Ohio State is in the process of revising websites and program materials to accurately reflect compliance with the law. While this work occurs, language referencing protected class status or other activities prohibited by Ohio Senate Bill 1 may still appear in some places. However, all programs and activities are being administered in compliance with federal and state law.

Brandon J. Lester

Senior Associate General Counsel
Associate Secretary for the Board of Trustees
Portrait of Brandon Lester

Brandon advises and counsels the University on a wide range of faculty matters as well as issues facing the Office of Academic Affairs and other litigation and labor and employment issues.  Prior to joining Ohio State, Brandon practiced labor and employment law in the Pittsburgh office of Jones Day, where he represented employers in individual and class litigation over discrimination, wage and hour, whistleblower, and other issues; handled labor arbitrations; and counseled clients on labor and regulatory issues.  He previously served as the Simon Karas Fellow/Deputy Solicitor in the Appeals Section of the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, where he briefed and argued civil and criminal matters before the United States Supreme Court and the Supreme Court of Ohio.  He also worked as a law clerk for the Honorable Chief Justice Thomas Moyer of the Supreme Court of Ohio.  Brandon graduated from The Ohio State University’s Moritz College of Law in 2005 and completed a Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution.  In 2010, he was honored with the Moritz College of Law’s Outstanding Recent Alumnus Award for his service work to the community and the University.

  • Bar Admissions: Ohio
  • Education:
    • The Ohio State University, Michael E. Moritz College of Law J.D. with honors
    • West Virginia University B.A. summa cum laude
  • Assistant: Ally Hennelly
  • Work Location: Main Office
  • Fax: 614-292-8699