About Us

The Ray Pearson Forum was founded by our namesake Attorney Ray Pearson in the early 70’s. Mr. Pearson is recognized as a person of high character and integrity who has been responsible for helping many good people get into office. Because he was a close friend of former Governor John Connolly, the Governor sought his input on numerous appointments. Mr. Pearson’s goal has always been to help good people get into office. People who understand that with public office comes the enormous responsibility of always doing what is best for the people you were elected to represent. He has always promoted transparency and stated that it is necessary to avoid even the perception of impropriety. 

Joe Oliva is the moderator and producer of the Ray Pearson Forum. He took over the forum in 2003, when he was invited to speak at the forum about his dealing with what he called, 'a very corrupt City Government' “I was asked to get up and speak about my experience at City Hall and I guess I just never sat down” says Joe about taking on the job of lining up future speakers and staying on the cutting edge of what is happening in our community.“I am grateful that Mr. Pearson invited me to the forum and has allowed me to fill in for him for several years. This is and will always be his forum. Both he and his son Robert are wonderful friends and mentors. Once after Mr. Pearson and I had been discussing an unsavory character who helps people get into office only to expect favors in return he stated ‘that is the type of person I am proud to have as an enemy.’”

We would like to extend our appreciation to:

Duke Keith, KLAQ  - Announcer for Forum introductions

The Ray Pearson Forum with Joe Oliva is dedicated to promoting honesty, efficiency, and transparency in government.