About Us

Who We Are

Making blue waves in progressive fundraising

Grassroots Analytics breaks down barriers to civic and community engagement by building tech tools for left-leaning candidates, causes, and social good nonprofit organizations.

Founded in 2017, Grassroots Analytics quickly grew into a leading progressive technology firm with top political, nonprofit, and tech talent. Through a uniquely collaborative workplace, our team produces record innovation.

During the 2022 cycle, Grassroots Analytics supported over 1,000 campaigns and organizations across all 50 states.
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Grassroots Analytics' mission is to provide innovative data solutions to amplify forward-thinking voices, causes, and people.

Team

Product

Joey Mamlin

Chief Product Officer
As a proud Ohioan, Joey is eager to assist in the effort of turning districts blue across all levels of government in the great Midwest. He has advised dozens of Red to Blue campaigns with GAC since 2018, and looks forward to flipping more seats in the upcoming cycle. Joey has particular expertise in helping campaigns responsibly build email programs, and making innovative call time lists.
 
EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science and American Studies, The George Washington University

WHAT EXCITES JOEY?
American History
A nice stereo sound system
Cleveland sports

Sadie Newcombe

Vice President of Product Development

Before joining the Grassroots team, Sadie worked on the finance team for Tedra Cobb for Congress, where the campaign raised over $1 million in just three days. As a proud Upstate New Yorker, Sadie also worked on Tedra’s 2018 finance team. She is excited to use her experience to help Progressives win up and down the ballot.

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science, Niagara University 

WHAT EXCITES SADIE?
English Bulldogs
Vintage Political Pins
Women's Soccer

Kevin Ralph

Director of Mail Fundraising

Kevin has over six years of experience working on political campaigns and has specialized in fundraising, raising millions of dollars for candidates in that time. He's executed direct mail campaigns for candidates, nonprofit organizations, and Labor. He is always striving to improve and innovate. 

In his free time, Kevin likes to explore state and national parks with his partner and hang out with their pets: Ducky the rabbit, Bo the guinea pig, and Kischka the cat.

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science and Economics, Denison University

WHAT EXCITES KEVIN?
Meeting new people
Solving problems with a team
Hiking a new trail

Kiara Madar

Sr. Fundraising Strategist

Kiara has worked on multiple competitive Congressional campaigns, including most recently as Finance Director for Rep. Maxwell Frost. She has worked in Ohio, Texas, and Florida, raising a cumulative of 12 million dollars prior to joining Grassroots. While in her role here, she worked with clients across the country to establish and fine-tune their fundraising programs.

EDUCATION
B.A., Historical Archaeology, University of York

WHAT EXCITES KIARA?
Slytherin House
Reality TV
Getting squirrels to follow her home

Denisha Ragland

Fundraising Strategist

Denisha is an East Tennessee native who joined the Grassroots Analytics team after serving as the Call Time Manager and Special Assistant for Nina Turner. She is passionate about electing progressive candidates with new and exciting ideas and strategies up and down the ballot.

EDUCATION
B.A., Global Studies and Political Science, University of Tennessee

WHAT EXCITES DENISHA?
BlPOC and women candidates
Reading
International Travel

Trisa Chakraborty

Fundraising Strategist
Prior to Grassroots, Trisa served in many roles on local, state, and national campaigns in Indiana/the Midwest. She is devoted to empowering and fighting for the rights of underserved communities, having spent the past year in a leading role vaccinating and advocating for the homeless during the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout her time in college she has conducted multidisciplinary academic research in cancer related immunotherapy, labor economics,
medicaid/medicare, and social justice movements. She is committed to elevating the voices of minority groups and propelling candidates and organizations that can make a difference in their community through inspiration and authenticity.
 
EDUCATION 
B.S., Biochemistry, Political Science, and Healthcare Management & Policy; Minor
in Spanish and Biology, Indiana University
 
WHAT EXCITES TRISA?
Electing more women/BIPOC candidates 
Intersectionality of health policy, medical care, and health administration
Ethiopian food

Pryor P. Krugman

Sr. Data Analyst & Director of Internship Programming

A proud Atlanta native, Pryor comes to Grassroots to support and uplift progressive campaigns in the American South. After dancing with Atlanta Ballet for 12 years, Pryor began work in nonprofit arts development and management where he garnered extensive fundraising, public relations, and customer service experience. Pryor officially made the shift to the political sphere during the 2020 Election Cycle when he worked with voter mobilization organizations in Georgia and joined now-Senator Jon Ossoff’s campaign. While his experience on the campaign trail was life-changing, Pryor is excited to join the Grassroots team where he will work directly with multiple campaigns of all different sizes on the federal, state and local levels--helping them in their effort to make important, long-lasting change in this country.

