Interim Hancock court leader named

FINDLAY — Mindi L. Wells has been named interim director of court services for Hancock County Common Pleas Court. Wells, appointed by Judge Jonathan P. Starn and Judge Phillip A. Riegle, succeeds longtime Director Kimberly Switzer, who died earlier this month. Wells will oversee the court's administrative functions and work closely with the judges and with Interim Chief Probation Officer Patrick Brzozka. A search to permanently fill the position will begin later this year, the judges said. During the interim period, Wells will focus on three priorities: • Ensuring operational continuity and a smooth leadership transition; • Supporting staff and stakeholders through clear communication and a visible, engaged presence; • Collaborating with the judges to prepare the organization — and its next director — for long-term success through thoughtful hiring, onboarding and training initiatives. Wells is a licensed attorney and has over 25 years of leadership experience across the legal, judicial and higher education sectors. She has the Certified Court Manager credential from the National Center for State Courts and previously served as deputy administrative director and chief operating officer for the Ohio Supreme Court. During her tenure, she also was appointed interim administrative director and interim director of human resources. "Mindi brings both the operational experience and the people-centered leadership our court needs during this time," Judge Starn said. "Her guidance will be critical in honoring Kim Switzer's legacy and positioning our team for the future." Wells earned both her law degree and a bachelor's degree in economics with distinction from Ohio Northern University. She completed course work toward a doctoral degree in higher education administration at Bowling Green State University, focusing on ethics in leadership.