1. What do you do?
I work in government affairs for the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), where I advocate for the apparel, footwear, and travel goods industry on trade and transportation policy. Our association represents over 350 companies and more than 1,100 brands.
On the trade side, I focus on pushing for smarter tariff policies and the renewal of key trade preference programs such as the Generalized System of Preferences and the African Growth and Opportunity Act. On the transportation side, I work to reduce supply chain disruptions and keep goods moving freely. I meet regularly with folks on Capitol Hill, federal agencies, think tanks, and industry coalitions. I also analyze monthly import data and put together annual statistical reports on our industry's performance.
Before joining AAFA in late 2023, I worked at the Distilled Spirits Council promoting exports of American spirits and supporting industry committees. I first started my career in D.C. at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, where I earned the Pearce Prize working in the communications department to execute events.
2. What’s the coolest part of your job?
The coolest part of my job is learning directly from businesses about how they build and manage their supply chains — and then bringing that industry insight to policymakers to advocate for trade policies that benefit both businesses and consumers. I’m fascinated by how trade policy shapes sourcing decisions and supply chain strategies.
Working at a trade association gives me the opportunity to learn from a wide range of companies — from small businesses to large multinational brands.
My job recently took me to Vietnam, where I spoke at a footwear conference on U.S. trade policy. While there, I met with manufacturers, toured production facilities, and visited the port of Saigon. Supply chains are incredibly complex, and the firsthand knowledge I gain from these engagements is essential to advocating for policies that drive business growth while delivering value to consumers.
3. Why are you passionate about it?
I strongly believe in the power of international trade as a vital engine for economic growth and opportunity for U.S. businesses. With over 95% of the world’s consumers residing outside our borders, I’m passionate about advocating for trade agreements that enhance market access, drive efficiency, and support broader economic development.
Trade in goods and services has enabled the global exchange of ideas, innovation, and culture — enriching lives in countless ways. Some of my favorite music, coffee, and clothing are the result of interconnected global supply chains.
As international trade undergoes a period of transformation — shaped by efforts to secure supply chains and advance national interests — I find it deeply rewarding to contribute to the evolving trade policy community and support thoughtful, strategic engagement on these critical issues.
4. Which skills from your IAC degree have helped you be successful in this career?
The Ivan Allen College and the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs provided a strong foundation for my success after graduation. The coursework for both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees was rigorous and played a key role in sharpening my research and analytical skills. I’ve consistently received positive feedback on my writing and research, which I credit to the high academic standards upheld by the Nunn School.
As an undergraduate, I had the opportunity to participate in two transformative study abroad programs — one in Southeast Asia and another in the European Union. Both offered invaluable insights into regional politics and complex global challenges through meetings with government officials and analysts.
Additionally, serving as a graduate teaching assistant allowed me to develop the ability to provide constructive feedback — an essential skill I continue to use today when mentoring interns.
What truly set the Nunn School apart was the exceptional faculty, whose depth of knowledge and real-world experience made the program uniquely valuable. At my first job in D.C., with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, I had the privilege of working on events alongside several familiar faces from the Nunn School community, including Gen. Philip Breedlove and Sen. Sam Nunn himself.
5. What’s your #1 tip for students and alumni interested in your field?
My top advice for anyone looking to break into international trade is to focus on building a strong network. Attending think tank events is a great way to meet professionals in the trade policy space and stay informed about career opportunities. Additionally, organizations like the Washington International Trade Association and Women in International Trade regularly host networking events and share job postings relevant to the field.
Meet more featured alumni in the Sam Nunn School of International Affairs!