EDUCATION 
B.A., Government and
B.A., Artistic Production and Management, Wesleyan University

WHAT EXCITES PRYOR?
Traveling to a new destination (he tries to do this at least once a year)
Commercial airplanes (not a joke)
Delicious meals with friends and family
His dream of someday owning a big, fluffy, orange cat named Polenta

Jessie Koch

Fundraising Strategist

Jessie is a Maryland native with multiple cycles of campaign fundraising and management under her belt. As a Fundraising Strategist, she leads the Southeast region, helping GA clients raise over $16.8m last cycle! Outside the office, Jessie spends her time reading, traveling, and photographing her experiences. 

EDUCATION 
B.S., Legal Studies
, Stevenson University

WHAT EXCITES JESSIE?
When her candidate makes the hard ask
A well-organized spreadsheet
A perfectly pulled espresso

Claire Cilien

Data Analyst
Born and raised in Long Island, New York. Prior to joining going Grassroots Analytics full-time, Claire served as a Call Time Manager and Intern Coordinator for Congressman Mondaire Jones. She is excited to return to Grassroots Analytics as a full-time Data Analyst as a former Summer 2021 intern. Her passion for social justice and politics leaves her buzzing with excitement to use Grassroots data to push forward the interests of marginalized groups. Claire is looking forward to advancing progressive causes, brainstorming innovative ideas, and bringing her fundraising skills to candidates looking to save our democracy.
 
EDUCATION 
B.A., Political Science, University of Tampa
 
WHAT EXCITES CLAIRE?
Romance Novels
Museums
New Restaurants
Poetry

Amatullah Contractor

Director of Campaign Resources

Amatullah is a dedicated community organizer with a passion for civic engagement and helping underestimated communities build and wield their collective power. Prior to this role, Amatullah served as the team lead of Emgage’s Texas chapter where she helped build power within the Muslim community by engaging the community in electoral participation and grassroots advocacy.

EDUCATION:
B.A., Political Science, University of Houston

WHAT EXCITES AMATULLAH?
Voting rights
Oatmeal chocolate chip cookies
Cultural immersion

Amatullah Contractor

Director of Campaign Resources

Amatullah is a dedicated community organizer with a passion for civic engagement and helping underestimated communities build and wield their collective power. Prior to this role, Amatullah served as the team lead of Emgage’s Texas chapter where she helped build power within the Muslim community by engaging the community in electoral participation and grassroots advocacy.

EDUCATION:
B.A., Political Science, University of Houston

WHAT EXCITES AMATULLAH?
Voting rights
Oatmeal chocolate chip cookies
Cultural immersion

Revenue 

Elvin Bruno

Chief Revenue Officer

Elvin Bruno, Jr. is the Chief Revenue Officer at Grassroots Analytics. From 2017-2020, he served as the National Organizing Director at It's On Us, a national nonprofit initiative started by President Biden during the Obama administration in 2014, whose mission is to combat sexual violence on college campuses by getting men involved. Elvin was a 2019 Toledo 20 Under 40 nominee. He has 11 years of political and nonprofit experience, having worked in organizing, digital, and fundraising for campaigns on the local, statewide, and federal level. Elvin has organized in Massachusetts, Texas, California, and Ohio, and worked on the last two presidential campaigns in Ohio. Elvin spearheaded the launch and development of Grassroots Analytics' texting product. Over his career, Elvin has helped raise over $20 million for various candidates and causes.



EDUCATION
BBA, Finance, Isenberg School of Management, UMass Amherst

WHAT EXCITES ELVIN?
Traveling
Trying new restaurants
Raising money for great candidates and causes

Competition

Diego Dew

Vice President of Revenue

Diego is a Bay Area native, former organizer, and acclaimed Baby Gap model who is passionate about electing Democrats up and down the ballot. Diego joined the Grassroots team in 2021 after working for the Gina Ortiz Jones campaign, a former GA client. Since 2021, he has led sales efforts in the West, directed the campaign sales department, and helped develop GA’s intern program. Diego is excited to continue GA’s mission of providing overlooked and underfunded campaigns with the resources (and analytics) they need to win. 

