News

Makiah Harper, an Associate attorney with Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter, has joined the Board of Directors of Open Door Columbus, an organization dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fulfilling, self-directed lives. Makiah succeeds fellow Kegler Brown attorney Dave McCarty, whose service helped strengthen the firm's longstanding connection to the organization.

A member of the firm's Corporate practice, Makiah advises businesses on mergers and acquisitions, growth strategies, corporate governance matters, and other complex transactions. She also serves as chair of the firm's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee and is actively involved in community and nonprofit leadership initiatives.

Founded to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Open Door provides person-centered services that promote independence, community engagement, and personal growth. The organization remains committed to empowering individuals, strengthening inclusion, and ensuring access to opportunities that foster dignity, choice, and belonging.

“Open Door’s mission to not only provide day-to-day assistance to individuals with developmental disabilities but also to ensure that these individuals are able to live fully, with lives enriched by the arts and an open community, is one I greatly believe in,” said Makiah. “I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the Board of Open Door, as they represent a large provider in the Franklin County area that graciously works in the background to ensure all people are able to live their lives to the fullest.”

"Community leadership has long been an important part of our firm's culture, and Makiah's appointment continues that tradition,” said Kegler Brown Managing Director Steve Barsotti. “Her dedication to service, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to expanding opportunities for others make her an excellent addition to the Open Door board."

Makiah’s appointment reflects Kegler Brown's longstanding commitment to community engagement and service through leadership roles with organizations that strengthen opportunities for individuals and families throughout Central Ohio. As Open Door continues its work to foster dignity, choice, belonging, and community inclusion, the firm looks forward to contributing leadership and perspective in support of the organization's mission and the individuals it serves.