
Lisa A. Gray
Founding President, Ohio Excels
Gray’s career has been dedicated to improving the educational outcomes of all Ohio students. Prior to leading Ohio Excels, Gray had her own consulting practice specializing in public policy development, government relations, advocacy, strategic planning, and project management with an emphasis on public education. Prior to starting her consulting practice, Gray was the director of policy and communications at Battelle for Kids and served as project director of the Governor’s Commission for Student Success. The bipartisan commission, appointed by Ohio Gov. Robert Taft, developed recommendations for improving Ohio’s K-12 public education system. Gray also served as deputy executive assistant to Columbus, Ohio, Mayor Greg Lashutka. Prior to joining the mayor’s office, she served in a number of positions at the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce. Gray graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, with a bachelor’s in elementary education.