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science; Minor in Theatre and Performance Studies, Stanford University

WHAT EXCITES DIEGO?
Shakespeare, Succession, and Senate Majorities
$1 King Street Oysters
"They do have a timeout, decide not to use it. Curry, way downtown... BANG! BANG! Oh what a shot from Curry!" 

Julia Murray

Senior Director of Accounts

Julia was one of the first members of the Grassroots team, bringing campaign experience on local and federal campaigns from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and New York. She is passionate about making it easier for folks to run for all levels of office, and is incredibly proud of the impact Grassroots had had since its beginnings.

EDUCATION
B.A., Citizenship and Civic Engagement and Political Science, Syracuse University

WHAT EXCITES JULIA?
Passionate women running for all levels of office
Podcasts about political scandals + art heists
Grassroots Analytics baking contests

Katiana Person

Midwest Regional Account Manager

Katiana has a passion for justice, advocacy, and the exploration of helping others. Leaning toward politics in a previous internship at the Florida House of Representatives, she experienced a world of new knowledge and a strong dedication to creating awareness and having more conversations with her peers about everyday issues in the United States.

 

After graduating from Florida State University, Kati joined the Grassroots team as a Summer 2022 intern and became a full-time staff shortly after.

 

EDUCATION
B.A., Criminal Justice & Criminology, Florida State University

WHAT EXCITES KATIANA?
The future 
Traveling
Her adorable Australian Shepherd dog 

Danny Cooper

Director, GA Media + Northeast Regional Sales Lead

Danny is a native New Yorker who joined the Grassroots team after serving as a Field Organizer with the Arizona Coordinated Campaign during the 2020 cycle. Previously, he worked as a Legislative Assistant advocating for immigration justice for the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. He is proud to join GAC in its mission of democratizing progressive politics and looks forward to helping Democrats win at the local, state, and federal levels.

EDUCATION
BSJ, Journalism; Northwestern University

WHAT EXCITES DANNY?
Progressive victories
Finding new recipes
The rare instances when the Mets and Jets win

Danny Cooper

Director, GA Media + Northeast Regional Sales Lead

Danny is a native New Yorker who joined the Grassroots team after serving as a Field Organizer with the Arizona Coordinated Campaign during the 2020 cycle. Previously, he worked as a Legislative Assistant advocating for immigration justice for the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. He is proud to join GAC in its mission of democratizing progressive politics and looks forward to helping Democrats win at the local, state, and federal levels.

EDUCATION
BSJ, Journalism; Northwestern University

WHAT EXCITES DANNY?
Progressive victories
Finding new recipes
The rare instances when the Mets and Jets win

Digital

Meghan McAnespie

Digital Lab Director and Chief Innovation Officer

Meghan joins Grassroots Analytics following digital strategy and training roles at Washington D.C based digital firms. She has spearheaded digital strategy for Democratic candidates across the country and up and down the ballot. Her specialty has been digital fundraising for top Red to Blue Congressional races. Previously, Meghan was a Field Organizer in Ohio for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 Presidential Campaign. She graduated from the Catholic University of America in Washington D.C and is a Lowell, Massachusetts native.

 

WHAT EXCITES MEGHAN?
Training
Online fundraising hauls in down ballot races
Pad Thai

Katie Hegarty

Digital Director

Katie has spent a decade crafting digital programs that break new ground and defy old expectations. She specializes in helping organizations and candidates communicate their unique mission. In doing so, she's raised millions of grassroots dollars in support of the issues that affect everyone from your house to the White House.

 

EDUCATION 

B.A., Tufts University

 

WHAT EXCITES KATIE?

A great audiobook narrator
An unexpected Bill Crystal cameo
A/B testing

 

Robin Miller

Digital Training Manager

Robin Miller is an energetic digital fundraiser who has raised millions of dollars from small-dollar donors for progressive candidates and causes during her time at Grassroots. Robin is a passionate campaign wonk who has worked on campaigns in her hometown of Westford, Massachusetts up to the national level. Robin specializes in digital fundraising through email and P2P texting, bringing her experience from a Democratic digital firm in the 2020 campaign cycle. Robin has received training from AU's Campaign Management Institute and Emerge MA's Campaign Manager Bootcamp.

 

EDUCATION 
M.P.A., American University

B.A., Political Science, American University

WHAT EXCITES ROBIN?
Progressive female candidates
Her dog, Rory
And the little ding when a candidate gets an ActBlue donation!

