Distinguished politician and legal expert to lecture at Cleveland-Marshall College of Law

The Honorable William G. Batchelder, former speaker of the Ohio House of Representatives and the second longest-serving representative in the Ohio House, has been appointed executive in residence at Cleveland State University’s Cleveland-Marshall College of Law.

“It will be my honor to return to the faculty of Cleveland State University,” Batchelder said.
In addition to a wealth of political acumen, Batchelder brings a deep background in practicing and teaching law to CSU, where his new position is effective mid-January 2015. He will lecture on the application of law matters related to legislative, political and statutory environments.
“William Batchelder’s extensive experience in government and the practice of law at many levels will provide invaluable resources for our students,” said CSU President Ronald M. Berkman. “On behalf of the entire Cleveland State University community, I am very pleased to welcome him to CSU.”

Batchelder, who was not eligible for re-election because of Ohio’s term limits, ended his fourth consecutive Ohio House term this month. He represented the 69th House District, which includes portions of Medina County. He previously served in the Ohio House for 30 years.

His law career includes more than three decades at the Williams and Batchelder law firm in Medina. Speaker Batchelder also has served as a judge for the Medina County Common Pleas Court and the Ninth District Court of Appeals.

During his tenure in the Ohio House, Batchelder was recognized numerous times with the Watchdog of the Treasury Award. He also received the 4-H Meritorious Service Award and the Friends of 4-H Award. The Ohio State Volunteer Firefighters Association recognized his service to Ohio Firefighters throughout his career. For outstanding contributions to the wise use and management of the nation’s natural resources, Batchelder received the Conservation Legislators Award from the League of Ohio Sportsmen and the National Wildlife Federation.

He also has served as an adjunct professor at CSU’s Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs and at the University of Akron School of Law.

Batchelder received a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1964 and a juris doctorate from The Ohio State University College of Law in 1967. He resides in Medina with his wife, Alice. They have two children and five grandchildren.