The County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health (ADM) Services Board welcomed three new members last month.  Lucas M. Blower, Vivianne Whalen Duffrin and Rev. Russell T. Ham were sworn in by Summit County Common Pleas Judge Todd McKenney at the September meeting.

The ADM Board of Directors is comprised of 14 Summit County resident volunteers who provide leadership in policy formation and fund allocation. They serve as representatives of the Summit County community through appointments made by two appointing authorities.

Akron resident, Lucas M. Blower, is a partner practicing in the area of complex litigation with Brouse McDowell, a law firm that has been in Akron for nearly 100 years. Mr. Blower is twice a graduate from the University of Akron, where he earned his undergraduate and law degrees. His appointment was made through the Summit County Council and his term of office runs from 7.1.16 through 6.30.20. He comments, “The ADM Board is on the front line of addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing our community. I am happy to have the opportunity to join its cause.” 

Green resident, Vivianne Whalen Duffrin is employed as an assistant Stark County Prosecutor, Civil Division and is co-founder of Whalen Duffrin LLC where she practices in the areas of employment law,  personal injury and general civil litigation.  She received a bachelor of science degree from The Ohio State University and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Akron School of law.  Ms. Duffrin was appointed through the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services to complete an unexpired term through June 30, 2020. Ms. Duffrin comments about her appointment: “I look forward to serving and having a role in ensuring all Summit County residents in need of mental health or substance abuse treatment get the help they need.”

Northfield resident, Rev. Russell T. Ham, serves as the Senior Pastor at the United Methodist Church in Macedonia. Rev. Ham received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Miami University and his Master of Divinity from Ashland Theological Seminary. Rev. Ham was appointed through the Ohio Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services and his term began on July 1, 2016 and will continue through June 30, 2020. Rev. Hamm commented on his appointment: “Summit County sets high standards for caring with its ADM Board Services.  As both a pastor and an alcoholic, I am humbled by the opportunity to add my time and energy to the life-changing work of the ADM Board.  I also have a lot to learn!”