Grayson Hernandez

Sr. Digital Strategist

Grayson is a Southern California native who is passionate about uplifting progressive candidates and powering grassroots movements. She specializes in digital fundraising and has years of experience spearheading email programs for Democratic organizations and Congressional PACs. Previously, she led a team of digital strategists at a Washington, D.C. digital firm. She enjoys warm weather, (real) Mexican food, and curating Spotify playlists to match her mood.

EDUCATION
B.A. Political Science, Comparative Politics Emphasis, University of California, Santa Barbara

WHAT EXCITES GRAYSON?
EOM and EOQ hauls
The "Los Angeles" Chargers (Still San Diego in my heart)
Styling a sweet fit
Catching the metro right before it arrives

David Davies

Mobile Fundraising Manager

David Davies is a South Florida native who has experience as both a fundraiser and organizer. After graduating from New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study in 2018, he worked as an organizer in Florida's gubernatorial primary and then in Arizona for the Arizona Democratic Party up and down the ballot in the 2018 midterm elections. Since arriving in DC in 2019, David has worked with campaigns, nonprofits and PACs across the country at the local, state and federal level both in traditional avenues of fundraising and now as part of the Mobile team here at Grassroots Analytics.   He looks forward to helping elect more Democrats at all levels, including hopefully growing LGBTQ representation in politics.

EDUCATION
B.A., Gallatin School of Individualized Study, New York University

WHAT EXCITES DAVID?
Florida Panthers hockey
Star Wars
Anything related to cats

Alicia Siddiqi

Digital Strategist

Alicia is a current graduate student at American University in Washington D.C. She has always been fond of politics with experience in local democratic campaigns in Virginia and work experience at a digital strategy firm supporting and advising campaigns and advocacy groups. Alicia is excited about working with progressive candidates from all backgrounds!

EDUCATION
M.A., Political Science, American University, class of 2023
B.S., Political Science and Justice Studies, James Madison University

WHAT EXCITES ALICIA?
Progressive Candidates with diverse backgrounds
Traveling
The Kardashians

Eliana Scobey

Digital Strategist

Eliana is a New York native who joined the Grassroots Analytics team following experience at Washington, D.C. digital firms. She got her start doing grassroots campaign work for local Chicago elections. Now, she specializes in digital fundraising and is excited to use that experience to elect progressive candidates across the country at the local, state, and federal levels.

EDUCATION
B.S., Learning and Organizational Change, Political Science, Northwestern University

WHAT EXCITES ELIANA?
Concerts
Chicago Sports
Reading

Mayra Alejandra Rodriguez

Digital Associate

Mayra Alejandra was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and attended the University of Florida where she uncovered a passion to help communities of color, especially the Hispanic community through mentorship and spreading awareness. Mayra Alejandra interned on the Hill for two members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. She later became the first Communications Fellow for BOLD PAC, the campaign arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus where she worked on the organization's social media platforms, communications strategy, attended fundraising events, and created digital content that was used by members of the Congress and grassroots organizations. In her chill time, Mayra Alejandra enjoys practicing her photography, skating, and listening to music.

EDUCATION
B.A., Criminology; minor in Latin American Studies, University of Florida

WHAT EXCITES MAYRA?
Frank Ocean & Bad Bunny
Eucalyptus Spearmint & Mahogany Teakwood Candles

Clark Henderson

Mobile Fundraising Associate

Clark Henderson (he/they) is a recent graduate of the University of Georgia where he received a Bachelor of Arts in political science. Clark is passionate about working to get progressive candidates elected across the country, especially in the south. Growing up in rural South Georgia, Clark is hyper aware of the issues facing communities like his hometown of Statesboro, Georgia and believes that enacting progressive policies in these areas has the potential to create more equitable communities for everyone!

Clark Henderson

Mobile Fundraising Associate

Clark Henderson (he/they) is a recent graduate of the University of Georgia where he received a Bachelor of Arts in political science. Clark is passionate about working to get progressive candidates elected across the country, especially in the south. Growing up in rural South Georgia, Clark is hyper aware of the issues facing communities like his hometown of Statesboro, Georgia and believes that enacting progressive policies in these areas has the potential to create more equitable communities for everyone!

Ariyana Ward

Summer Data Analyst

Ariyana is a native Virginia Beachian who has joined the Grassroots team after serving as an intern for four Democratic political campaigns from 2020-2022 – two being in Maryland, and two in Virginia. Ariyana is currently an undergraduate student at Frostburg State University located in Frostburg, Maryland, where she will graduate with a degree in Political Science and as a two-term Student Body President. Ariyana is also in her third year as President of the Frostburg NAACP Chapter and third year as the 2nd Vice President for the Virginia Beach City NAACP Chapter. Ariyana is passionate about advocating for change for marginalized groups, being a voice of change, and looks forward to helping Democrats win!

