Meredith Lawson-Rowe

Meredith Lawson-Rowe is a Democratic member of the Ohio House of Representatives representing the 5th House District. She was first elected unopposed in 2024 and is serving her first term. The district includes parts of Reynoldsburg, Canal Winchester, Columbus, Groveport, Obetz, Madison Township, and Hamilton Township.

Lawson-Rowe is the fourth of six generations of Ohioans and an active Reynoldsburg resident. She has been married to Rondal Rowe, Jr. for 32 years and is the proud parent of three children and four grandchildren.

Education

Lawson-Rowe attended Clark Atlanta University, where she became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She has maintained her involvement with the sorority through the Columbus Alumnae Chapter.

Political Experience

Before her election to the state legislature, Lawson-Rowe built an extensive career in community engagement and public service. In 2019, she made history as one of the first Black women elected to Reynoldsburg City Council, representing Ward 4. She was subsequently elected Council President in 2023.

During her tenure on City Council, Lawson-Rowe participated in updating the city's zoning code, passed legislation to improve fair housing, and declared racism a public health crisis. At the state level, she has worked on legislative initiatives including the unanimous passage of Senate Bill 18.

Lawson-Rowe also serves on multiple boards, including the Reynoldsburg YMCA and Community Center, Mid-Ohio Market at HEART, and the Empower our Youth Foundation.