The Ohio Justice and Policy Center is pleased to announce the appointment of Michaela Burriss as our new Policy Director. Burriss brings a wealth of legislative experience and public service expertise to our team, and will be instrumental in helping us to continue our goal of ensuring every person dignity after their conviction and freedom after their sentence by offering a spectrum of free legal services, programs, and resources.
As part of her new role, Burriss will spearhead policy strategy, legislative engagement, and advocacy efforts to further our mission.
“We are thrilled to have Michaela on board,” said Gabe Davis, CEO of the Ohio Justice and Policy Center. “She brings a passion for justice to her work, and her extensive experience in legislative affairs, public policy, and community engagement will be invaluable as we continue to serve Ohioans who are finding their way after incarceration.”
“I am excited to join the Ohio Justice and Policy Center and look forward to working with our team and partners to make a real difference in the lives of those who are in all stages of incarceration,” said Burriss.
Burriss most recently served as a Senior Legislative Aide in the Ohio House of Representatives, where she managed legislative strategy, policy research, and stakeholder engagement. She has also served on the Upper Arlington City Council, as the youngest woman to hold elected office in the city. Burriss has worked to pass legislation on issues such as public health, domestic violence support, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Burriss holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Pre-Law from Ohio University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Capital University Law School. She is the recipient of the League of Women Voters of Ohio 2023 Judge Florence E. Allen Outstanding Public Service Trailblazer Award, an honor shared with former Ohio Supreme Court Chief Justice Maureen O’Connor.
To learn more about our work and our ongoing initiatives, visit https://ohiojpc.org/.
About the Ohio Justice and Policy Center
The Ohio Justice and Policy Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit law firm with offices in Cincinnati and Columbus, Ohio. We fight for equal justice and fair treatment in all stages of incarceration, because every person deserves dignity after their conviction and freedom after their sentence.
We offer a spectrum of free legal services, programs, and resources for people in all communities who lack essential support as they navigate the complexities of our criminal legal system.