Blaze Castle

Aspiring public administrator with extensive experience in client-centered advocacy, housing and mental health policy implementation, and community-based leadership. Driven by a commitment to improving human well-being through equitable access to housing, healthcare, and social services, I seek to leverage my diverse experiences and academic background in psychology and biology in the Penn GMPA program.

• Client Advocacy & Support: Strong advocate for individuals with mental health needs and those experiencing homelessness, ensuring comprehensive care and access to resources.
• Policy Implementation & Compliance: Expertise in translating complex housing and mental health policies into actionable strategies.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Skilled in collecting, analyzing, and reporting on program outcomes to inform policy and funding decisions.
• Program Development: Leadership in developing innovative, evidence-based programs that enhance service delivery and policy initiatives.
• Cross-Cultural Communication: Experienced in working with diverse communities, including refugees, immigrants, and marginalized populations.
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Proficient in collaborating with government agencies, nonprofits, and private sector partners to address community challenges.

• Ana M. Kuhl Scholarship: Awarded for academic excellence and leadership. This scholarship supports students who show outstanding promise in their studies and commitment to social justice.
• PFUND Scholar: Recognized for my strong advocacy for marginalized voices within the community.
• CirSci Walburn Scholar: Conducted research on environmental sustainability and community safety.
• Ashoka U Scholar: Focused on the intersection of public health, community safety, and energy access.
• John J. Gearen Scholar: Awarded for academic distinction and leadership at the University of Saint Thomas.

• PFUND Scholar and Scholarship Chair, Summer 2019, Recognized for my advocacy in marginalized communities, particularly as a strong voice for underrepresented groups., Served as the Scholarship Chair, working directly with Aaron Zimmerman to oversee the scholarship program. I supported the PFUND community by selecting and mentoring future leaders committed to equity and social justice.
• University of Minnesota Children’s Hospital – Medical Research Scholar, Summer 2019, Collaborated with a team of scholars to investigate communication styles and written directives in hospital patient rooms across the Children’s wing., Analyzed how communication practices impacted patient outcomes, contributing to recommendations for improving patient care.
• United Hospital Volunteer, Summer 2018, Provided support to hospital staff and patients in various capacities, ensuring a compassionate, efficient healthcare environment.
• Youth Basketball Volunteer, Support my father’s volunteer youth basketball program, mentoring and guiding at-risk youth in the Minneapolis metro area.
• Cooking Classes Assistant, Assist my mother in teaching Ethiopian and Eritrean cooking classes for K-12 students and community members, fostering cross-cultural understanding.