Our Team
PRINCIPAL
Lenette Forry-Menard
Lenette Forry Menard is a seasoned advocate with a remarkable career spanning over three decades. Since 1988, she has been a dedicated representative of business and trade associations, bringing her extensive experience in government relations and advocacy to the forefront. Her journey in this field has taken her through various roles, including serving as an attorney, a member of government-relations staffs, and as a contract lobbyist.
During her tenure with the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce from 1995 to 1999, Ms. Menard exhibited exceptional leadership. She not only created but also staffed five legislative subcommittees, each tasked with evaluating legislation in critical areas such as health care, labor, the environment, tax issues, and banking and finance. Additionally, she lent her expertise to two municipal subcommittees in Pawtucket and Woonsocket, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life and business environment in these communities.
In 1999, Ms. Menard took on the role of state director for the Rhode Island Petroleum Association, a subset of the American Petroleum Institute. This association represented major oil companies and operated out of Washington D.C., further broadening her experience and influence in the advocacy landscape.
In the year 2000, Lenette Forry Menard established her own lobbying firm and joined forces with Martiesian & Associates. Her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the field led her to rebrand her firm in October 2022, giving rise to Champion Advocacy Associates, a name synonymous with excellence and commitment in the world of legislative lobbying.
Ms. Menard earned her law degree Cum Laude from Roger Williams University School of Law and currently practices law in the State of Rhode Island. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government Administration with a minor in Economics, achieved at Shippensburg University in Pennsylvania.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lenette shares her life with her husband, Rene Menard, residing in North Smithfield, Rhode Island. Her passion for advocacy and her commitment to her community continue to drive her forward, making her a respected and influential figure in the world of legislative lobbying.
Rene Menard
Rene's journey in public service began in 1988 when he was elected to the Rhode Island House of Representatives. Over the course of 24 years, he dutifully represented the constituents of Lincoln and Cumberland. During his tenure, he had the honor of serving as the Rhode Island House of Representatives Deputy Majority Whip from 1999 to 2002 and as Majority Whip from 2002 to 2004. Prior to his entry into state politics, Rene also contributed his leadership skills as a member of the Lincoln Town Council.
Rene's extensive personal and professional background equips him with a profound understanding of the challenges that officials in public office face. He currently operates as an independent contractor for Champion Advocacy Associates, where he lends his expertise to tackle specific issues and offers political consulting services as needed. With over 35 years of hands-on experience in political campaigns, he is highly sought after as an advisor to candidates in each election cycle.
Beyond his political endeavors, Rene devoted over 28 years to serving the community as a dedicated firefighter for the City of Woonsocket. He holds an Associates Degree in Fire Science from the Community College of Rhode Island and proudly carries the designation of an Eagle Scout.