Bryce Harlow Foundation

Paul Melmeyer came to Washington D.C. as an undergraduate student to attend George Washington University where he majored in Political Science. Paul became interested in health policy after taking several classes on the topic and interning for several health policy organizations. These led him to his current role as the Associate Director of Public Policy at the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), focusing on congressional advocacy to enact pro-rare disease patient policy and drug development.

In pursuing his Master’s in public policy at George Washington University, Paul finds many of his courses are directly applicable to his job — specifically classes in cost-benefit analysis, health economics, and health services and law. A registered lobbyist, Paul says, “I pursued a career in lobbying because I was intrigued by congressional advocacy. Working for NORD gives me the opportunity to combine interest in congressional relations with working for a cause I believe in. Being a Bryce Harlow Fellow makes me even more proud of my chosen profession.”

Timothy Powers intended to become a sports broadcaster. Although this was not the career path he ended up choosing, his degree in communications gave him the perfect combination of analysis and communication skills needed to be an effective lobbyist. “I try to communicate with stakeholders in a way that brings us together rather than pushing us apart” says Tim. He now works in education policy as the Director of Accountability and Regulatory Affairs at the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU). A registered lobbyist, Tim says “ I am able to focus my efforts on seemingly small changes I think can really make a difference and that I truly believe in.”

Tim completed his MBA at Georgetown in May, pursuing a different skill set to give him flexibility for career opportunities. Studying while working full time made him more efficient, with new skills and strategies to apply toward policy analysis. He says of the Foundation, “I am eternally grateful for the community of fellowship and the financial support the Bryce Harlow Foundation has given me.”

Bryce Harlow Fellow Bryan Wood has always had an interest in politics. During his undergraduate studies at the University of Virginia, he interned for a trade association on the Hill. After graduation, he worked with congressmen from Virginia and Kentucky and eventually landed his current role with the Financial Services Committee. Bryan says, “I’ve come to love financial services policy. The landscape of financial services is constantly changing, largely because of new technologies and entrepreneurial innovation. I enjoy finding ways to attack problems that are part of all of our daily lives.”

Bryan returned to law school because he reached a crossroad of professional needs and personal goals. Reflecting on his time as a Bryce Harlow Fellow, he says “ I have enjoyed talking with board members and fellows, hearing their stories and advice. People were so giving of their time and wisdom, I truly appreciate that.“ Bryan looks forward to being a part of the Fellow Alumni network and the opportunity to give back to future fellows.

For Logan Ferree, a career in lobbying is a great way to work on the complex problems he enjoys. This meshes perfectly with his role as a Congressional staffer on Hill, focusing on technical and complicated transportation issues. Logan is pursuing his MPP in Transportation Policy, Operations and Logistics at George Mason University to improve his skillset in a specialized field and gain a deeper policy expertise in transportation.

A colleague and BHF Alumni recommended the Bryce Harlow Fellowship to Logan, and he was especially drawn to the opportunity to meet and work with board members who could help him understand his chosen career path. “It’s been a perfect fit to have Kevin Burke as my mentor,” says Logan. “His experience and guidance has been very helpful as I think through my own career path.”

A repeat fellow, Logan reflects on a speech made at last year’s annual awards dinner. Logan says, “One of the honorees spoke about the fact that lobbying is protected under the constitution. That comment really stuck with me and reminds me of the importance of this work.”

Politics runs in the family for Bryce Harlow fellow Suzanne Falk. Her mom was a White House correspondent and Suzanne got an early start  in public policy interning for her U.S. Congressman while in high school and in college. Her interest in healthcare policy led her to the Medical Group Management Association.  As their Associate Director of Government Affairs, Suzanne keeps members apprised of evolving federal regulations and policies and collects feedback on the local and regional impact of policies. “What makes my job exciting,” says Suzanne, “is that in healthcare, even seemingly small policy changes can make a big difference.”

Suzanne is currently pursuing her Masters in Public Policy at Georgetown University, and learned about the Bryce Harlow Fellowship from a colleague and BHF alum. She immediately drawn to the Foundation’s high standards for integrity in the lobbying field.  Suzanne considers it a privilege to be part of the Bryce Harlow community.

Derek Brandt’s interest in politics and policy began during his undergraduate years at the University of Wisconsin – River Falls, where he volunteered on campaigns and served as the president of the university’s Student Senate.  Derek’s current role with the American Academy of Neurology strikes a perfect personal and professional  balance for him — it’s personal because his wife has epilepsy.

Derek chose to pursue a law degree at The George Washington University to gain formal education to supplement his professional experience.  He says the most valuable components of the Fellowship for him are honest conversations with his mentor and networking events with board members. “The BHF board members really have an impact on public policy,” says Derek. “They serve as terrific role models for me and other Fellows.”

Alexandria Icenhower was drawn to the Bryce Harlow Foundation as a place where she could learn from others — and join a community of like-minded individuals. “Being a fellow instantly conveys that you are committed to integrity in lobbying,” she says. Ali recently began a new job at Honeywell involving more direct advocacy, thanks in part to the mentoring piece of the fellowship program. “The foundation has already had a huge, positive impact on my career, largely through my mentor, Arshi Siddiqui” says Ali. “Her coaching, ideas, and guidance have been wonderful.”

Ali’s interest in lobbying started in high school where she was involved in the California Association of Student Councils which focused on education issues. This experience led her to pursue an undergraduate degree in political science at Wellesley College. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Political Communications at Johns Hopkins University.

The foundation today announced its honorees for the 35th annual awards dinner on April 27, 2016.  Congressman Kevin Brady (R-Texas), Chairman of the U.S. House of Representative Ways & Means Committee, will receive the Bryce Harlow Award.  Mrs. Blanche L. Lincoln of the Lincoln Policy Group (former U.S. Senator and member of the House of Representatives from Arkansas) will receive the Business Government Relations award.  Please visit 2016 Annual Dinner on our website for more information or to register for the event. We hope you join us on April 27th to honor these two outstanding individuals.