Welcome to Ohio Valley Environmental Advocates!
About Us
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
With accurate and accessible information, strategic action and truthful communications, we work for a better economy and improved public health by advancing human rights and environmental protection and justice initiatives. We advocate to give people living in the region a say in the kinds of industries and businesses they want for their
With accurate and accessible information, strategic action and truthful communications, we work for a better economy and improved public health by advancing human rights and environmental protection and justice initiatives. We advocate to give people living in the region a say in the kinds of industries and businesses they want for their communities for long-term economic prosperity through protected natural resources, individual and community empowerment and public health and policy improvements.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Mission
To empower individuals and communities in the mid-Ohio Valley to create a healthy and sustainable environment and economy with justice and equity for all.
Our Motto
Our Mission
Our Motto
"Protecting the environment and public health while advancing equity and a better economic future."
Meet the Team
Frank Rocchio
OVEA Founder, Research Analyst and Community Advocacy Coordinator
Frank, a proud resident of Follansbee, West Virginia in Brooke County, is deeply connected to his community's rich industrial history. In the late 19th century, the city was a hub for the iron and steel industry. In 2022, the Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel coke plant was shut down after a century of operation, leaving the community to breathe the cleanest air in a lifetime.
However, Frank found himself at the forefront of a new challenge in December 2022 when a proposed medical waste facility aimed to establish itself on a brownfield site from the previous industrial era. Frank rallied alongside his neighbors to ensure the health and well-being of their families were protected.
Frank recognizes that Follansbee and other designated fossil fuel industrial zones along the Ohio River on both the West Virginia and Ohio sides are in need of revitalization. To achieve positive environmental change and promote health, economy, and equity for all, Frank believes it is crucial to unify the community's voice and engage with government leaders at the federal, state, and local levels.
Leatra Harper
Co-Founder of OVEA, Managing Director of OVEA's sister organization Freshwater Accountability Project
Leatra Harper received her graduate degree in Organization Development from Bowling Green State University and her undergraduate degree in Human Resources Management from the University of Toledo. Harper is a certified Success Unlimited Network life coach and author of Energetic Coaching; Being and Doing with Spirit. Harper has worked as adjunct faculty teaching business classes and has a corporate background as project manager for large government contracts. She has been a long-time environmental and child advocate and is currently the Managing Director for a statewide nonprofit called FreshWater Accountability Project, dedicated to protecting and preserving Ohio’s fresh air and water for future generations in the face of fracking, the planned petrochemical buildout on the Ohio River, and climate change.
Elizabeth Griffith
Social Media and Communications Specialist
Elizabeth recently joined the OVEA team. She spends her time researching current environmental issues and provides important information to social media for the public. Griffith hopes that the Ohio Valley takes the necessary steps toward a greener and more sustainable lifestyle so that the beauty of her hometown, state, and surrounding states is restored and upheld. Griffith also aspires to continue her work and career in the nonprofit field, working alongside other environmental advocates. She is from Wheeling, WV, has two cats, and enjoys spending time in nature in the warmer months with her friends and family.