Michelle Forman Email & Phone Number

Silver Spring, Md

At APHL, I have developed, implemented, managed and analyzed APHL’s social media strategy devoted to promoting the work of public health laboratories. I work closely with staff and members to convey complex scientific topics to a public audience via multiple media channels including social networks (Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Reddit and others), blog, press releases, etc. I create and edit content that encourages engagement and promotes relationship building, and develop and execute communication strategies during public health crises to reach broad audiences. Additionally, I support and train staff and members on using social media and writing for the blog.

Washington D.C. Metro Area

While working for Rapoza Associates, I represented clients before Congress and federal agencies to encourage passage and/or implementation of policies that promote rural community and economic development. I drafted updates and conducted research on legislation and appropriations regarding affordable housing development, job creation, microenterprise and small business development. Beyond my designated job responsibilities, I volunteered to facilitate the creation of three new websites: one for Rapoza associates, one for the New Markets Tax Credit Coalition and one for the National Rural Housing Coalition.

Washington D.C. Metro Area

My responsibilities at CSPI were focused on coordinating legislative efforts at the local, state and federal levels to promote passage of menu labeling policies. I wrote op-eds and letters to the editor; coordinated press conferences and other media events; drafted and edited legislation and regulations with local and state level officials and advocates; developed advocacy materials including fact sheets, briefs and other tools; and worked closely with advocates in each jurisdiction to provide necessary support.

Greater Boston Area

While working for Massachusetts State Representative Bruce Ayers, I conducted legislative research and wrote briefings; drafted legislation as requested by Representative Ayers and his constituents; established and maintained communication with local officials, lobbyists and supporters on a daily basis; and managed all media relations by coordinating interviews, writing press releases, drafting op-eds, and crafting messages for local community publications.

Greater Boston Area

I created United’s Citizen Action Network (UCAN), a statewide grassroots advocacy group consisting of four regional groups and hundreds of individual members. I developed the structure, crafted advocacy plans, created and facilitated grassroots advocacy trainings and convened all meetings for each of these groups. Working closely with other advocacy staff, I coordinated all legislative advocacy efforts of UCAN groups including State House advocacy days and four regional legislative forums each year. In our most successful campaign, I led UCAN members in a to increase funding for Massachusetts' Affordable Housing Voucher Program (AHVP).

Washington D.C. Metro Area

My role at SOME consisted of two parts. I wrote, developed and facilitated an extensive educational curriculum for volunteers and community groups to increase understanding of issues related to homelessness and poverty. Additionally, I organized the political involvement of Citizens About Real Empowerment (C.A.R.E.), a group of homeless and formerly-homeless individuals living in SOME's transitional housing facilities. I facilitated trainings on grassroots advocacy skills and tactics for C.A.R.E. members; coordinated advocacy strategies; and supported members in preparing and delivering testimony, executing petition drives and other effective tactics. I also developed and maintained advocacy materials including fact sheets, letters and reports .