The Speakers

Joel Potts serves as the Chief Government and External Affairs Officer of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth (DCY), bringing decades of experience in public policy, human services innovation, and strategic systems reform. Known for his collaborative leadership style and forward-thinking approach, Joel has been instrumental in aligning statewide services that support children and families across Ohio.

Before joining DCY, Joel served as the Executive Director of the Ohio Job and Family Services Directors' Association, where he championed efforts to modernize public assistance programs and strengthen local agency operations. His work helped improve service delivery across all 88 counties, positioning Ohio as a national leader in integrated family support systems.

At DCY, Joel oversees initiatives that span Early Childhood Education, Child Welfare, Youth Services, and Family Stability, with a focus on outcomes, accountability, and equity. His leadership continues to drive efforts to break down silos and create streamlined, family-centered pathways to opportunity.

With deep roots in Ohio and a lifelong commitment to public service, Joel Potts is passionate about making government work better for people, especially the youngest and most vulnerable members of our communities.

Kristen Fox Berki serves as the Executive Director of Lorain County Children Services, where she leads a dedicated team working to protect children, support families, and promote safe, stable, and nurturing environments for every child in Lorain County. With more than 20 years of experience in the child welfare field, Kristen brings a unique blend of frontline knowledge and executive leadership to the agency.

Under her guidance, LCCS has expanded its efforts in family preservation, kinship care, and trauma-informed practices, while building stronger collaborations with community partners, courts, and local schools. Kristen has been instrumental in modernizing agency operations, prioritizing staff wellness, and advocating for policy changes that better serve vulnerable youth and caregivers.

A firm believer in transparency, accountability, and prevention, Kristen is not only an administrator but also a passionate advocate for children’s rights and family empowerment. Her leadership continues to strengthen the agency’s impact and visibility across the region, ensuring that the voices of children and families remain at the heart of every decision made.