Megan Taylor grew up in the Washington, D.C. area and was always interested in politics. After attending college in North Carolina she worked as press secretary for different congressional members to develop a deeper understanding of the legislative process. “I believe you can’t be an effective lobbyist without being an effective communicator,” says Megan. In her current role as Press Secretary for Senator Cory Gardner, Megan helps develop strategies for what the Senator will pursue legislatively, and for crafting the ensuing messages. She sees clearly the power of advocacy and how government relations professionals help develop sound public policy. Megan says, “Lobbyists serve as a voice for the people and facilitate the distribution of information. They help us to be more informed decision makers and understand how we will impact the people we are working for.”
Megan is pursuing her Masters in Communication at Johns Hopkins University. She says, “My program supplements what I do on a daily basis, especially as media landscape is changing so dramatically year after year.“ Megan learned of the fellowship from former fellow, and although she was drawn initially to financial assistance, she now notes that the most beneficial aspect of the program has been the mentorship. She says of her mentor, “Gloria Dittus is a wonderful mentor whose character matches her talent. She truly embodies what the Foundation is about.”