Bryn Coby, a Case Aide Specialist at Northwoods, has been named one of the Top 100 Influencers in Local Government for 2025 by Engaging Local Government Leaders (ELGL), a recognition that underscores the vital behind-the-scenes work supporting child welfare systems.
Currently supporting nine child welfare agencies across Ohio, with plans to expand to twelve, Coby leads a team of generalists who provide essential administrative support. Her work enables caseworkers to dedicate more time directly to families, potentially improving outcomes for children in the state's child welfare system.
Ryan Sherry, Director of Case Aide Services at Northwoods, praised Coby's exceptional commitment, noting her consistent efforts to support county caseworkers and the families they serve. Dave Minning, the company's President and CEO, emphasized that her recognition reflects not just individual achievement, but also the organization's broader commitment to innovation and public service.
Coby herself acknowledged the collaborative nature of her work, stating that the award belongs to all child welfare workers in Ohio who dedicate themselves to child protection. Her approach highlights the often-unseen contributions of administrative professionals in public service who enable frontline workers to focus on direct care.
The ELGL recognition represents more than a personal achievement; it signals the increasing importance of administrative support in complex social service systems. By streamlining processes and reducing bureaucratic burdens, professionals like Coby play a critical role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of child welfare services.
This honor also draws attention to the challenging and essential work of child welfare agencies, which navigate complex family dynamics and work to protect vulnerable children. Coby's leadership demonstrates how strategic administrative support can significantly impact social service delivery.
