Hometown
Brookfield, Wisconsin
Undergraduate education
Bachelor’s of arts in political science, certificate in integrated liberal studies, University of Wisconsin-Madison
La Follette School Accomplishments
- Accelerated Student
- DEI Student Advisory Committee founding member
Employer
University of Wisconsin–Madison, Office of Strategic Communication
Job title
Assistant Director of Social Media
Start date
August 2024
Primary job responsibilities
I work directly with the Chancellor to manage her social media accounts and assist in running the official UW-Madison accounts. My role involves collaborating cross-functionally on projects, campaigns, and content creation that advance the university’s mission. Additionally, I co-lead a Social Media Community of Practice, where I work with and learn from communicators across campus to enhance our social media strategies.
How do you use what you learned at La Follette on the job?
At La Follette, I developed critical skills in synthesizing policy and initiatives which I now apply to my work in communications. My ability to distill complex information into clear, engaging content is essential for managing social media accounts and creating impactful campaigns. The collaborative projects at La Follette also prepared me for cross-functional teamwork, enabling me to effectively coordinate with various departments and stakeholders. Plus, the emphasis on data-driven decision-making at La Follette has equipped me with the research and analytical skills needed to measure the success of our social media efforts and continuously improve our strategies.
Project assistantships
I was fortunate to work as a project assistant at the Institute for Research on Poverty (IRP), funded by a Gates Foundation grant that covered my research and tuition costs. My role focused on the Wisconsin Administrative Data Core (WADC), where I collaborated with state agency leaders to coordinate meetings, communications, and analyses aimed at addressing policy issues relevant to state agencies. This experience provided me with invaluable knowledge about state agencies, UW–Madison research, and cross-collaborative work, all of which benefit the entire state of Wisconsin.
If any La Follette alumni, faculty members, or friends have helped you with your career path, who was it and how did he or she assist?
Signe Janoska-Bedi (MIPA ’19): While Signe was a student, he worked as one of my TA’s for a political science course. He learned about my interest in public affairs and introduced me to the La Follette School. The rest is history!
Marie Koko (Director of Career and Employer Services): Marie was the first person to encourage me to dream big and explore all opportunities available to me. With her support and guidance, I confidently applied for and secured a Senate internship in Washington, D.C. with a full scholarship, something I never thought possible.
Mo O’Connor (Graduate Program Manager): When I first inquired about La Follette Mo encouraged me to apply and helped me envision how I could thrive as a Bob. Despite my initial doubts about my grades, Mo assured me that my experiences outside the classroom would be valued in my application.
Lisa Ellinger (Director of Strategic Initiatives): Lisa served as my first mentor through the Wisconsin Women’s Network. As an alum, she shared her expertise, connections, and experiences, which helped me grow into the passionate, career-loving woman I am today.
Favorite Madison restaurant?
Indie Coffee and Bloom Bakery!
Anything else?
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my journey. I’ve been fortunate to have incredible mentors who have guided me through various stages of my career and personal development. Their support has been invaluable, and I strive to pay it forward by mentoring others. I now serve as a mentor and actively encourage students to build relationships and seek out mentorship opportunities.
People would be surprised to know that I …
absolutely love Shrek.