party. David served two terms on the Iowa Democratic State Central Committee; the Board of Directors for the Democratic Party.

Raised in Des Moines, David earned a B.S. in Marketing and Business Legal Studies from Miami University, and a certificate in International Business studying in London, England. He received his law degree with a Legislative Practice Certificate from Drake University Law School.

David and his wife, Liz, reside in Des Moines where they are active in the community and have three sons, Michael, Benjamin and Sam.

0-5 years

I have legislative experience in a variety of issues affecting the insurance industry and related sectors, including health insurance, property and casualty insurance and regulatory reform. Prior to joining Public Policy Partners, I was the Director of Government Relations for the Maryland Hospital Association. I also served as the Director of Government Relations for the Maryland Insurance Administration. I have a Juris Doctor from the University of Baltimore School of Law, a Masters of Business Administration from the University of Baltimore and a Bachelor's of Science from Salisbury University.

6-10 years

Recently was a part of a successful lobbying effort in 2019 to pass into law a major energy transition legislation for renewable energy development across the state that's become one of the top national models, also helped pass updated oil and gas industry laws, successfully passed Scope of Practice legislation in 2017 for a healthcare client (which is no easy task in NM), assisted a racing-industry client in strengthening regulations regarding illegal drug use and tax protections.

I have good professional relationships with several house and senate committees, committee chairs and legislative leadership, Governor's office, Environment Department and Energy and Natural Resources Agencies, NM Racing Commission

I was born and reared in Albuquerque, New Mexico and received my college education at the University of New Mexico. My father was a State Representative in the 70's and was a lobbyist for 37 years until his retirement in 2016, so New Mexico politics has been a big part of my family for a long time. My father started bringing me and my brother to the capitol when we were toddlers where I got to watch him in action and learn how things work at the legislature; and more importantly, how to talk and connect with people. Through many years of following my dad around the capitol and traveling with him around the state for work, I was able to receive a comprehensive, but also intimate education in politics, legislative affairs and the unique inner-workings of the political environment of New Mexico. This experience prepared me to be able to work effectively in the family business for the last few years of my dads career and
successfully carry on the business when he retired in 2016. I've also been successful in obtaining my own clients and working on a variety of important issues in the state ranging from healthcare to energy policy. I'm proud to have a solid reputation as an effective and trustworthy lobbyist and I enjoy advocating for my clients and helping them reach their legislative and regulatory goals.

20+ years

Jim is a highly accomplished senior executive, consultant, lobbyist and strategist with over 30 years of success in public policy, politics, government, energy, healthcare, financial services, transportation, state budget, local government, education and the nonprofit sector. Over the course of his career he has spearheaded legislation that has resulted in robust energy development, broader access to public k-12 education, enriched opportunities for higher education, higher air and water quality standards, major investments in transportation, and a healthy balance of power between the state and local governments.

Jim immerses himself in learning about his clients' needs and can put complex issues into relatable terms. He moves people to understand issues first and then support the policies he is advancing. It is because of this strategy and his leadership on oil and gas issues that he was presented with the Denver Business Journal's "Who's Who in Energy" award in 2017.

Some of Jim's highest accomplishments include creating the Arkansas River State Park, passing the Clean Air Clean Jobs Act and passing the Colorado School of Mines (CSM) Exemplary Institution Act, which enabled CSM to provide one of the highest quality and rigorous research experiences in the nation.

Jim has a Bachelor's of Science degree from Oregon State University. He has been married 38 years and he and his wife, Mary, have two adult children. Jim is an avid cyclist and has completed nine years of Ride the Rockies and Iowa's RAGBRAI. He also loves to fly fish and play guitar. His joy is seeing the humor that presents itself in everyday situations and sharing it whenever possible.

20+ years

John has drafted, amended and secured passage of more than 100 Pennsylvania laws in areas as diverse as liquor law, dairy products, chemicals, manufacturing, workplace safety, renewable energy and health care/health insurance. He has led coalitions of as many as 350 disparate organizations, and in just one instance, those efforts yielded more than $3.5 billion in funding for conservation, environment, preservation, libraries and zoos.

He served as a spokesman for the Commonwealth during the Three Mile Island nuclear accident and has coordinated national and international news media pools for major events.

