Buckeye Reporter

In a bid to fortify Ohio's commitment to mental health and addiction services, Governor DeWine has formally nominated LeeAnne Cornyn, his deputy chief of staff, for the position of director at the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. DeWine commends her comprehensive experience and unwavering dedication to initiatives that support children's behavioral health and vulnerable populations.

According to The National Press Foundation, Cornyn began her journey in 2015 as the Director of Children’s Initiatives for then-Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. In 2019, she was appointed by Governor-Elect Mike DeWine as Ohio’s first-ever Director of Children’s Initiatives. Her responsibilities included overseeing programs related to maternal and child health, early childhood education, children’s social and emotional development, and foster care.

The National Press Foundation further reports that in 2021, Cornyn progressed to become Governor Mike DeWine’s Director of Cabinet Affairs. She served as an essential liaison between the Governor and the directors of 26 state agencies. Later in January 2023, she was promoted to the position of Deputy Chief of Staff where she is committed to executing DeWine’s objectives.

As per the press release, Cornyn is a graduate from Miami University with a law degree from Ohio State University. She is set to succeed Lori Criss who will be transitioning into a role at Ohio State University subject to confirmation by the Ohio Senate.