Jon Fishpaw, MPA

Jon Fishpaw, MPA

Leading with Purpose: Meet Jon

Jon Fishpaw serves as the Chief Advocacy and Government Relations Officer at Bon Secours Mercy Health. He leads the ministry’s efforts to advance public policy initiatives and strengthen relationships with government and industry leaders. Since joining the health system in 2004, he has played a pivotal role in shaping policy strategies, legislative priorities and advocacy efforts to improve health care access and community well-being. 

With more than 30 years of experience spanning both the public and private sectors, Jon specializes in translating complex government and social issues into actionable community solutions. He and his team work to align policy goals with the needs of patients, caregivers and communities — engaging with local, state and federal officials as well as regional, state and national business and trade associations. 

Jon is actively involved in external affairs leadership roles, serving with organizations such as the American Hospital Association, Catholic Health Association, American Medical Group Association, Premier, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 

Before joining Bon Secours Mercy Health, Jon was the first full-time director of government relations for OhioHealth and previously served as a regional representative for the State of Ohio. His background also includes active-duty military service as a public affairs correspondent at the Marine Corps Combat Development Command in Quantico, Virginia. 

Vision & Passion 

It is a privilege and honor to advocate on behalf of the ministry for the people we serve by advancing public policy goals that enrich the lives of our patients, families and caregivers throughout all our communities. 

LinkedIn Profile  

Education & Training  

  • Master of Public Administration — Ohio University 
  • Bachelor of Arts in Journalism — The Ohio State University 

Career Achievements 

  • Leads government relations and advocacy strategy for Bon Secours Mercy Health 
  • Chair of BSMH Advocacy and Government Relations Committee 
  • Co-Chair of BSMH Government Reimbursement Council 
  • Serves in external affairs leadership roles with the American Hospital Association, Catholic Health Association, American Medical Group Association, Premier, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce 
  • Recipient of Premier’s James L. Scott Excellence in Advocacy Award 
  • Member of the Ohio Child Fatality Review Board 
  • Former board member of the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome, Brain Injury Association of Ohio, and Ohio Children’s Trust Fund 
  • Former first full-time director of government relations for OhioHealth 
  • Former regional representative for the State of Ohio 
  • Active-duty Marine Corps veteran and public affairs correspondent at the Marine Corps Combat Development Command in Quantico, Virginia