NOMINATION PETITION

Chad is collecting signatures from contributing (active) teachers to be placed on the ballot for a contributing seat on the STRS Ohio Retirement Board.

Eligible to sign are members presently contributing or those who have contributions on deposit with STRS Ohio. Not eligible to sign this petition are retired teachers or STRS Ohio retirees who are reemployed in an STRS Ohio-covered position, and those who do not have an account with the State Teachers Retirement System of Ohio. 

Print and sign the nomination petition. Electronic versions will not be accepted by STRS Ohio.

Send your completed nomination petition(s) to ORTA by February 14, 2025. Robin Rayfield, Executive Director of ORTA, will deliver the petitions to STRS Ohio.

Robin Rayfield, Executive Director,
Ohio Retirement for Teachers Association
250 E. Wilson Bridge Road
Suite 150

Worthington, Ohio 43085

WHO IS CHAD SMITH AND WHY IS HE RUNNING FOR THE STRS OHIO RETIREMENT BOARD?

As a 27-year veteran educator and passionate community leader, I have dedicated my career to empowering students, supporting educators, and improving my community. Currently, I teach Spanish at Centennial High School in Columbus City Schools. Throughout my career, I have embraced leadership opportunities, including serving as a Junior Faculty Representative for the Columbus Education Association, Mentor Teacher for Project ASPIRE, Electives Department Chair, member of the ABC Committee, Negotiations Team Member for CEA (2019), TBT facilitator, and World Language Presenter for professional development days.

Outside of my professional career, I have proudly served as President of the Greenbrier Civic Association for the past six years, leading a community of 365 households. My responsibilities include managing communications, chairing quarterly meetings, forecasting annual budgets, and overseeing three major capital improvement projects, such as neighborhood wall construction and repairs.

I feel compelled to serve on the STRS Board to ensure that active and retired teachers have confidence in their retirement. As a trustee, I will advocate for transparency in investments, prioritize funds with lower fees, promote fiscal responsibility, and protect cost-of-living adjustments whenever possible. I am also committed to working toward permanently lowering the years of service requirement for active teachers.

I bring a collaborative and diplomatic approach to problem-solving and will work to find solutions that serve all stakeholders. Together, we can build a stronger, more secure future for educators.