Running Start

Wondering what makes Running Start so special? Moments like these, getting to connect with our community, explain it pretty well.

At a recent networking breakfast in DC, we shared moments like celebrating a new job offer, learning about a new career field, and planning a next coffee chat!

We want to host our next gathering in your city! Make sure we know where in the world you are by updating your contact info at bit.ly/RScontactupdate

This week's Leveraging LinkedIn workshop with our Next Step Community was a wealth of good ideas! Speakers Catlin O'Neill and Wilsar Johnson discussed the importance of building and engaging with second-degree connections, being intentional about the people you connect with and learn from, and ensuring that your profile clearly reflects the skills, experiences, and career goals you want employers to recognize. We also discussed common LinkedIn mistakes, such as treating the platform like an online résumé rather than a networking tool, and explored ways to develop an authentic online presence through thoughtful content, storytelling, and meaningful engagement.

Don't miss out on the next workshop! Join Next Step at https://bit.ly/RSNextStep26

Working with our partners like She Should Run provides opportunities to our Running Start alums (Hi Jess Murphy, Elizabeth Ogunsuyi, and Maura Danehey!), and gives us exciting new ideas for facilitating women's leadership in new ways. At Monday's She Should Run National Summit, we got to participate in a workshop learning improv to improve leadership skills like resilience and collaboration with Funny Girls. Like many new experiences, it was scary at first, but really rewarding once we jumped in!

Reflecting on two weeks since our Next Step community gathered for an insightful discussion on Legal Careers! We talked law school applications, unique pathways, and the benefits of professional associations. Thank you to our speakers for their insight and expertise.

Missed out on this panel? Join us for our Next Step Session: Leveraging LinkedIn
✨ Bring your questions and connect with professionals shaping today’s digital and political landscape.
📅 June 10 | 5–6 PM ET
💻 Virtual
🔗 Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/jaVi3WZBSB-VEiWl3BwZ6w

DC folks: Join Running Start, National Women's History Museum, & friends at the National Theater in DC for a special performance of SUFFS with an exclusive talk back following the show.
Sunday, June 28, 2:00 pm.
Tickets run from $68-130 and can be purchased at bit.ly/RSSuffs

Interested in building your professional brand or learning how to use LinkedIn more effectively?
Join Running Start on June 10 for a virtual conversation featuring Running Start alum Wilsar F Johnson, political digital strategist, alongside Catlin O’Neill, Head of Public Policy & Economic Graph at LinkedIn. Together, they’ll share insights on branding, digital communications, and networking.
✨ DM us your questions for the speakers!
📅 June 10 | 5–6 PM ET
💻 Virtual
🔗 Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/jaVi3WZBSB-VEiWl3BwZ6w #/registration

⚖️ Interested in law school or wondering what you can do with a law degree?

Join Running Start on May 20 for a virtual panel featuring Kandis McClure, Policy Advisor at Akin, plus Running Start alums in the field Alexa Marsh, Ewurama Appiagyei-Dankah and Sophia Houdaigui, who will share their experiences navigating law school and careers in law.

Whether you’re planning your next step or simply exploring the possibilities, this conversation will offer real-world insight, practical advice, and inspiration.

✨ Bring your questions and connect with professionals who have been in your shoes.

📅 May 20 | 5–6 PM ET
🔗 Register here: bit.ly/RSlaw

⚖️ Thinking about law school? Curious where a law degree can take you?

Join Running Start for a virtual panel featuring women with law degrees working across different fields and industries. From public service to policy to private practice and beyond, hear honest advice, real career stories, and insights on navigating the legal world.
Whether you’re seriously considering law school or just exploring your options, this conversation is for you.

✨ Come with questions. Leave with connections + inspiration.

📅 May 20, 5-6pm ET
🔗 Register at: bit.ly/RSlaw

Running Start participants are making real impact in their communities!

This week, Addison Lendt, Emma DeGolier, Kaylee DeGolier, Savannah Frudd, and Meredith Lendt from Westfield, New York presented their 1st Amendment 1st Vote community action project to their Board of Education.

The group organized health and wellness initiatives at their school, including a hygiene closet and health and wellness day for middle and high school students. The team created a more comfortable and open environment to talk about mental health at their school.