Listen to the PodcastAccording to Hannah Halbert, "Public policy put me here." She grew up in rural Kentucky, raised by her mother who held several jobs and wrote obituaries for the local paper. Social Security dependent benefits gave her mom security after losing her dad in a workplace shooting. Later on, her stepdad worked as a coal miner in a region where the United Mine Workers ensured good wages and safe workplaces. Hannah would go on to receive a bachelor’s degree from Transylvania University, a master’s in nonprofit management, and a law degree from Hamline University.
Just over two decades ago, Amy Hanauer started Policy Matters Ohio with a vision to build a more vibrant, equitable, sustainable, and inclusive Ohio. In 2020, just before the pandemic hit Ohio, Hannah Halbert took over the reins as the next Executive Director. Hannah first joined Policy Matters in 2010 as a policy liaison in the organization's Columbus office. She led successful efforts to protect unemployment compensation benefits and advocate for workers against wage theft. Today, her life experiences shape her dedication to Policy Matters’ mission of building an Ohio where everyone thrives. Hannah also serves on the board of the Central Ohio Worker Center and the Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations.
Join us in Public Square as we learn more about Hannah's journey to Executive Director, what lies ahead for state policy, and how the organization’s work has changed (or not) as the statehouse grows more divided.
The livestream will be available beginning at 12:00 p.m. Have questions? Tweet them at @TheCityClub or send a text to 330.541.5794.
Rain doesn't stop the show! Our rain location is Old Stone Church, located on Public Square at 91 Public Square, Cleveland, Ohio, 44113.
