Crystal M. C. Davis is a visionary executive leader, now serving as the Senior Midwest Regional Director for the National Parks Conservation Association. With a rich history in executive leadership, her career is marked by influential positions in both Ohio and Washington D.C., spotlighting her profound expertise in government affairs, public policy, and strategic relationship management.

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Crystal’s recent role as Vice President of Policy & Strategic Engagement at the Alliance for the Great Lakes witnessed her spearheading key initiatives related to Lake Erie, drinking water policy, and regional relationship building. Her leadership steered the organization toward notable achievements in environmental protection and policy advocacy.

 

In 2016 she created the Thornton Buckeye Group, a boutique firm delivering comprehensive government relations and public affairs solutions. The firm nurtures a diverse client base by delivering impactful policy and communication strategies at local, state, and national levels.

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Crystal’s journey also includes pivotal roles at Kent State University as Federal Relations Director, where she established the federal office and crafted a forward-thinking policy agenda. Her influence extends to her tenure with the Ohio House of Representatives, the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, where she was instrumental in molding policies that align with principles of equity and environmental justice.

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She is a distinguished Kent State University alumna and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She also serves as an Ohio Lake Erie Commissioner and actively contributes to various boards, including the Black Environmental Leaders Association, Case Western Reserve Swetland Center Advisory Board, and the Ohio Climate Justice Fund Advisory Board, the Village of Healing Cleveland, among others. Recognized as a 2018 Crain’s Cleveland Business 40 under 40 Honoree and a 2021 Great Lakes Protection Fund Trailblazer, Crystal’s impact has been profound. She resides in northeast Ohio with her husband Jade and two children.