Barbara E. Riley
Barbara Riley was appointed director of the Ohio Department of Aging by Governor Ted Strickland in February, 2007. As director, she is leading the state-wide, team effort to revamp Ohio’s long-term care system, ensuring seniors have long-term care options that meet their choices and needs, while also containing Medicaid costs. Under her guidance, the department also is working to promote healthy and active aging by making sure employment and volunteerism and life-long learning opportunities are available to older Ohioans.
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. She served in several offices in the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, including 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)
