COGEL Re-Connect
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COGEL Re-Connect

COGEL Connect events are FREE for all COGEL members. To secure your spot, please sign in before completing your registration.

 Export to Your Calendar 1/28/2026
When: Wednesday, January 28, 2026
3:00 - 4:00 pm EST | 12:00 - 1:00 pm PST
Where: Zoom
United States
Contact: aellison@cogel.org
(916) 329-1890


Online registration is available until: 1/28/2026
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Reconnect After the 2025 Annual Conference

You’re invited to a special Zoom meeting to reconnect after the inspiring experiences of the 2025 COGEL Annual Conference. From Atlanta to Denver, we will reflect on key takeaways from 2025 and build excitement for what’s ahead in 2026.

The event will begin with a warm welcome from the COGEL President, Mark Wasielewski, and the 2026 Program Committee Co-Chairs, Susan Willeke and Paul Solis. After the welcome, join breakout sessions to engage with fellow members, share insights, and strengthen the collaborative spirit that defines our community. We look forward to seeing you there—and don’t forget to invite colleagues from your organization, especially those who are new or were unable to attend the conference!

Note: We encourage cameras-on for this collaborative session. This event kicks off our annual COGEL Connect programming and will include a preview of future sessions.

Speakers & Facilitators

Susan Willeke

Education & Communications, Manager Ohio Ethics Commission

Susan Willeke is an accomplished government-relations professional with more than 30 years’ experience in public affairs, communication, and public speaking.  Susan joined the Ohio Ethics Commission in 2005 as the Education and Communications Manager.  In that position, Susan presents approximately 200 speeches annually, develops information strategies regarding agency programs and represents the Ethics Commission to Ohio citizens, the media, and the Ohio legislature. Prior to joining the Commission, Susan served in the communications office at the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency and as a legislative aide in the Ohio House of Representatives.

Paul Solis

Chief Ethics Officer, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro)

Paul Solis is the Chief Ethics Officer at the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (LA Metro). At LA Metro, he oversees an ethics and compliance program covering thousands of employees, contractors, and a Board of elected officials, including the Mayor of Los Angeles and the LA County Board of Supervisors. LA Metro currently has the largest public works agenda in North America to fulfill many voter mandated infrastructure projects and to prepare for the 2028 Olympics. Paul was formerly the Deputy Chief Counsel at the Office of Congressional Ethics in the U.S. House of Representatives.