Sheldon Goodrum brings a unique blend of legal expertise, public service and community engagement to the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. He currently serves as an attorney at Grossman Law Offices, specializing in family law and advocating for his clients in domestic relations and custody disputes. His prioritization of fairness, patience, tact and justice is evident in his client representation and policy advocacy.
Goodrum earned his Bachelor of Arts and Science from The Ohio State University and a Master of Public Administration from Ohio State's John Glenn College of Public Affairs. He later earned his Juris Doctor from Capital University Law School, where he was actively involved in the Black Law Students Association, worked in the legal clinic and competed in moot court.
Goodrum’s public service career began with the Ohio State Highway Patrol, where he served as a trooper for nearly seven years. As a state trooper, he applied critical sections of the Ohio Revised Code to promote public safety and enforce state law. Later, as a public relations officer in Dayton and Cincinnati, Goodrum managed media relations, organized press conferences and facilitated community outreach, establishing his reputation for communication excellence.
In addition to his law enforcement background, Goodrum has a distinguished military career. He has served in both the Army and Air Force, holding positions such as company commander, flight commander and emergency management liaison officer. Currently a captain in the Air National Guard, he plays an active role in local and statewide relief efforts, including natural disaster response.
Goodrum’s professional background also includes a pivotal role with the Columbus Department of Development. Here, he worked across five divisions, collaborating with nonprofits, leading community initiatives and fostering housing and economic growth through programs aimed at building stronger neighborhoods. His work in community organizing continues today through his involvement with the South Side Thrive Collaborative, where he serves as an executive board member. In this capacity, Goodrum helps drive initiatives that address economic hardship and expand access to critical resources for underserved populations on the South Side of Columbus.
In addition to his legal and public service roles, Goodrum is a published author. He contributes to the Columbus Bar Association’s Lawyers Quarterly, addressing legal issues and social justice topics. His interest in cultural sensitivity and developing racial and ethnic identity drives his professional and community work.
Outside of work, Goodrum enjoys reading, volunteering and staying active in his community. An avid runner and FAA-certified private pilot, he delights in exploring the scenic landscapes of the Midwest from both the ground and the air with his family. His multifaceted experiences as a lawyer, public servant and military leader make him a dedicated advocate for individuals and the larger community. He always strives to bring a more profound sense of justice, understanding and progress to those he serves.
This commentary is intended as an addendum and recent update to the original research article published in World Affairs, “The High Representative in Bosnia-Herzegovina: The Unusual Institutional Arrangement of a Non-Authoritarian, yet Controlled, Democracy”