Director of the Department

Barbara E. Riley

Barbara Riley was appointed director of the Ohio Department of Aging by Governor Ted Strickland effective February 1, 2007. As director, she brings an extensive background serving Ohio families, along with a unique understanding of the state's social service programs. Under her leadership, the department of 100+ full-time employees provides resources to assist thousands of service providers and advocates who serve more than 300,000 Ohioans annually.

Director Riley has more than 35 years of combined public and private sector experience. Her Ohio state government service began in 1990 as Chief of the Health, Human Services and Justice Division of the Legislative Budget Office. In 2000, Riley was appointed deputy director of the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Office for Children and Families. She was promoted to assistant director of the agency in February 2004, and the following December was appointed the agency's director.

Riley holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Pennsylvania State University, and a master's degree in Political Science and Public Policy from Washington University in St. Louis.

She currently resides in Columbus with her husband Tom McIndoe.

Past Directors

The Ohio Department of Aging has had seven directors:

Barbara E. Riley (2007 - Present)
Merle Grace Kearns (2005 - 2007)
Joan W. Lawrence (1999 - 2005)
Judith Y. Brachman (1991 - 1999)
Kenneth M. Mahan (1991)
Anne Harnish (1990 - 1991)
Carol D. Austin, Ph.D. (1988 - 1990)
Joyce F. Chapple (1984 - 1988)

The Ohio Commission on Aging had three executive directors:

Joyce F. Chapple (1983 - 1984)
Martin A. Janis (1974 - 1983)
David C. Crowley (1973 - 1974)