Catrina Wolfe

Summer Data Analyst

Catrina is a California native currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in classics at Occidental College in Los Angeles. While at school, she works as a research assistant for a sociology professor, collecting data on how sexual violence victims pursue justice through civil cases. Prior to joining Grassroots, she worked for multiple southern California congressional campaigns on both finance and field teams. She also interned in Julia Brownley’s district office. Catrina is passionate about electing more women to office, climate change, and drug reform.

Tech

Zach Krasner

Chief Technology Officer

Raised in the mountains of central Vermont, Zach grew up with a strong passion for understanding and building technology. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania, he began a career at Bridgewater Associates implementing a platform for the world's biggest investors to achieve their investment goals. He's excited to help Grassroots Analytics grow into the future.

Destiny Guzmán

Junior Developer

Before joining Grassroots, Destiny served as the Call Time Manager and Campaign Coordinator on Moe Brown’s Campaign for Congress. She specializes in formulating fundraising strategies for first-time candidates, curating fine-tuned donor universes, and has insight into successful fundraising approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is eager to merge her passions of campaign finance, research, advocacy, and data science to empower candidates and organizations who value people and communities first.

Brian Dugan

Full Stack Developer

Brian is a proud Missourian with a mission of helping progressive movements and campaigns accomplish more with less manual work. He has experience building scalable solutions to common pain points within political communications and is excited to continue improving the technology available to progressives. Most importantly, Brian is a Kennedy Center man. 

EDUCATION
B.S., Business Marketing, University of Missouri
B.A., Political Science, University of Missouri

Martha Rounds Preschool


WHAT EXCITES BRIAN?
A warm sunny day
Dogs that act like cats
Policies addressing economic inequality

Nadine Tabucol

Junior Developer

Nadine is from Los Angeles and graduated from UCLA with a bachelors in Physics. In addition to her interest and experience in the field of space science, she has also developed an interest in social progress and equity in education through her volunteer work with Title I schools. She is excited to learn more about political campaigns and apply her quantitative background in support of progressive candidates and values.

Enya Chen

Software Developer

Enya is a Maryland native who got her start in politics volunteering with Jennifer Kitchen's Virginia state campaign. Before joining Grassroots Analytics, she worked on building fundraising software tools for digital firms and is excited to continue creating new products that will help empower progressive candidates.

EDUCATION
M.S., Computer Science, University of Michigan
B.S., Computer Science, University of Michigan

WHAT EXCITES ENYA?
New Girl
Cats that act like dogs
A freshly baked chocolate chip cookie that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside

Enya Chen

Full Stack Developer

Enya is a Maryland native who got her start in politics volunteering with Jennifer Kitchen's Virginia state campaign. Before joining Grassroots Analytics, she worked on building fundraising software tools for digital firms and is excited to continue creating new products that will help empower progressive candidates.

EDUCATION
M.S., Computer Science, University of Michigan
B.S., Computer Science, University of Michigan

WHAT EXCITES ENYA?
New Girl
Cats that act like dogs
A freshly baked chocolate chip cookie that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside

Claudia Shrivastava

Chief Financial Officer

Claudia is excited to join Grassroots Analytics as CFO and help grow the firm's capacity to improve fundraising for progressive causes and candidates. She has previously worked in the campaign space as well as in finance focusing on structured credit investments. She has an MA in International Affairs from Columbia University and a BSc in Mathematics and Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh.

Parent Company

Danny Hogenkamp

CEO and Chairman of the Board

Danny has served as CEO and Chairman of Grassroots Analytics since 2020. He manages GA's industry leading progressive consumer database and oversees GA's numerous investments. Previously, Danny founded Grassroots Analytics Campaigns in 2016, and provided data-driven strategy to hundreds of Democratic campaigns, multiple Presidential campaigns, and more than 50 members of Congress.

