Michelle Waters
Ashburn,VA
Summary
A strategic legal and policy professional with over 18 years of experience in federal government affairs, specializing in legislative analysis, regulatory compliance, and program administration. Possesses a proven track record of monitoring and analyzing policy initiatives, building strong relationships with state and federal agencies, and providing high-level strategic advice to leadership. Eager to leverage a deep understanding of legislative processes and public policy to advance the government affairs strategy of a fast-growing, innovative brand.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Administrative Review Officer
United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service
07.2018 - Current
- Monitored, tracked, and analyzed the impact of legal and administrative decisions on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) programmatic operations to ensure regulatory compliance.
- Served as a key liaison and litigation project manager, coordinating with the Office of General Counsel on legal strategies for judicial appeals from around 200 SNAP retailers per year.
- Authored clear and concise administrative decisions regarding SNAP retailers, demonstrating excellent writing and research skills in a high-stakes regulatory environment.
- Initiated and supported cross-functional projects focused on policy development, strategic planning, and information systems updates impacting over 260 thousand SNAP retailers and over 41 million SNAP recipients.
- Mentored junior staff members, helping them develop their skills and advance in their careers.
Program Analyst
United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service
04.2007 - 07.2018
- Led state government affairs initiatives by serving as the primary liaison to State Agencies and the National Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) Association, representing the agency at meetings and on calls.
- Drafted and advocated for novel public policy positions by leading the development of federal regulations, Federal Register notices, and policy memoranda that adhered to statutory requirements for multiple nutrition assistance programs, including SNAP and CSFP.
- Analyzed program data and developed metrics to identify and implement efficiencies and ensure the integrity of a key federal program.
- Built strong relationships and provided expert oral and written responses to complex policy inquiries from key stakeholders, including Congress, state agencies, and other advocacy groups.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with diverse professionals, including legal counsel and economists, to manage and align policy priorities across a portfolio of federal programs.
Immigration and Family Law Attorney
The Law Offices of Irena I. Karpinski
01.2006 - 01.2007
- Argued cases in Federal court and drafted appeals, demonstrating persuasive communication skills and a strong command of legal processes.
Senior Legal Assistant to the Vice President and General Counsel
General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems
01.2002 - 01.2004
- Drafted, reviewed, and edited government contracts, demonstrating keen attention to detail and a practical understanding of legal frameworks.
Education
Juris Doctor -
The George Washington University Law School
Washington, DC05.2006
Bachelor of Arts - English
The University of Maryland
College Park, MD12.1998
Skills
- Public Policy & Government Relations: State & Local Legislative Processes, Legislative Analysis & Monitoring, Government Affairs Strategy, Stakeholder Engagement, Policy Development & Implementation, Regulatory Compliance
- Professional & Legal: Legal Research & Writing, Litigation Support, Strategic Planning, Project Management, Cross-Functional Collaboration, Advocacy & Persuasive Communication
- Technical: Legislative Tracking Database Management, Data Analysis, Microsoft Office Suite, Westlaw, LexisNexis
Awards
Received 10 performance-based awards for outstanding service over the past 5 years., Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Education Honor Roll of Academic Excellence., Professional Writing Program Contest Finalist in Technical Writing.
Timeline
Administrative Review Officer
United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service
07.2018 - Current
Program Analyst
United States Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Service
04.2007 - 07.2018
Immigration and Family Law Attorney
The Law Offices of Irena I. Karpinski
01.2006 - 01.2007
Senior Legal Assistant to the Vice President and General Counsel
General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems
01.2002 - 01.2004
Bachelor of Arts - English
The University of Maryland
Juris Doctor -
The George Washington University Law School
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