I began my career
on the road with a
television crew,
covering the 2004 presidential campaign from the perspective of the people who worked on it.
That experience — seeing the mechanics of democracy up close, through the eyes of organizers, volunteers, and staff — me on the human side of politics. From there, I moved into the world of diplomacy, campaigns, and policy, starting at the UN Foundation, working on two U.S. presidential campaigns, and managing sustainability initiatives for the D.C. government. In each role, I learned that politics is ultimately about relationships, and that dialogue shapes communities as much as any policy document.
As a scholar,
I draw on my professional experience
to connect research and teaching,
to civic life.
My experience in law, international diplomacy, and campaigns — both presidential and municipal — equips me to bridge disciplines and perspectives. My years in the field making and enacting policy for a community that I love ensure that my work is grounded in real political stakes. Whether I’m mapping ideological networks and linguistic similarities, designing innovative curricula, or teaching students how to be engaged citizens, the through-lines are the same: translating complex systems into understanding and preparing people to participate in democracy.
Professional & Educational
Experience
Professional Experience
Before returning to academia, I worked across government, campaigns, media, and consulting, consistently translating complex issues into clear narratives and actionable strategies.
Senior Consultant
Sustainability & Energy Division, DC Department of General Services
(2013–2019)
Led sustainability initiatives for DC’s 27M square foot building portfolio, including smart buildings, solar PPAs, LED retrofits, and net-zero projects.
Director
The Action (Advocacy Campaign Coordinated with the White House)
(2012–2013)
Directed volunteers in support of White House fiscal negotiations, organizing messaging and grassroots events.
Voter Protection Advocate
Obama for America
(2012)
Supported national Voter Protection Team through legal research, writing, and election integrity protocols.
Consultant
Analysis Research Planning Corporation (ARPC)
(2010–2012)
Developed communication strategies for expert witnesses, authored the Emerging Events Bulletin, and created a media “News Tripwire” for litigation monitoring.
LSAT Instructor
Kaplan Test Prep
(2005–2009)
Top-rated Mid-Atlantic instructor; trained new staff and mentored students.
Researcher/Writer
United Nations Foundation
(2004–2006)
Staffed and supported the Secretary-General’s High-Level Panel for Threats, Challenges and Change, and managed the UNF “Board Book.”
Associate Producer
Camera Planet Productions
(2004)
Covered the 2004 Democratic Primary as part of a two-person field team for the TV series Staffers; produced daily political briefings under tight deadlines.
Education
To complement my broad professional experience, I have built an interdisciplinary educational background that gives me a fresh, informed perspective on a diverse array of subjects.
The Ohio State University – School of Communication
Doctoral Candidate
PhD anticipated May 2026, Political Communication
Advisor: Dr. William “Chip” Eveland | Committee Members TBD
American University – School of International Service
M.A., August 2017
Thesis: “Segregated Washington – Racially Restrictive Covenants in the Nation’s Capital”
Advisor: Dr. Malini Ranganathan
American University – Washington College of Law
J.D., December 2010
University of Washington – Jackson School of International Studies
B.A., June 2003
Awards
Albert Warren Scholarship for Excellence in Teaching
The Ohio State University (April 2025)
Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Fellow
American University, Washington College of Law (2009–10)
Pro-Bono Honors Award of Excellence
American University, Washington College of Law (2009–10)
Moot Court Board
University of San Diego Law School (2008–09)
Presidential Scholarship Award
University of San Diego Law School (2008–09)