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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.

Donnie Naiman, JD

Associate General Counsel

Donnie joined the Office of Legal Affairs in 2026. He works with University stakeholders to navigate and resolve issues centering on charitable giving, tax, and tax-exempt organizations. Donnie’s responsibilities focus on Advancement matters, such as gift and grant agreements, charitable solicitation and gift processing, donor restrictions, and related trust and estate issues. 

Before joining Ohio State, Donnie was a senior associate at Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP’s Cincinnati office where his practice included tax-exempt organizations, charitable solicitation compliance, charitable giving, estate planning, and related business transactions. Donnie also served in the United States Air Force for eight years, attaining the rank of Captain and deploying to Afghanistan and Kuwait.
 

Professional Affiliations:
Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP)
The American College of Financial Services Board Member, 
Greater Cincinnati Planned Giving Council
TEGE Exempt Organizations Council
Ohio Bar Association
Kentucky Bar Association
Past Chair, Estate Planning & Probate Practice Group, Cincinnati Bar Association

Education: 
J.D., The Ohio State University, Michael E. Moritz College of Law, cum laude
M.B.A., Webster University
B.S., United States Air Force Academy, Legal Studies

Administrative Support: 
Maggie Smith