DRO Names Suzanne Musleh Legal Advocacy Director
April 5, 2023
Disability Rights Ohio (DRO), a non-profit advocacy group committed to protecting the civil and legal rights of Ohioans with disabilities, is pleased to announce the appointment of Suzanne Musleh as Legal Advocacy Director. In this role, Musleh will provide leadership and strategic direction for all DRO’s advocacy work, including coordinating complex litigation, serving as lead counsel on significant impact legal actions, and supervising attorney team leaders. In addition, Musleh will assist the DRO executive director in establishing, defining and implementing DRO’s goals and objectives.
“I am devoted to championing the legal, civil and human rights of people with disabilities by using a multifaceted advocacy approach to achieve equity and lasting change for Ohioans with disabilities,” Musleh explained. “I believe in safeguarding the rights of people with disabilities to ensure access, equal opportunity, inclusion, independence, and their full participation in all aspects of society. I am looking forward to working alongside dedicated DRO staff to find effective legal solutions that guarantee these fundamental rights are realized.”
Musleh brings extensive legal experience to her new role as Legal Advocacy Director. Her previous work with DRO as the leader of the Civil Rights and Integration team prepared her well for her new responsibilities. During that time, she supervised attorneys on client matters and systemic advocacy work. In addition to case and project management, she collaborated with key Ohio stakeholders, served on advisory boards, and presented on various topics to help advance the rights of people with disabilities.
Prior to her stint at DRO, Musleh worked as an attorney for the Ohio Department of Education, investigating criminal and professional misconduct allegations affecting Ohio educators. She has worked in the private sector, having practiced labor and employment law and domestic relations law at Mowery Youell & Galeano, as well as at the family law firm of Grossman Law Offices. Musleh also proudly served as staff attorney for the Honorable Judge Elizabeth Gill at the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas Division of Domestic Relations and Juvenile Branch.
“We are delighted to welcome Suzanne back to DRO, and know that her keen legal mind, strong written and verbal communication abilities, and exceptional organizational skills will serve her well as she assumes her new position,” said Kerstin Sjoberg, DRO executive director. “Suzanne’s extensive legal background includes work in the government, nonprofit, and private sectors, and she is well-versed in civil rights, labor and employment, and education, law, all of which will be invaluable as we go forward.”
Musleh’s long-time passionate legal advocacy for marginalized Ohioans extends beyond DRO. When she is not working, she is often volunteering her time to help raise awareness about disability rights. She has provided education and support through public speaking engagements, identified advocacy opportunities, and has worked alongside various professionals in the field to create more inclusive and accessible environments for individuals with disabilities within her local community.
Musleh earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Michigan in 2003, and her Juris Doctor degree from The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law in 2007.