My name is Hannah Richards, and I am thrilled to join ACTE as the new Media and Advocacy Coordinator. I’m a recent graduate from American University with a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a specialization in Gender and Race Politics, coupled with a deep passion for advocacy and transparency in government and legislation. As the Media and Advocacy Coordinator, I am eager to support ACTE’s policy goals through social media, website content and advocacy. I look forward to being of service and acquainting myself with the organization and membership I’ll be working for. In this first blog post, I am excited to introduce myself and share a bit of my background.
Having grown up participating in various political campaigns and attending college in Washington, DC, I’ve gained early exposure to the intricate workings of the legislative process. This firsthand experience has fostered a profound appreciation for advocacy, civic engagement and the spread of knowledge, both in political circles as well as everyday communities.
Whilst earning my degree, I interned for Representative Lieu’s office and supported their legislative and communications teams. This involved researching and writing cosponsor recommendations, attending policy briefings, compiling press clips and crafting communications materials on behalf of staff and the congressman. My internship accompanied my degree and allowed me to see firsthand what I had been learning in a classroom. This experience was pivotal in my learning journey and afforded me the opportunity to connect with constituents and congressional staff alike. In addition to many useful and applicable skills, it taught me that everyone needs an advocate.
Upon graduating from American University, I worked as a project assistant for the Government Relations and Communications Team at the National Democratic Institute (NDI). Throughout my time with NDI, I wrote a variety of stories and communications materials for their website, informing donors, government stakeholders and other interested parties on several programs NDI was funding and facilitating. I also edited and assisted others on their stories, working with staff and partners to showcase their programming. Additionally, I supported staff by attending congressional hearings and monitoring relevant committee work.
Utilizing these invaluable experiences, I bring a robust background in various methods of communication and engagement with a wide selection of audiences. Having navigated the inner workings of both government offices and nonprofit organizations, I’ve honed my unique perspective on policy making and the legislative process, acquired through my experiences in both the government and nonprofit sectors, contributing to my inclusive understanding of government affairs, advocacy and policy enactment.
Education is critical to achieving the goals outlined in my degree and my career aspirations – political equity, opportunity and representation. I am both excited and humbled by the opportunity to play my part in helping ACTE advance its policy objectives and support its members. I am eager to contribute my experience and perspective to the organization’s goals, and I look forward to working more closely with the issues at hand.
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