 

EDUCATION
B.A., Public Policy and Arabic, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

WHAT EXCITES DANNY?
DC Pickup Basketball
Vermont
Living with social media

Morgan Kull

Summer Data Analyst
Morgan comes to Grassroots Analytics as a Chicagoland area native excited to be a Summer Data Analyst. Currently getting her master's degree in public policy at University of Illinois at Chicago, Morgan will be putting her data skills to the test to help elect Democrats. Previously, she has worked on the legislative side of politics as an intern at the Alabama State House, in a district congressional office in Alabama, and on campaigns helping turn out voters in a variety of Illinois races (IL-06 Sean Casten, IL-14 Lauren Underwood, and a State House race).

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science, Auburn University
M.A., Public Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago (Degree in progress)

WHAT EXCITES MORGAN?
First time female candidates and flipping Southern seats from red to blue
Cats, coffee, concerts
A new season of the Great British Bake Off

Claudia Shrivastava

Chief Financial Officer

Claudia is excited to join Grassroots Analytics as CFO and help grow the firm's capacity to improve fundraising for progressive causes and candidates. She has previously worked in the campaign space as well as in finance focusing on structured credit investments. She has an MA in International Affairs from Columbia University and a BSc in Mathematics and Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh.

Mark Lancaster

General Counsel

Mark A. Lancaster was named General Counsel for Grassroots Analytics in June 2022. As chief legal officer and chief legal compliance officer, Mark oversees GA’s human resources, and legal affairs, including labor and employment law, corporate governance, litigation, internal audit, mergers and acquisitions, corporate compliance, and regulatory compliance.

 

For the bulk of his career, Mark has stood in solidarity with underrepresented and underserved individuals from all walks of life. Mark has a keen interest in advocating for those who advocate on behalf of those who too often go unheard. Undergirding this desire is Mark’s extensive experience providing advice in real time regarding myriad issues to both for-profit entities and nonprofit organizations throughout the country, as well on behalf of international clients.

 

He also has significant experience as a civil litigator. Mark served as a law clerk for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, in its National Security Section and for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Honors Law Clerk program, in its Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance while attending the University of Baltimore School of Law. During this time, he also served as a law clerk for the University of Maryland’s Medical System in its Office of General Counsel where he focused on resolving procurement matters, as well as employment and labor issues.

 

A proud Maryland native, Mark currently serves as Vice President for the Maryland Coalition of Families, a nonprofit organization that facilitates access to mental health resources for Maryland residents. Mark is a member of the bars of the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia.

 

EDUCATION
JD, University of Baltimore School of Law
B.S., Honors Program, Morgan State University

 

WHAT EXCITES MARK?
Challenges 
Family
Service 

Ryan Dunn

Director, Operations

Hailing from Minnesota, Ryan brings diverse experience to the Grassroots Analytics team. With time spent working in Senator Klobuchar’s office, healthcare consulting, and on campaigns, he’s ready to put this experience to work helping improve fundraising capabilities for all progressive causes.

Joshua Lewis

Controller
Josh grew up in Rochester, New York, and moved to Syracuse to begin his professional career in accounting there. He worked in public audit for four years, and during this time, he obtained his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. Most recently, Josh was a Senior Staff Accountant for three hotels, working under Widewaters Hotels in Syracuse. He is a recent DC transplant and excited to be part of the progressive movement, which he believes is more important now than it ever has been before!
 
EDUCATION
B.S., Accounting, SUNY Brockport
B.S., Economics, Rochester Institute of Technology

WHAT EXCITES JOSH?
Travel, especially new places and experiences
Movies, Josh and his wife see 4-8 new movies a month
Games of all sorts. Video, card, board... Josh enjoys them all!
 

Destiny Guzmán

Deputy Technical Director

Before joining Grassroots, Destiny served as the Call Time Manager and Campaign Coordinator on Moe Brown’s Campaign for Congress. She specializes in formulating fundraising strategies for first-time candidates, curating fine-tuned donor universes, and has insight into successful fundraising approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is eager to merge her passions of campaign finance, research, advocacy, and data science to empower candidates and organizations who value people and communities first.

Peola (PJ) Johnson

Office Manager/ Executive Assistant

Originally from Louisiana, I came to DC in 2019 to attend George Washington University. I graduated with a BA in Political Science in 2022 and am currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Political Management. In my spare time I enjoy watching movies, listening to political podcast and studying philosophy. My goals are to one day open a political conslting firm focused on recruiting unorthodox thinking candidates dedicated to thinking outside the box to create a better world. I also want day want to create a philanthropic organization dedicated to finding homes for children and improving the foster care system.

