Friday's general session kicked off with an inspiring and positive speech by Dr. Amy Acton, former Ohio Director of Health and candidate for Ohio Governor. Dr. Acton said "It's time for a change in Ohio," who said she is deeply concerned that Ohio's biggest export is its young people who are leaving the state in droves. She said we must invest in good jobs and a strong economy, and build up and support public servants––Ohio's super heroes––will be the driving force behind positive and impacting change that will grow Ohio and public services for the better.

Dr. Acton thanked the OCSEA delegates for their service to Ohio and talked about her own history with public service––from a food-insecure child in the foster care system in Youngstown, Ohio, to a doctor, epidemic problem-solver and a leader in Ohio's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

"People ask, 'Is she tough enough for this,'" said Acton of her campaign to run for Ohio Governor. "I’m a very scrappy person” speaking to her Youngstown roots and determination. While her campaign is centered around kindness and common sense problem-solving, she said her "kindness should not be mistaken for weakness. That's a big mistake!" 

Acton said contagious hate and vitriol is tearing our state and our country apart, and that most Ohioans are longing for the same thing: a state where everyone has the same opportunity to unlock their greatest potential!

Dr. Acton said the "Calvary is not coming to save Ohio. The only way we get through this is to get through this together!" 

As government workers organize all over this country and this state, they are talking about public service, eliminating the hate and getting back on the same page together, she said. "This is the moment! We can win this. We must refuse to look the other way," she said. "I will be with you every step of the way. It  would be my honor to lead WITH YOU!” 

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