Bliss Institute Hosting Statehouse Event

Akron, Ohio, April 3, 2003 — Leaders from Ohio's Democratic and Republican parties will be recognized by The University of Akron on April 9 for their outstanding service to the democratic process.

UA's Bliss Institute of Applied Politics will present an Honorary Certificate in Applied Politics to James M. Ruvolo of Toledo and James R. Tilling of Hilliard at a reception to be held in the Ohio Statehouse Atrium in Columbus.

Presenting the awards on behalf of the University of Akron will be Dr. John C. Green, Bliss Institute director; Dr. Stephen Brooks, Bliss Institute associate director; and UA President Luis M. Proenza.

The Honorary Certificates in Applied Politics are awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution in the field of applied politics, Green says.

“James Ruvolo and James Tilling have demonstrated the values exemplified by Ray C. Bliss — including ethical conduct, service to the democratic process and excellence in their work in public service,” he adds.

James Ruvolo is the founder of Ruvolo & Associates, a firm providing public affairs and government relations counsel to a diverse client group. The firm develops and implements strategies in crisis and issues management, community relations, government affairs and political campaigns.

Ruvolo served as a senior adviser for the Gore-Lieberman campaign in 2000 and the Clinton-Gore campaign in 1996. He also has served as co-chair of the Rules Committee for the 1992 Democratic National Convention; vice chair of the Democratic National Party; and executive director and chairman of the Ohio Democratic Party.

James Tilling retired in 2002 after 31 years of service to the state of Ohio. He has served as chief of staff for Ohio Attorney General Betty D. Montgomery; co-author of the bipartisan congressional redistricting plans and secretary to the Ohio Apportionment Board; and member and staff chair for the Reapportionment Task Force of the National Conference of State Legislatures.

In 1977, Tilling joined the staff of the Ohio Senate's Republican Caucus as director of communications and research, and twice served as minority chief of staff. He was elected clerk of the senate for 1981-82 and served as chief executive officer of the Ohio Senate from 1984-94.

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