 

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science- Public Policy, George Washington University

WHAT EXCITES PJ?
Seeing others happy/completing their projects
Harry Potter
Philosophical discussions/debates

Morgan Kull

Director of Marketing and Communications
Morgan comes to Grassroots Analytics from the Chicagoland area. After being a Grassroots Analytics Sales and Marketing Intern, Morgan was hired full-time as a Data Analyst, promoted to Senior Data Analyst, and now serves as GA's Director of Marketing and Communications. 
 
Her experience working in the Alabama State House and with different Chicagoland Congressional races motivated her to join GA's mission of breaking down barriers to help win elections!

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science, Auburn University
M.A., Public Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago

WHAT EXCITES MORGAN?
Group fitness classes 
Cats, coffee, concerts
Erling Haaland scoring goals
A new season of the Great British Bake Off

Meghna Shetty

Graphic Designer
Meghna is a multi-disciplinary creative with a fashion background, diving into the graphic design world to create unique outcomes with a fusion of these skillsets. As a fellow at the Career Equity and Access center at Suffolk, she actively supported efforts to engage students from underrepresented communities. Her passion for diversity and inclusion helped to increase campus outreach and she also led the development and implementation of programs that educates the Suffolk community about equity and inclusion topics in the context of the workplace and student development. Currently, Meghna is pursuing a double Masters in Project Management to focus on Human-Centered Interaction Design.
 
EDUCATION
M.A., Graphic Design, Suffolk University
M.A, Project Management, Harrisburg University
BFA, Fashion Design & Technology, Pearl Academy
 
WHAT EXCITES MEGHNA?

Pop culture and how it helps strengthen interactions with people and build connections
Exploring the art scene at every city
K-drama + k-pop + korean food

Morgan Kull

Summer Data Analyst
Morgan comes to Grassroots Analytics as a Chicagoland area native excited to be a Summer Data Analyst. Currently getting her master's degree in public policy at University of Illinois at Chicago, Morgan will be putting her data skills to the test to help elect Democrats. Previously, she has worked on the legislative side of politics as an intern at the Alabama State House, in a district congressional office in Alabama, and on campaigns helping turn out voters in a variety of Illinois races (IL-06 Sean Casten, IL-14 Lauren Underwood, and a State House race).

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science, Auburn University
M.A., Public Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago (Degree in progress)

WHAT EXCITES MORGAN?
First time female candidates and flipping Southern seats from red to blue
Cats, coffee, concerts
A new season of the Great British Bake Off

Carla Darrow

Human Resources Manager

Carla is a dedicated HR professional who joined GA in 2021. Originally from Ecuador, she brings a unique perspective to the team. Her passion for Human Resources makes her a dedicated and valuable member of GA, who is always looking for ways to improve the company's HR practices and policies. Carla's approach to HR is centered on creating an inclusive work environment for all employees and she is always looking for opportunities to learn and grow.

 

EDUCATION
B.A., Business Management, University of the District of Columbia

WHAT EXCITES CARLA?
Traveling to places with awe-inspiring settings
Trees
Mornings

Morgan Kull

Summer Data Analyst
Morgan comes to Grassroots Analytics as a Chicagoland area native excited to be a Summer Data Analyst. Currently getting her master's degree in public policy at University of Illinois at Chicago, Morgan will be putting her data skills to the test to help elect Democrats. Previously, she has worked on the legislative side of politics as an intern at the Alabama State House, in a district congressional office in Alabama, and on campaigns helping turn out voters in a variety of Illinois races (IL-06 Sean Casten, IL-14 Lauren Underwood, and a State House race).

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science, Auburn University
M.A., Public Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago (Degree in progress)

WHAT EXCITES MORGAN?
First time female candidates and flipping Southern seats from red to blue
Cats, coffee, concerts
A new season of the Great British Bake Off

Joshua Lewis

Controller
Josh grew up in Rochester, New York, and moved to Syracuse to begin his professional career in accounting there. He worked in public audit for four years, and during this time, he obtained his Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. Most recently, Josh was a Senior Staff Accountant for three hotels, working under Widewaters Hotels in Syracuse. He is a recent DC transplant and excited to be part of the progressive movement, which he believes is more important now than it ever has been before!
 
What excites Josh?
Travel, especially new places and experiences
Movies, Josh and his wife see 4-8 new movies a month
Games of all sorts.  Video, card, board... Josh enjoys them all!
 
