Karen DeSanto Kellogg

Professional career

• Judge Kellogg is registered as a Republican and is running for re-election in the 2026 Ohio General Election for the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas Probate and Juvenile Divisions.
• Elected by Ashland County voters in 2020 to serve as the Juvenile and Probate Judge of the Ashland County Court of Common Pleas, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Damien Vercillo
• Judge Kellogg emphasizes dignity, respect, honesty, integrity, fairness, and teamwork in her court interactions
• Since taking office, Judge Kellogg has worked to integrate trauma-informed care principles into the Juvenile Court system, ensuring safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and responsiveness for youth and families interacting with the court

Education

Additional information

• She earned her Juris Doctorate from Cleveland–Marshall College of Law in 2000 and was admitted to the Ohio bar the same year Before her election, Judge Kellogg practiced law privately in Ashland County
• focusing on family law matters, and previously held the role of an Assistant Prosecutor in Ashland, Richland, and Morrow Counties.
• She is a lifelong resident of Ashland County and attended Ashland High School.
• Her campaign has received endorsements from local leaders, including sheriffs and mayors, reflecting strong community support
• She has also held leadership roles in community organizations, including Chair of the Appleseed Community Mental Health Board and Secretary of the Ashland Parenting Plus Board