Meet the Staff

Ragan Snead, MLIS, MBA - Executive Director

Oversees the daily operations and strategic vision of NEO-RLS by working with the Board of Trustees, the staff, and the Fiscal Officer to develop high-quality, relevant, and cost-effective membership benefits and services
Develops and maintains relationships with the region’s multi-type libraries, the State Library of Ohio, the other state regionals, and organizations such as ALAO, OELMA, NOTSL, and SLA to provide collaborative opportunities and support the libraries of the region
Facilitates Strategic Planning, one-on-one management coaching, and Board Development for libraries and is available for consulting on projects ranging from the preparation of annual reports to grant review, space planning, staff assessment, and process evaluation
Creates and presents continuing education workshops and webinars

Contact Ragan:
440-384-0522
ragan.snead@neo-rls.org

Melissa Lattanzi - Continuing Education Coordinator

Develops NEO-RLS continuing education programs and plans training events that empower and energize library staff, giving them the expertise and vision necessary to make impacts at all levels and in all aspects of library service
Creates exceptional staff days that are responsive to the needs of our member libraries
Customizes trainings for member libraries in order to ensure that their most pressing staff development needs are met with an attitude of collaboration, innovation, and expert insight
Helps libraries plan and implement strategies for long-term institutional success

Contact Melissa:
440-384-0868
lattanzm@neo-rls.org

Mary Ellen Powers - Fiscal Officer

Plans, directs, implements, and evaluates all financial operational activities of NEO-RLS to ensure sound fiscal controls.
Manages financial systems, including purchase orders, invoice verification, accounts payable/receivable, and check processing.
Generates letters of intent, invoices for membership fees and purchases, and tracks payments and vouchers.
Works with the Executive Director to prepare the budget based on organizational goals and programs.

Contact Mary Ellen:
440-684-0592
mary.powers @neo-rls.org

Jill Grunenwald, MLIS - Marketing and Engagement Coordinator

Develops and manages print and digital marketing materials, social media, and email newsletters to promote NEO-RLS programs and services.
Maintains and updates the website and Membership Management System (MMS) to ensure accuracy, user engagement, and seamless member interactions.
Builds and sustains strategic partnerships with external organizations to expand NEO-RLS’s reach and impact.
Leads and facilitates marketing groups, fostering collaboration and innovation among members.

Contact Jill:
440-668-0757
jill.grunenwald@neo-rls.org

Hillary Brown, MLIS - Programs and Services Associate

Supports the planning and execution of continuing education programs, webinars, and in-person workshops for NEO-RLS members.
Facilitates Network Group meetings and serve as a staff liaison to foster collaboration and professional development.
Maintains relationships with libraries, speakers, and vendors to enhance program quality and engagement.
Develops and analyzes feedback tools to ensure training content remains relevant and effective.

Contact Hillary:
440-384-0634
hillary.brown @neo-rls.org