The Steering Committee is the overall governing body of the Sierra Club Ohio. It makes broad policy decisions and sets the overall goals that guide Ohio's work.
Lisa Rooney, Columbus - Strategic Planning Chair
Lisa has more than 30 years of professional experience as an attorney, manager, and research administrator in both public and private sectors. Her management experience includes developing partnerships, working with new ventures, and facilitating consortia between industry, university, and government agencies to launch technologies resulting from university research. Much of this work has been focused on green energy and environmental technologies. Lisa is semi-retired but continues as a partner with the Vortechs Group providing economic engagement and innovation recruiting services to universities and non-profit research organizations. Volunteering has always been an important part of her life and in most recent years, she has been active within the Sierra Club as a member of the Grassroots Network Support Team and the Leader Recruitment Committee as well as participating with several Ohio Chapter teams. Lisa has a passion for the outdoors and nature and spends much of her time hiking in Ohio and New Mexico among other places around the world.
Bob Shields, Cleveland- Conservation Chair
Both as a professional and from a personal conviction, Bob has long been involved with the environment and sustainability. During his 30 years of service in the U.S. Coast Guard he was deeply involved in pollution prevention, general protection of the environment, responding to environmental incidents and teaching various courses in the Marine & Environmental Science major at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy. Bob’s academic interests have also revolved around water, specifically estuaries, and his Masters in Botany included research on the Chesapeake Bay with later estuarine research at Old Woman Creek NERR. His interest in water extends to recreation and he and his wife are both rowers and avid kayakers. Bob also enjoys hiking, gardening, photography and, with his wife, travel. A life member of the Sierra Club, Bob has during his 18 years in the Club served as the Chair of the Ohio Chapter. Bob fully supports the mission of the Sierra Club and its role in addressing the myriad environmental and sustainability issues in Ohio.
Andrew Linebarger, Cleveland
Andrew has dedicated his professional career to advancing sustainability. With a Master's degree in Sustainability Management and Policy from Penn State, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table. As a Data Analyst at The Recycling Partnership, he has been instrumental in addressing systemic barriers to recycling access across the United States. Andrew's ability to analyze large sets of data allows him to identify and tackle critical challenges, making him a vital asset in our efforts to promote sustainable practices. Beyond his professional pursuits, Andrew's passion for athletics as a track and field coach demonstrates his commitment to holistic well-being. His presence in the greater Cleveland area, alongside his wife Claire and their beloved dog Daisy, brings a strong local perspective to our committee.
Gwen Short, Dayton
Gwen's journey towards environmental advocacy began in Dayton, where she explored the beauty of the Miami Valley and developed a profound sense of stewardship. As an outdoor educator, Gwen inspired others to appreciate and care for our natural world while actively breaking down barriers to outdoor recreation. Her transition from education to the legal field demonstrates her commitment to social justice. As a social justice lawyer, Gwen brings a unique perspective to our committee, advocating for Ohioans and the environment. Her passion for seeing Ohio thrive in every aspect aligns perfectly with our vision, and her legal expertise will be instrumental in addressing environmental challenges and supporting the communities we serve.
Lakshmi Prasad, Cincinnati
Lakshmi is a community health and international development professional with a strong commitment to gender equity and the intersection of climate change and health. Her experience in building better health systems and programs resonates deeply with our mission. Lakshmi's passion for understanding how climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, particularly women, aligns perfectly with our commitment to environmental justice. Her expertise and dedication will help us drive positive change within Ohio's communities and promote sustainable practices that prioritize the well-being of all.
To learn more about the next steps and work of the Steering Committee, please check out this FAQ.