Education  
B.S. in Accounting - SUNY Brockport
B.S. in Economics - Rochester Institute of Technology
 

Shefa Ahsan

Creative Director, GA Media

After receiving her BA in Film and Media Arts from Temple University, Shefa knew she wanted to tell stories in a creative way. Passionate about progressive politics, she knew that one way to do this was to present campaign launch and hype videos in a new way. When she's not shooting the newest soon-to-go-viral campaign video, Shefa also freelances – fun fact, she took all of the photos you see on the GA website!

Shefa Ahsan

Creative Director, GA Media

After receiving her BA in Film and Media Arts from Temple University, Shefa knew she wanted to tell stories in a creative way. Passionate about progressive politics, she knew that one way to do this was to present campaign launch and hype videos in a new way. When she's not shooting the newest soon-to-go-viral campaign video, Shefa also freelances – fun fact, she took all of the photos you see on the GA website!

Destiny Guzmán

Deputy Technical Director

Before joining Grassroots, Destiny served as the Call Time Manager and Campaign Coordinator on Moe Brown’s Campaign for Congress. She specializes in formulating fundraising strategies for first-time candidates, curating fine-tuned donor universes, and has insight into successful fundraising approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic. She is eager to merge her passions of campaign finance, research, advocacy, and data science to empower candidates and organizations who value people and communities first.

Interns: Summer 2023 Class Coming Soon!

Catrina Wolfe

Summer Data Analyst

Catrina is a California native currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in classics at Occidental College in Los Angeles. While at school, she works as a research assistant for a sociology professor, collecting data on how sexual violence victims pursue justice through civil cases. Prior to joining Grassroots, she worked for multiple southern California congressional campaigns on both finance and field teams. She also interned in Julia Brownley’s district office. Catrina is passionate about electing more women to office, climate change, and drug reform.

Ariyana Ward

Summer Data Analyst

Ariyana is a native Virginia Beachian who has joined the Grassroots team after serving as an intern for four Democratic political campaigns from 2020-2022 – two being in Maryland, and two in Virginia. Ariyana is currently an undergraduate student at Frostburg State University located in Frostburg, Maryland, where she will graduate with a degree in Political Science and as a two-term Student Body President. Ariyana is also in her third year as President of the Frostburg NAACP Chapter and third year as the 2nd Vice President for the Virginia Beach City NAACP Chapter. Ariyana is passionate about advocating for change for marginalized groups, being a voice of change, and looks forward to helping Democrats win!

Catrina Wolfe

Summer Data Analyst

Catrina is a California native currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in sociology with a minor in classics at Occidental College in Los Angeles. While at school, she works as a research assistant for a sociology professor, collecting data on how sexual violence victims pursue justice through civil cases. Prior to joining Grassroots, she worked for multiple southern California congressional campaigns on both finance and field teams. She also interned in Julia Brownley’s district office. Catrina is passionate about electing more women to office, climate change, and drug reform.

Morgan Kull

Summer Data Analyst
Morgan comes to Grassroots Analytics as a Chicagoland area native excited to be a Summer Data Analyst. Currently getting her master's degree in public policy at University of Illinois at Chicago, Morgan will be putting her data skills to the test to help elect Democrats. Previously, she has worked on the legislative side of politics as an intern at the Alabama State House, in a district congressional office in Alabama, and on campaigns helping turn out voters in a variety of Illinois races (IL-06 Sean Casten, IL-14 Lauren Underwood, and a State House race).

EDUCATION
B.A., Political Science, Auburn University
M.A., Public Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago (Degree in progress)

WHAT EXCITES MORGAN?
First time female candidates and flipping Southern seats from red to blue
Cats, coffee, concerts
A new season of the Great British Bake Off

Owen Turnbull

Spring Data Analyst

Owen is a current undergraduate student at the University of Maryland. Studying both Political and Data Sciences, Owen hopes to integrate his knowledge of statistics and politics in order to assist progressive campaigns around the country. Prior to this internship, Owen worked for Maryland State Senator Ronald Young as a legislative aide. He has also worked extensively as an aid in the Maryland Senate.

WHAT EXCITES OWEN?
Seeing Progressive Victories
Drug Policy Reform
Music History
Travel

Josh Vera O'Steen

Spring Data Analyst

A proud Seattle native, Josh joins Grassroots Analytics with a strong background in statistics and previous internship experience in political consulting. He helped conduct research on legislative behavior at American University’s Center for Data Science and has done academic research on voter microtargeting. As someone who cares deeply about progressive causes, Josh is excited to be helping progressive campaigns win across the country.

Mort Ricky

Chief Education Officer

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