A Legacy of Leadership, Service, and Community  

Kathy and Fred Ransier have dedicated their lives to strengthening the Columbus community through law, leadership, and service. As trailblazing attorneys and lifelong civic leaders, their impact spans decades—shaping institutions, expanding opportunity, and uplifting countless individuals and families across Central Ohio.

Together, they built not only successful legal careers, but a shared commitment to community, equity, and public service that continues to inspire.

Pioneers in Law and Opportunity

Kathy and Fred met as students at The Ohio State University Moritz College of Law and began a partnership that would shape both their personal and professional lives. In 1976, they founded their own firm, Ransier & Ransier, at a time when opportunities in the legal profession were limited for women and African Americans. 

For more than 26 years, their practice provided trusted legal services to individuals and businesses, while also building a reputation rooted in integrity, excellence, and care for their clients.

Later, both joined Vorys, Sater, Seymour and Pease LLP, where they continued their distinguished careers until retirement.

Kathy Ransier: A Career of Excellence and Impact

Kathy Ransier’s legal career spans nearly four decades, with expertise in corporate, real estate, nonprofit, and business development law. Beyond her practice, she has been a respected leader, educator, and mentor. She has:

• Served as special counsel to the Ohio Attorney General and Franklin County Probate Court
• Presented widely on business ethics, legal practice, and professional development
• Lectured at The Ohio State University and led community-based training programs

Kathy’s leadership extends deeply into the community. She has served on numerous
boards and commissions, including:

• Huntington Bancshares Incorporated
• Columbus Regional Airport Authority (former Chair)
• Greater Columbus Arts Council (former Chair)
• Women’s Fund of Central Ohio (former Chair)

Her many honors reflect a lifetime of achievement, including the YWCA Women of
Achievement Award, Columbus Bar Association Professionalism Award, and the
NAACP Legal Defense Fund’s Constance Baker Motley Award.

Fred Ransier: Public Service and Community Leadership

Fred Ransier’s career has been defined by leadership in both law and public service. A former Columbus City Council member, he has dedicated decades to advancing civic institutions and community development. His extensive service includes leadership roles with: 

• The Ohio State University Medical Center University Hospital East
• Partners Achieving Community Transformation (PACT), where he served as Chair
• Legal Aid Society of Columbus
• United Way of Central Ohio
• Franklin Park Conservatory and Experience Columbus

Fred’s contributions have been recognized with The Ohio State University Distinguished Service Award, honoring his lasting impact on the university and the broader community.

Ransiers’ story is rootedin purpose and family

Kathy and Fred raised three sons—Brad, Rick, and Charles—and built a home grounded in love, resilience, and togetherness. Their late son Charles, who lived with developmental disabilities, remains a profound source of inspiration in their lives. 

Charles’ life shaped the family’s perspective on community, compassion, and the importance of creating opportunities for all people to thrive. That experience led the Ransiers to deepen their commitment to giving back.

Philanthropy and Giving Back

In 2020, the Ransier family established the Ransier Family Fund at The Columbus Foundation to support organizations that reflect their values and honor Charles’ legacy. Through their philanthropy, they have supported a wide range of organizations across Central Ohio, including those focused on:

• Arts and culture
• Education
• Youth development
• Food access and community well-being

Their generosity reflects a lifelong belief in investing in people, strengthening
community, and creating lasting impact.

A Life of Service, A Lasting Impact

Throughout their lives, Kathy and Fred Ransier have exemplified what it means to lead with purpose. They have broken barriers, built institutions, mentored future leaders, and given back in ways that continue to shape the Columbus community. Their story is one of partnership, perseverance, and a deep commitment to making a difference.

Celebrating the Ransiers

The League of Women Voters of Metropolitan Columbus is proud to honor Kathy and Fred Ransier at Democracy In Action 2026 for their extraordinary contributions to law, civic life, and community leadership.

Their legacy reminds us that meaningful change is built over time—through dedication, service, and a belief in the power of community.