OEC Leadership Council

As Chief Executive Officer for the Ohio Environmental Council (OEC), Carol Kauffman is responsible for providing vision and strategic direction for both organizations. She leads by investing in community and coalition, motivating others, and inspiring both internal and external stakeholders to support the OEC’s mission of securing healthy air, land, water, and democracy for all Ohioans.

Kauffman brings more than two decades of nonprofit and corporate experience advocating for environmental, community, and social justice issues as well as directing sustainability programs and strategies. From 2013 to 2017, Kauffman worked in the nonprofit sector in Cambodia where she designed development projects, helped businesses develop more responsible practices, and responded to natural disasters in the region. Since 2017, Kauffman led environmental and social responsibility efforts within the corporate sector at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, and most recently, at Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Within these positions, she devised sustainability strategies, led philanthropic efforts, and engaged with a diverse array of stakeholders — including a nationwide network of environmental partners.

Kauffman earned her B.A. in English from Taylor University (1999) and Masters of International Development from Eastern University (2012).

She is a member of the board of directors for the Alliance for Water Efficiency and as a member of the board of commissioners for the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission.

Kauffman serves as President of the OEC’s 501(c)(4) sibling organization, the OEC Action Fund.

Riley was born and raised in Waterville, Ohio, and recently graduated from the Ohio State University with degrees in Economics and Public Policy Analysis. During her time at Ohio State, Riley was the political director of OSU’s College Democrat chapter and completed internships with Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, Nucor Public Affairs, and Columbus City Councilmember Rob Dorans. She is excited to join the OEC to increase the power of the environment in Ohio politics. Outside of work, Riley enjoys spending time outdoors and exploring different restaurants around Columbus.

Kobe was born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, staying active with all sorts of outdoor hobbies. Exploring nature became a necessity in life, even leading into college where he attended The Ohio State University to study Strategic Communications and Professional Writing. Following school, his skillset was honed through various positions in the social media, marketing, and communications industry.

Currently, he supports the OEC through creative and concise communications practices. Being a strong supporter of local non-profit leadership, Kobe also serves as a Board Director for At Home By High and does freelance writing and marketing consulting. In his free time, he loves to hike, camp, read, and travel as much as possible.