One of Northern Kentucky's most active community leaders is leaving his law firm for an executive position. A.J. Schaeffer will become principal of Union-based Drug Enhancement Co. of America (DECA) July 31, according to a news release from Greenebaum, Doll & McDonald PLLC.

Schaeffer has been a member of the Covington-based law firm since graduating from the University of Kentucky College of Law in 1999. Among his civic activities, he serves as co-chairman of Northern Kentucky's Vision 2015 community planning process.

DECA, a client of Greenebaum, develops health care technologies for treatment of various diseases and disorders. It was founded by Roger Griggs, an entrepreneur who has started several Northern Kentucky-based firms, including Richwood Pharmaceuticals and Xanodyne Pharmaceuticals.

Jeffrey McKenzie, chairman and CEO of Greenebaum, said that although the firm is saddened by Schaeffer's departure, "his extensive participation in the community, coupled with his enthusiasm for serving his clients, is a combination which emulates the Greenebaum culture."

A Business Courier Forty Under 40 winner, Schaeffer is past president of Legacy, a Northern Kentucky civic group for young professionals, and is a frequent public speaker.

Greenebaum, Doll & McDonald operates offices in Covington; Cincinnati; Frankfort; Lexington; Louisville; Washington, D.C.; and Nashville, Tenn.