As a Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs Graduate Intern in the early 1990’s, Tom Norris conceptualized and initiated the three Summit(s) on Regional Competitiveness that brought both business and government leaders together in Northeast Ohio. The Summits were designed to develop strategies for regional economic competitiveness and cooperation across governmental jurisdictions. Tom engaged Senator Grace Drake, Representative Patrick Sweeney, and Senator Roy Ray to lead the Summit, thus initiating the College’s long-standing relationship with the Senators and Representative. Tom worked with Senator Drake to initiate legislation that formed the Ohio Taskforce on Regional Competitiveness and Cooperation. The two-year State Commission produced a report entitled “Charting the Course for Northeast Ohio: Final Report and Recommendations,” which continues to guide regional efforts in northeast Ohio.

One of Tom’s most lasting and significant contributions to the College was to introduce us to Senator Drake. The Senator has become a strong Advocate of the College and the Urban University Program (UUP) at the State level. In addition to extensive accomplishments in his career, Mr. Norris has been engaged in community and civic activities, serving as a school board president and high school football coach.