With more than 40 years of experience inside and outside state government, John has developed thousands of professional relationships that can be brought to bear for clients. His professional experiences include private and public sectors, businesses and associations, C-level positions and client consulting. Those experiences and relationships cover issues from policy and program development to association management, and from key legislation to state agency regulations.

John Nikoloff has been providing advice, support, and hands on services in public affairs, public relations, politics and government relations since 1972. He is cofounder and President ERG Partners and Pennsylvania Energy Resources Group, serving companies on the East Coast and Washington, DC.

Since 2007, the ERG companies have assisted in development of energy and expansion projects and business development for 32 Pennsylvania companies. In the last five years, ERG secured more than $150 million in government grants, loans and contracts for energy and transportation clients. ERG is focused on providing services, strategic consulting, government relations and project support to firms involved in energy and alternative energy, transportation and manufacturing.

Nikoloff has more than 35 years of experience in energy, environment, economic development, agribusiness, health care public policy and business issues. He served from 2004-2006 as executive vice president and COO of a research and development firm, after 17 years as President and CEO of two Harrisburg-based public affairs and government relations firms. Nikoloff is widely recognized for his experience and unequaled legislative, regulatory, policy and funding successes for agriculture, environmental, energy and business clients.

He has represented more than 50 corporations, including Fortune 100 companies like Kodak, Procter & Gamble, Syngenta, Motorola, UPS and Novartis, as well as state and national business, trade and professional associations. John has also served as executive director of five trade and professional associations and chaired several statewide coalitions on issues.

Before he began strategic and public affairs consulting, Nikoloff served as chief of staff for the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. From 1971-1987, John served on communications and legislative staff in the Pennsylvania State House, the State Senate, and in executive positions under three Governors. He served in state agencies as press secretary and director of communications, director of legislative relations, director of policy and planning, director of marketing and chief of economic development.

He serves on the Board of the Penn State Ag Council and recently left the board of the SMC Small Business Council after 12 years. He was a founder of the Pennsylvania Association for Government Relations, and the Pennsylvania chapter of 25 x 25. John is active in the American Council on Renewable Energy, the National Small Business Association, and a member of the American Lobbying Association and the Pennsylvania Public Relations Society.

Throughout his career, John has remained actively involved in politics, managing local and state political and referendum campaigns, and on staff for national campaigns.

He received his B.A. degree in political science from Lebanon Valley College.

6-10 years

I served on the staff of Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman as a senior advisor in 2018 and assisted in her end of term transition out of public office.

Prior to joining Rome Smith & Lutz, Joseph attended Franklin & Marshall College in Lancaster, Pennsylvania; majoring in Government and minoring in French. After college, Joseph pursued a law degree at Quinnipiac University School of Law. While attending law school, he worked as a legal intern with Rome Smith & Lutz during the 2013 legislative session. After graduating from law school and passing the Connecticut bar examination in 2014, Joseph joined RSL full-time and has worked with the team for five years except for taking a leave of absence in 2018 to serve in the office of Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman as a Senior Advisor.

6-10 years

Named a "30 Under 30 Rising Stars in Florida Politics" by Florida Politics in 2014

Strong relationships in the Florida Department of Education, as well as the chairs and staff of education policy and appropriations committees in both legislative chambers, and many other agencies and policy areas, including the Department of Children and Families, Department of Corrections, and more.

Sara has more than a decade of experience in education policy and government affairs, starting as a K-12 public school teacher. She thrives on helping clients achieve complex and challenging goals and has become a respected and trusted voice for education policy issues in Tallahassee.

Sara joined McGuireWoods Consulting in 2018 after six years of leading government affairs for nonprofits in Florida. Prior to MWC, Sara led external and legislative affairs for Step Up For Students, the largest K-12 scholarship funding organization in the nation. Before that, she was the Florida Legislative Affairs Director for the Foundation for Excellence in Education. In addition to education, Sara has experience in the areas of child welfare, criminal justice, juvenile justice, healthcare, insurance, and more.

In 2011, while still in the classroom, Sara was nominated for Orange County Public Schools Teacher of the Year award. By 2014, Sara was named one of "30 Under 30 Rising Stars" by Florida Politics, the state's predominant political news site.

