3 Things You Need to Know:
Election Officials Annual Conference: Election officials from Ohio's 88 counties gathered this week in Columbus for the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State Annual Conference. The event brought together bipartisan election leaders to celebrate accomplishments, share best practices, and hear from nationally recognized experts on the issues shaping election administration. Attendees left better prepared for the important work ahead as Ohio gears up for the 2026 General Election.
Awards for Excellence: Secretary LaRose honored several individuals and county boards of elections at the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State Annual Conference. Award recipients were recognized for their outstanding work to ensure Ohio maintains secure and accessible elections. The list of award winners include:
2025 Pat Wolfe Election Official of the Year:
Bethany Phillips, Brown County
Chelsea Cline, Noble County
2025 Precinct Election Official of the Year:
Denise Etzler, Henry County
Judy Nagy, Erie County
Stan Fitzgerald, Marion County
2025 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award:
Kacey Sanders, Montgomery County
2025 Best Use of Social Media Award:
Madison County
2025 Verify Ohio Accurate Information Award:
Gallia County
2025 Board of the Year:
Vinton County16,141 New Business Filings in May: The Ohio Secretary of State’s office is proud to report that 16,141 new businesses were registered in May, bringing the 2026 total to 91,719. As the starting point for all new businesses in the state, the Secretary of State’s office provides essential resources for entrepreneurs. Check out Ohio's new Business Data Dashboard for more detailed information!
Celebrate Voting and America's 250th Birthday!
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose this week unveiled a limited-edition America 250 "I Voted" sticker in commemoration of the United States' 250th birthday and Ohio's role in preserving and strengthening American democracy. The sticker will be available to voters who cast their ballot in person during early voting or on Election Day. Watch the unveiling of the new sticker here.
Verify Ohio Weekly Update:
Question
How does Ohio protect its farm lands from bad actors?
Let's Verify!
In Ohio, the Save Our Farmland and Protect Our National Security Act helps protect Ohio's agricultural lands - and our food supply -from bad actors.
Foreign adversaries, terrorist organizations, and state sponsors of terrorism are prohibited by law from acquiring agricultural land in Ohio. Suspected violations of this law can be reported to our office here.
We created Verify Ohio as a trusted source for election information and business education. Follow us on your favorite social media channels @VerifyOhio.
Updates From Across Ohio
Secretary LaRose opened the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State Annual Conference. The Secretary thanked members of Ohio's 88 county boards of elections for their work and dedication to keeping Ohio's election secure and accessible.
On the first day of the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State Annual Conference, Secretary LaRose moderated a panel discussion featuring former U.S. House Committee on Elections General Counsel Caleb Hays and U.S. Election Assistance Commission Commissioner Benjamin Hovland. The conversation explored key issues shaping election administration and highlighted emerging challenges and opportunities facing election officials across the country.
The incomparable Cameron Mitchell delivered the keynote address at the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State Annual Conference. Drawing on his experience as a leader, entrepreneur, and customer service expert, Cameron shared valuable insights on leadership, organizational culture, and the importance of putting people first. His remarks inspired attendees to continue serving Ohio voters with excellence and dedication.
Katie Harbath of Anchor Change delivered an engaging presentation on artificial intelligence and its growing role in today's world. Drawing on her expertise in technology, communications, and digital strategy, she helped conference attendees better understand AI, its practical applications, and how emerging technologies can be used responsibly and effectively in their work. Her session provided valuable insights into navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
Bethany Phillips (pictured left) of Brown County and Chelsea Cline (pictured right) of Noble County were honored as recipients of the 2025 Pat Wolfe Election Official of the Year Award. Through their professionalism, dedication, and commitment to excellence, both individuals have demonstrated exemplary leadership in administering safe, secure, and accurate elections.
Ohio Secretary of State candidates, State Representative Allison Russo and Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague, each addressed attendees at the 2026 Ohio Secretary of State Annual Conference. Joined on stage by 10TV's Doug Petcash, the candidates discussed their priorities for Ohio elections and shared their visions for the future of the Secretary of State's office.
Secretary LaRose presented the Vinton County Board of Elections with the 2025 County Board of Elections of the Year Award in recognition of its outstanding service, professionalism, and dedication to the voters of Vinton County. The award reflects the hard work and dedication of the entire team and their ongoing efforts to uphold the integrity of Ohio's elections.
Secretary LaRose, election officials, and members of the Secretary's staff participated in the annual Dash for Democracy 5k during the annual conference. Great energy, great teamwork, and a great way to kick off day two of the conference!
Conference attendees joined Secretary LaRose to "Raise a Glass to Democracy" on Monday. The Secretary made a special toast to all Ohio's elections officials for the hardwork and dedication to maintaining Ohio as the Gold Standard of election administration.
Secretary LaRose addressed the annual Buckeye Girls State conference, which is designed to educate Ohio's young women about rights and the responsibilities of good citizenship and encourage them to be actively engaged as leaders in their communities.
In Case You Missed It:
Ohio Voters to Receive Special Sticker in November
A special voting sticker will be distributed to voters in the midterm election. When voters head to the polls for the Tuesday, Nov. 3 election, they could receive a commemorative “I Voted” sticker. The sticker’s design includes the 250th year of the nation.
Secretary LaRose Sends Over 150 Thousand Voter Information Packets to Graduating Seniors as Part of Grads Vote Initiative
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose has sent over 150,000 Grads Vote packets to graduating high school seniors to encourage civic engagement and recruit Election Day poll workers as part of the Youth at the Booth program.
LaRose Visits Buckeye Girls State, Swears in Newly-Elected Officials
Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose spoke about the importance of voting and leadership when he visited Buckeye Girls State on Wednesday.