Press Release

The OEC Welcomes Sarah Spence as Director of Government Affairs

Sarah Spence, March 27, 2017

The Ohio Environmental Council (OEC) recently hired Sarah Spence as their new Director of Government Affairs. Spence brings 14 years of experience in legislative and government affairs. She has an extensive background in building relationships with public policy makers to advance smart, bipartisan solutions to Ohio’s most pressing issues. She brings these skills to the OEC’s efforts to protect our air, water, and lands while making Ohio more prosperous.  

“We are excited to bring Sarah on board,” said OEC Executive Director Heather Taylor-Miesle. “Sarah has demonstrated an excellent ability to work across the aisle to initiate successful and meaningful public policy initiatives in education and public construction. Now, she can put those talents to work at Ohio’s most comprehensive and effective environmental advocacy organization.”   

“Growing up in Southeastern Ohio near the Ohio River, I had the privilege of seeing Ohio’s natural beauty, and how important it is to Ohio’s citizens and economy,” Spence said. “By working with both Democrats and Republicans, and advocating for smart environmental policy decisions at the Statehouse, we can work together to grow our economy and protect these valuable natural resources for all who call Ohio home.”

After earning her Bachelor’s of Science in Journalism, with an emphasis in public relations and political communications from Ohio University, Spence worked for the Ohio Secretary of State’s office as a regional field director, building relationships with elected leaders and boards of elections in 14 counties. Later, she joined the Ohio Senate, where she worked as a legislative aide for State Senator Gary Cates (SD04).

For the last six years, Spence served as the Legislative Affairs Manager for the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission where she helped shepherd legislation for construction reform, and the creation of the Facilities Construction Commission from the mergers of the State Architect’s Office, Ohio School Facilities Commission and Ohio Cultural Facilities Commission.