20 UNDER 40: Chris Redfern

Ohio House of Representatives

Nominated by Dr. Bart Anderson

After receiving his Masters degree from Bowling Green in 1991, Chris Redfern focused his efforts on public service in the Port Clinton area. In 1993, he became an Ottawa County Commissioner - the youngest in the state and the youngest in county history. During his tenure as an Ottawa County Commissioner, Redfern focused on expanding the county's infrastructure, improving services, and strengthening economic development. Redfern led Ottawa County's recycling programs for two years before being elected commissioner.

Six years later, he was elected to the Ohio General Assembly. His peers unanimously selected him as the Democratic Leader of the Ohio House of Representatives in December 2002. As the Democratic Leader of the House, ReDfern represents more than 4 million Ohioans and crafts an agenda of solutions that reflects the concerns and challenges facing families.

Redfern's community involvement includes: Immaculate Conception Church, Serving Our Seniors; Port Clinton Kiwanis Club; Firelands Audubon Society; Kelleys Island Audubon Society; Port Clinton, Sandusky, Erie County, Milan, and Vermilion Chambers of Commerce; Elks Lodge 1718; Ottawa County Democratic Club; Ottawa County Democratic Executive Committee; Ottawa County Board of Social Concerns; Farm Bureau; Farmers Union; Friends of East Harbor State Park; Friends of Erie MetroParks; Habitat for Humanity; Pheasants Forever Rooster Booster; Ducks Unlimited; NAACP Life Member; MS Society; Sandusky Blue Streaks Athletic Boosters-, and Friends of Thomas Alva Edison Museum.

Redfern is a graduate of Port Clinton High School and Bowling Green State University. He also earned a master's degree from BGSU. He currently resides in Catawba Island Township with his wife, Roberta.