After an exhaustive search, the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians (OAFP) has retained the services of a new legislative and regulatory lobbyist to advance our strategic aims by selecting Lauren Huddleston, JD, partner with NEA Consulting. Lauren starts her new role on Friday, July 1.
Lauren is an energetic and experienced coalition builder who has a track record for maintaining strong relationships with advocates on both sides of the aisle in the Capital Square community and across many stakeholder organizations. As a small, nimble firm, NEA Consulting can provide tailored services to meet the Academy’s unique communication and policy needs. Lauren will be the perfect fit as she works closely with OAFP’s new Government Relations Director to build an enhanced member advocacy strategy for the Academy.
Saying goodbye to a trusted advisor…
David Paragas, JD, OAFP’s government relations lobbyist and legal counsel for the past 30 years has made the decision to step away to pursue other opportunities. With David’s astute legislative and institutional knowledge on policy issues, he has helped the Academy establish its reputation as a credible and patient-centered advocacy organization at the statehouse. The relationships that David has forged extend not only to legislators and key healthcare stakeholders, but also to countless family physicians and allied professionals. His talents are appreciated and the Academy wishes him well in his future professional and personal pursuits.
A gift of appreciation was made in David’s honor to the Junior Achievement of Central Ohio for his work on the Board and as a member of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee. His commitment to advancing diversity among Ohio’s youth is certainly a principle that connects with the heart of family medicine.
Thank you, David!