OUR TEAM
John Polzar
John Polzar brings over 25 years of public affairs and policy experience in Kansas state government to Summit Strategies Group. As a former Director of Government Affairs for two Kansas Governors, Deputy Secretary of a Cabinet-level agency and Chief of Staff to the Minority Leader of the Kansas House of Representatives, John possesses a sound knowledge of Kansas public policy and the legislative process. John’s extensive experience in government relations and public policy development provides our clients a clear advantage to ensuring their needs are met by Kansas state government. He provides a unique strategic and tactical acumen that has represented our clients well. John is a graduate of the University of Kansas and helped co-found Summit Strategies Group. He resides in Topeka.
Jennifer Crow
Jennifer Crow has worked in Kansas politics for over twenty years and grew up in a family of elected officials actively involved in politics. Born and raised in Kansas, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Drake University and her law degree from Washburn Law School. In 2003, Governor Kathleen Sebelius called upon Jennifer to serve as her Legislative Liaison and personal aide. In 2007, Jennifer established the Coalition for School Readiness, a partnership of early childhood and business leaders dedicated to expansion of early childhood programs in the state. Jennifer subsequently established her own lobbying practice and helped to co-found Summit Strategies Group in 2011. Jennifer’s broad experience executing government affairs strategies ensures that there is a nexus between our clients and the government officials they need to influence. Jennifer resides in Kansas City.
Troy Findley
Troy Findley brings three decades of experience in Kansas government and politics to the firm. As a former Lieutenant Governor, state legislator and Chief of Staff for two Kansas Governors, Troy knows and understands Kansas and its state government. A native Kansan, Troy was elected five times to the Kansas House of Representatives serving from 1995-2003. In 2003, Troy became Legislative Liaison for Governor Kathleen Sebelius and became her Chief of Staff in 2005. Troy continued as Chief of Staff for Governor Mark Parkinson. Governor Parkinson appointed Troy to the post of Lieutenant Governor in May 2009, and he served in that role until January 2011. Troy’s vast experience and background allows him to provide our clients with exceptional, comprehensive, results-oriented government relations service. Troy has been a Principal with Summit Strategies Group since 2011.
Kerry Gooch
Kerry Gooch joined Summit Strategies Group as a partner in 2021 and is now a Principal. He has worked in various positions in Kansas politics over the last ten years. Kerry spent four years working for the Kansas Democratic Party; he was first hired to work as the Party-Political Director and later promoted to Executive Director. After leaving the State Democratic Party, Kerry managed a top tier Kansas Congressional campaign. Kerry also has direct experience working in the Kansas Legislature. He spent two years working as the Chief of Staff for the Senate Minority leader. Kerry is a lifelong Kansas born and raised in Wichita and now lives in Lawrence.
Norine Spears
Norine Spears joined the Summit team in 2022, and became a Principal in 2024. She comes to Summit Strategies from the non-profit world, where she helped create and grow an international membership organization. She has experience developing, maintaining, and supporting organizational boards and committees. Before joining the non-profit world she helped small startup companies develop strategic marketing plans and advised them in areas of project management and process. Norine has also led grassroots advocacy organizations in her community, working with local government officials and stakeholders on issues affecting health outcomes such as education, voting, and the environment. Her diverse background ensures that client solutions are addressed through a broad lens.