Welcoming Gabi Thompson to the State and Federal Communications Team

The State and Federal Communications team is excited to welcome our newest member, Gabi Thompson. A two-time alum of the University of Akron, Gabi joins the company after earning her Master of Applied Politics degree in December 2025. With a background in political science, government communications, and a strong interest in research, Gabi brings enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to the government relations industry.

Gabi has lived in the Akron area for most of her life and began developing her interest in government through her academic and professional experiences. During her time at the University of Akron, she earned her bachelor’s degree in political science before continuing her education and earning her master’s degree in applied politics. While pursuing her graduate studies, she took a government relations and lobbying course where State and Federal Communications President Elizabeth Bartz served as a guest speaker.

“Elizabeth Bartz was actually one of our guest speakers in that class,” Gabi shared. “So, I got to acquaint myself with her before. It’s kind of a full circle moment to now be here.”

Before joining State and Federal Communications, Gabi completed three internships with the Summit County Executive’s Office, working with its communications team. Her experience gave her the opportunity to see how different departments within government collaborate and provided a foundation for her transition into government relations.

While she is new to the government relations industry, Gabi is enjoying the opportunity to apply her academic knowledge in a professional setting and to learn new things each day. Her interest in research has also made the work particularly engaging, as she continues to explore different jurisdictions and regulations, she never imagined she would know so much about.

“I think it’s fun because I’m learning new things, which keeps me excited and motivated,” Gabi said. “You’re never doing the same thing two days in a row. You’re always learning new information.”

Looking ahead, Gabi hopes to continue building her knowledge and experience within government relations while making a positive impact through her work. Her interest in public service stems from a desire to help others and contribute to making the world a better place. She sees compliance as an important part of ensuring advocacy is conducted responsibly and in accordance with the rules.

Outside of work, Gabi enjoys spending time with her family and friends, exploring the outdoors, attending concerts, and visiting national parks. She recently traveled to Montana to visit Glacier National Park and enjoys hiking and walking whenever she gets the opportunity. Gabi also enjoys reading, playing video games, and participating in a Dungeons & Dragons campaign with friends.

A proud University of Akron alum, Gabi remains an enthusiastic Ohio sports fan and enjoys following teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Cleveland Guardians, and Cleveland Browns. She has also recently developed an interest in hockey after attending a Cleveland Monsters game and follows the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Gabi’s enthusiasm for learning, background in government communications, and interest in government relations make her a wonderful addition to the State and Federal Communications team. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to all she will accomplish.

Please join us in welcoming Gabi to the State and Federal Communications family!

Learn more about the trusted team of professionals at State and Federal Communications, Inc. here – https://stateandfed.com/about-us/

State and Federal Communications is excited to welcome Stephanie Underwood as our new Executive Assistant to President and CEO Elizabeth Bartz. With nearly two decades of executive support experience and a passion for helping leaders succeed, Stephanie brings a wealth of knowledge, organization, and enthusiasm to the team.

Stephanie’s professional journey into executive support began in 2008, but her administrative and creative experience started long before that. While raising her son, she worked part-time in a medical office and served her family’s church, where she managed graphic design, the website, and multimedia efforts, a role she continues to volunteer in today.

As her son grew older, Stephanie transitioned into a full-time corporate career at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, where she spent 18 years supporting executive leadership. Throughout her career, she discovered a clear professional goal for herself and that was to support a CEO.

“When I moved up through the different levels of being an executive assistant, I knew I always wanted to support a CEO,” Stephanie shared. “Being laid off gave me the opportunity to think about what I really wanted to do next. That journey ultimately led me to State and Federal Communications.”

While she is new to the government relations industry, Stephanie has enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the field. “It’s opened up a whole new world,” she said. “Working here has given me a different perspective, and I’ve really enjoyed learning about government relations.” Looking ahead, Stephanie hopes to continue growing in her role while supporting Elizabeth Bartz and the company’s mission.

Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys traveling with her husband, John, especially to Scottsdale and Las Vegas, taking cruises, riding motorcycles, and spending time with their son, daughter-in-law, and beloved “granddog”. She looks forward to one day becoming a grandmother to a beloved grandchild as well.

Stephanie’s dedication and commitment to supporting leadership make her a wonderful addition to the State and Federal Communications team. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to all she will accomplish.

Please join us in welcoming Stephanie to the State and Federal Communications family!

Learn more about the trusted team of professionals at State and Federal Communications, Inc. here.