Best Buddies in Ohio is proud to announce three new members to the Southwest Ohio Advisory Board, a group of local business and community leaders dedicated to advancing inclusion and opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Joining the Advisory Board are:

• Ryan Druffel, Director of Innovation & New Models, eCommerce, The Kroger Co.
• Lindsay Flesher, Employment Practices Analyst, The Kroger Co.
• Tammy Martin, Head of Total Rewards, HRIS, People Analytics & Payroll, The Gorilla Glue Company

These leaders join a growing advisory team focused on expanding Best Buddies’ presence across Cincinnati, Dayton, and surrounding communities. Collectively, they will support corporate partnerships, brand awareness, and strategic fundraising efforts that directly impact local programs.

The Advisory Board is chaired by Connie Mehlman, a 25+ year advocate of Best Buddies and the disability community. Connie’s involvement began through her work at the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities. She served as the Host Site Coordinator for the Best Buddies friendship chapter at Miami University, and now supports as the Advisory Board Chair. Over the years, she has also played a key role in expanding Best Buddies’ presence and programs.

Continuing her service on the board is Kate Malo, a longtime supporter of Best Buddies whose involvement dates back to her leadership at the Best Buddies friendship chapter at Miami University, where she served as chapter president. Since then, Kate has chaired multiple event committees and has been a driving force behind community engagement in the region.

“Southwest Ohio is seeing exciting growth and this Advisory Board will play a critical role in helping us build what comes next,” said Casey Goldman-Davis, Area Director of Best Buddies in Southwest Ohio.

Best Buddies currently serves 700+ participants across Southwest Ohio through K12, college, and adult friendship programs, as well as leadership development trainings. With chapters in Hamilton, Butler, Warren, and Montgomery counties, the region continues expanding into new communities.

For more information about Best Buddies in Ohio or how to get involved, visit: www.bestbuddies.org/ohio