This information was accurate on August 24, 2016, when Ted Celeste spoke during a CMC forum.

Former State Representative Ted Celeste is Director of State Programs. Celeste leads Next Generation, a project of the National Institute for Civil Discourse. His goal is to inspire and support state legislators to promote greater understanding and better decision- making. As part of a bi-partisan team, Celeste has facilitated trainings for Colorado, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington Legislatures.

Celeste served in the Ohio Legislature from 2007-2012. Known for working effectively “across the aisle” whether he was in the majority or the minority, he has lived his belief in respectful dialogue. One of the only candidates for state office who insisted on running a positive campaign, he won each of his 3 races with a comfortable majority in a swing district. He was recognized for his emphasis on civil dialogue with the John Glenn Public Policy Institute’s Outstanding Public Service Award in 2011. Celeste lives in Columbus, Ohio, is married and has two daughters and 3 grandchildren.