Sara received her bachelor's degree in English Education from the University of North Florida in 2007 and her master's degree in Education Policy and Evaluation from Florida State University in 2014.

Sara is a member of Leadership Florida, the American Enterprise Institute's State Leadership Network, and co-founder of Lean In Tallahassee. In her spare time, she volunteers as a guardian ad litem in Florida's Second Judicial Circuit and fosters dogs through a local animal rescue organization. Sara lives in Tallahassee with her husband, daughter, and rescue dog.

20+ years

Volunteer Firefighter - City of Milford
Fire Commissioner City of Milford
Emergency Medical Technician (Chamberlain Ambulance)
Harbor Management Commission
Board Member - Milford Mental Health
Historic District Commission
Vice Chairman Milford's 350th Celebration Committee
Vice Chairman Founders Walk Committee
Chairman Downtown River-High Street Committee
Commissioner - Judicial Selection

Pete is a former state representative from Milford's 119th district. During his time in the legislature, he was known for building consensus around issues and his passion for constituent causes. Serving as co-chair of the Conservation and Development sub-committee of the Appropriations Committee, Vice Chair of the Commerce Committee, and as a member of the Environment and Transportation Committees.

Pete joined the firm after four years leading the Connecticut Pari-Mutuel Association, becoming the President of the firm in 2006. Pete has served on numerous boards and commissions and was Campaign Chair of State Comptroller Nancy Wyman's 2002 campaign. He currently serves as a Governors Appointee on the Connecticut Judicial Selection Commission. Additionally, he is engaged with several charities that support children and their families battling cancer

20+ years

Mr. Shattuck's lobbying team is a past recipient of the American Society of Association Executives prestigious Award of Excellence in Government Relation

Actively involved in a number of professional and civic organizations, he is a past president of the Illinois Society of Association Executives (ISAE), a past chairman of the Business and Industry for Economic Concerns (BIFEC) and past President of Project Safe Illinois. He is a current member of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Small Business Advisory Board and the Illinois Workers Compensation Commission Advisory Board.

Mr. Shattuck is a graduate of the University of Illinois with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science. He received his Certified Association Executive (CAE) in 1992 and has been re certified through 2019. Prior to starting his own consulting firm in 1997, Mr. Shattuck was employed in the government relations departments for the Independent Insurance Agents of Illinois and Central Illinois Public Service (now Ameren). He also was the President, CEO of the Associated Employers of Illinois.

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.

20+ years

His recent work awarded Scott recognition for "the best lobbying on a single bill" in The Missouri Scout (2018).

Scott's experience has afforded him expertise on a wide array of policy issues from decades of meaningful partnerships. During his tenure in policy work Scott's leadership has ranged from coordinating teams of lobbyists on mutual issues over multiple firms, to being the solo antagonist opposing and negotiating legislation.

His recent work awarded Scott recognition for "the best lobbying on a single bill" in The Missouri Scout (2018).

Scott oversees all aspects of The Penman Group's legislative and policy affairs. His time in the Missouri Capitol is reserved primarily for strategic client representation, engaging with policymakers through one-on-one meetings, testifying before legislative committees, and forging critical relationships.

When he's not managing The Penman Group, Scott is likely traveling to one of his favorite fly fishing spots or taking his family on a camping trip in Colorado.

20+ years

Kathie began her career in government relations and policy more than 20 years ago. Combining a background in political activism and experience with the private sector allowed her to bring a unique skill set to clients looking for assistance with their governmental needs.

Throughout her time with Rome Smith & Lutz, Kathie has represented a diverse range of clients, managing their goals, planning their strategy and offering advice on implementation.

From impacting environmental policy, working for tax relief for innovation companies and helping to pass first in the nation patient protections Kathie offers broad experience and skill to all clients. She remains active in local, state and national politics.

11-15 years

Member of the Delaware Bar Association
Member of the Maryland Bar Association

REBECCA BYRD knows government, policy and politics with the inside knowledge that comes from broad experience with all three branches of government, and she combines it with the perspective of a lawyer. She can draft legislation. She can lobby for it. She can decipher federal and state regulations.

