Neal F. Zimmers Jr., 1964
B.A., Denison University
J.D., George Washington University
Senator
Ohio Senate
Citation awarded May, 1990
Following graduation from law school, Neal Zimmers Jr. entered the practice of law in his hometown of Dayton. At the age of 26, he was elected Montgomery County court judge, thus becoming the youngest judge in the history of the state of Ohio.
In 1974, he was elected to the Ohio Senate from the Fifth District where he continues to serve. He has held the post of president pro tempore and of assistant minority leader.
He spearheaded legislation that became know as the Zimmers Plan, which was a response to the gap in tuition between public and private colleges. At the time of its passage, Senator Zimmers said “This is a responsible action on the part of the state government and shows Ohio’s commitment to the dual system of public and private education that is such a fundamental concept in our country.”
He has won national recognition for his work on behalf of women single heads of households and migrant workers, and authored studies on both subjects which have served as models for other states.
Senator Zimmers has received several honors and awards, including: Ohio’s Outstanding Young Man award from the Ohio Junior Chamber of Commerce in 1974; Outstanding Service award to the Hispanic Community of Ohio; Outstanding Legislator of the Year from the League of Ohio Sportsmen and National Wildlife Association; and recognition by the American Academy of Pediatrics for his efforts in child safety. The Ohio University recently presented him its Phillips Medal for Outstanding Public Service.
