As the Policy Director at Virginia League of Conservation Voters (VaLCV), I lead the state government relations efforts and policy development to advocate for conservation, water quality, clean energy, responsible transportation and land use decisions, and climate action. I oversee a team of contract lobbyists and coordinate with field and communications, grassroots and community-level organizers, and partner organizations. I represent VaLCV before Virginia General Assembly committees and state regulatory bodies, deliver remarks, and participate as an environmental subject matter expert on panels, before donors, supporters, and the VaLCV board.I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology/Biological Sciences from Cornell University, which provides me with a solid foundation and understanding of the scientific aspects of environmental issues. I have also developed strong strategic communications, media relations, and photography skills, which I use to enhance the visibility and impact of VaLCV's advocacy work. I have designed and implemented management tools, such as legislative tracking tools, to assess and report the progress and results of our advocacy efforts. Under my leadership, we have increased the coordination and collaboration across the VaLCV departments and with the Virginia Conservation Network, a coalition of 150+ environmental partners. My goal is to advance a pragmatic, forward-looking legislative agenda for VaLCV across a diverse range of environmental issues, and to empower and engage the public and policymakers to protect Virginia's natural resources and climate.