There was a method to Rebecca's decision not to specialize in just anything. With the breadth of her background, she is ready for everything. Rebecca is a third-generation practitioner. Her grandmother was an aide to Gov. Sherman W. Tribbitt, her father is Bob Byrd, and here she is to carry on the family tradition. Rebecca was the deputy legal counsel to Governor Ruth Ann Minner and a deputy attorney general in the state Justice Department under Attorney General Beau Biden. She also clerked on the Delaware Supreme Court for Justices Carolyn Berger, Jack Jacobs and Henry duPont Ridgely and served as a liaison for the court to the General Assembly.

She is the author of articles on Delaware's Coastal Zone Act (Delaware Chamber of Commerce, 2016) and a co-author of "50 State Survey: The Law of Eminent Domain"" (American Bar Association, 2012). Rebecca is a member of the Delaware State Bar Association and the American Bar Association, where she is a member of the Business Law Section and its Government Affairs Committee. She is a graduate of the George Washington University and the Catholic University of America School of Law.

20+ years

City Council Member, Windsor Heights

Leadership Iowa

Licensed Foster Parent

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

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

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

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

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

Before joining Cornerstone, Frank Chiodo most recently served as Deputy Secretary of State under Iowa Secretary of State Michael Mauro. While with the Iowa Department of Economic Development, Frank worked closely with Governor Tom Vilsack and Lieutenant Governor Sally Pederson to secure passage of the Iowa Values Fund, the largest and most successful economic development program in state history.

Frank also worked on Senator Tom Harkin's 2002 Senate campaign, and in 1999-2000 helped Vice President Al Gore secure a victory in the Iowa Caucuses.

Frank served in the Iowa House of Representatives representing District 67 in Des Moines from 1997 through 2003. He was ranking member of the Commerce Committee and elected as the minority whip.

In 2017, Frank was recognized by the Iowa General Assembly as a Pioneer Lawmaker.

20+ years

In 2017, Governor-elect Phil Murphy selected Eric to serve on the Human Services Committee for his transition team. During that same year, he was nominated by Kentucky State Senator Jimmy Higdon and commissioned by Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin to become a Kentucky Colonel.

In 2004, Eric was nominated by New Jersey Governor Jim McGreevey to serve on the South Jersey Port Corporation's Board of Directors, which is responsible for the development of port facilities in South New Jersey. Eric was reappointed in 2008 by Governor Corzine and again in 2017 by Governor Chris Christie.

In 2018, Eric was appointed to the Advisory Board of the Burbank International Film Festival.

Eric is also a founding member of the Board of Directors for the NYC Fashion Manufactures Alliance of Design Educators and Save the Garment Center in New York City; a position he's held since 2008.

In 2007, Eric was selected by the American Council of Young Political Leaders, a bi-partisan not-for-profit international exchange organization, as a delegate to Vietnam for a two-week political exchange program. Eric joined six other young political leaders from the U.S. to study Vietnam's political system, engage in dialogue on international issues, and forge professional relationships. He's also participated in international trade missions, including trips to the Netherlands, China and the United Arab Emirates.

Eric was appointed in 2007 by New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine to serve as a member of the Economic Growth Council to assist with statewide economic development policies.

Eric is a former Committee Chairman for the Mercer County College Board of Trustees Advisory Committee and a former member of the Board of Trustees for the Arts & Business Partnership of Southern New Jersey. He's served on the boards of the Mercer County Workforce Investment Board, the Mercer County Economic Development Committee and Junior Achievement. Eric was appointed by Assembly Majority Leader Paul DiGaetano in 2002 to the New Jersey Council of Local Mandates and served as Vice Chairman until 2004.

15-20 years

Mr. Finseth has over 25 years of experience in the field of government having worked in Washington, D.C, Hawaii and Nevada. As the principal of Carrara Nevada since 2003, Mr. Finseth has been at the forefront of the companies explosive growth in the state. Mr. Finseth provides one on one attention to all of our clients both large and small. Carrara Nevada is recognized as a bipartisan firm with relationships on both sides of the political aisles. Our work in Nevada spans the spectrum of many of the major sectors and industries that drive our states economy.