Thank-you!

On May 27, 2026, Governor Mike DeWine granted clemency to Robert Ruark.

This is a significant milestone, and we want to take a moment to thank every person who helped make it possible. We appreciate the time and consideration given to Robert’s application by Governor DeWine and those involved in the clemency review process.

Thank you to everyone who signed letters, shared Robert’s story, attended screenings, volunteered their time, offered advice, opened doors, and stood with us throughout this journey. Every conversation, every signature, every act of support mattered.

We are grateful to our Impact Campaign Assistants. At the beginning of their careers, they committed themselves to this work with passion, professionalism, and determination. We hope this experience reminds them that they truly can make a difference and help create a more equitable world.

Thank you to the libraries and community organizations that hosted screenings of My Name is Robert Ruark, and to the many agencies, professionals, advocates, and supporters who contributed their knowledge, expertise, and encouragement along the way.
Thank you to our web developer for making Robert’s story accessible to the public, and to everyone who participated in interviews and shared their personal and professional perspectives.

We also want to acknowledge the incredible crew in both the United States and Australia who dedicated countless hours to carefully and compassionately telling Robert’s story. Their commitment, talent, and belief in this project helped bring a voice to a story that had gone unheard for far too long.

Most importantly, thank you to every person who believed Robert deserved to be seen, heard, and given a second chance. Your support has sustained us through the difficult moments and reminded us that compassion, fairness, and hope still matter.

While clemency is an enormous step forward, our work is not yet complete. This decision opens the door to the next stage of Robert’s journey and gives him the opportunity to appear before the Ohio Parole Board next year—approximately 13 years earlier than previously anticipated. We remain committed to supporting Robert until he is finally home.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of this story and for standing with Robert. We believe that without the overwhelming support of our community, this outcome would not have been possible.