Rafe Lewis joined the OEC as our Managing Field Director in November, 2021. As the Managing Field Director for the Ohio Environmental Council, Rafe supervised Field Advocacy Directors who work at the local level to mitigate climate change, secure healthy air, safe water, and vibrant public lands for all who call Ohio home. In his current role, he serves as our Engagement and Advocacy Strategy Director, supporting strong and diverse external partnerships and internal advocacy strategy.

Rafe comes to the OEC after spending more than 30 years serving a variety of organizations to advance ideas in government. He has spent his career navigating political systems on behalf of minority businesses, grassroots organizations, and healthcare issues. His specialty is building coalitions for progress; fundraising for issues and candidates as well as amplifying unconventional and often ignored voices. Rafe is certified in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Workplace. He is a proud Alumni of the Ohio State University and Columbus State Community College.