Chris Olsen-Phillips
Seattle
Summary
Policy and advocacy leader with 7+ years of experience advancing early learning and higher education policy in Washington State. Proven track record in coalition building, grassroots mobilization, and legislative strategy. Skilled in convening diverse stakeholders, facilitating collaborative processes, and advancing equity-centered policy solutions.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Associate Director
UW Impact
Seattle
07.2022 - Current
- Co-led legislative advocacy strategy, advancing state and federal policy and budget priorities through coordinated lobbying, communications, and grassroots mobilization
- Designed and executed large-scale advocacy campaigns mobilizing alumni and students statewide
- Created and lead District Dawgs, a statewide coalition-style advocacy network active in 37 of Washington’s 49 legislative districts, focused on sustained, relationship-based engagement with policymakers
- Facilitated advocacy trainings, developed briefing materials and resources, prepared stakeholders for effective legislative engagement
- Built and maintained relationships with community members, legislators, staff, university leadership, and partner organizations to align strategy and advance shared priorities
- Launched and managed UW Impact Student Advocates program, expanding engagement among students and fostering development of future advocates
Assistant Director
Master’s in Education Policy, University of Washington
Seattle
10.2021 - 07.2022
- Supported strategy and operations for graduate policy program, enhancing education systems and equity outcomes
- Advised students on policy pathways while fostering partnerships with community organizations to create applied learning opportunities
- Contributed to program development and stakeholder engagement, improving communications and collaboration
Project Manager
Cultivate Learning, University of Washington
Seattle
05.2019 - 10.2021
- Managed or co-lead multimillion-dollar early learning initiatives funded by the Gates and Bezos Family Foundations
- Managed project timelines, budgets, and funder communications while facilitating multi-stakeholder convenings
- Helped lead cross-functional teams to develop research-based training programs, digital tools, and policy resources for early learning systems
- Developed state-level frameworks and tools to guide early learning system improvement and expansion
- Built a coordinated partner network across agencies, nonprofits, and universities to support implementation and policy alignment
- Developed actionable policy recommendations and resources from research and data for stakeholders
Research Policy Analyst
Cultivate Learning, University of Washington
Seattle
08.2017 - 05.2019
- Conducted policy research and analysis on early learning systems and pre-K expansion to inform policy recommendations
- Led development of Implementation Development Map, a tool designed to outline the policy and pedagogical supports necessary for effective public pre-K systems.
- Authored reports and briefs for funders and partners; conducted stakeholder interviews and case study analysis to provide actionable insights
Research Intern
Center for Quality Early Learning
Seattle
02.2017 - 07.2017
- Analyzed statewide Early Achievers data to enhance coaching and training strategies
- Supported grant writing and researched equity and cultural competency in early learning to improve program effectiveness
- Conducted research to inform Seattle Preschool Program policies on suspension and expulsion practices
Lead Teacher
Nurturing Knowledge School
Seattle
06.2013 - 07.2017
- Managed classroom supporting diverse learners, including students with special needs and multilingual backgrounds, to promote individualized learning
- Developed and executed Reggio Emilia–inspired curriculum to foster engagement and learning in inclusive early learning environment
- Collaborated with families to track and communicate student development across key domains, enhancing family engagement and support
Education
Master’s in Education Policy -
University of Washington
Seattle, WA07-2022
Bachelor of Arts - English
Tufts University
Medford, MA06-2010
Skills
- Policy writing
- Advocacy strategy
- Coalition building
- Stakeholder engagement
- Campaign management
- Data analysis
- Project management
- Program development
- Public speaking
Timeline
Associate Director
UW Impact
07.2022 - Current
Assistant Director
Master’s in Education Policy, University of Washington
10.2021 - 07.2022
Project Manager
Cultivate Learning, University of Washington
05.2019 - 10.2021
Research Policy Analyst
Cultivate Learning, University of Washington
08.2017 - 05.2019
Research Intern
Center for Quality Early Learning
02.2017 - 07.2017
Lead Teacher
Nurturing Knowledge School
06.2013 - 07.2017
Master’s in Education Policy -
University of Washington
Bachelor of Arts - English
Tufts University