SYDNEY HEISE
Washington
Summary
Results-driven professional with a proven record of achieving high-impact outcomes in government, journalism, and advocacy. Skilled in strategic messaging, domestic policy, and communications, with expertise in legislative research, stakeholder engagement, and media strategy. Adept at leveraging analytical skills and innovative problem-solving to address complex challenges in fast-paced environments. Recognized for adaptability, goal orientation, and delivering measurable results across diverse issue areas.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Columnist, Editorial Board
GW Hatchet
Washington
09.2023 - Current
- Author 50+ articles, including monthly columns and weekly editorials, following standard publication procedures.
- Contribute to content generating 85k+ monthly views and 750k+ stories read annually/Optimized columns for search engines, ensuring higher visibility and reach across the digital landscape.
- Participate in weekly editorial board meetings to discuss campus and local issues, and publish articles that reflect diverse perspectives.
- Built relationships with Athletics Department, conducting interviews that provided unique insights into current events and trends.
Strategic Partnerships Intern
American Oversight
Washington
06.2025 - 08.2025
- Monitored internal communications and media coverage to compile weekly external partner roundup emails for 1,200+ recipients.
- Trained in FOIA, legal oversight, content strategy, and CRM tools, including Airtable.
- Directly supported partners in over 40 states by working on initiatives in voting rights, immigration, public records transparency, and government accountability through research and outreach.
Intern for Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY25)
U.S. House of Representatives
Washington
01.2025 - 05.2025
- Drafted and proposed legislation alongside Legislative Counsel for a pilot program testing alcohol detection systems to prevent impaired driving.
- Responded to 12,000+ correspondents via calls, opinion tracking, and CRM casework processing (Fireside).
- Researched, summarized, and prepared memos on relevant legislation (OBBB, Continuing Resolutions, etc.) for Member and legislative staff.
- Assisted in reviewing 50+ appropriations requests for national defense initiatives implemented into the country's budget.
Young Leader Summer Institute Fellow
Democracy House
Remote
06.2024 - 08.2024
- Gain training in research methodology, data verification, and Midwest Academy Strategy.
- Participate in workshops alongside over 120 fellow scholars with 21 global civic leaders, including Congressman Maxwell Frost, Van Jones, and David Hogg.
Local Courts Intern
Monroe County District Attorney's Office
Rochester
05.2023 - 08.2023
- Supported 27 Assistant District Attorneys in organizing case files and reviewing evidence across the county's town courts.
- Assisted in prosecuting 7,250+ cases, the largest caseload of all bureaus.
Engagement Intern
Monroe County Democratic Committee
Rochester
11.2022 - 05.2023
- Led phone banking and volunteer recruitment, boosting voter engagement by 15% in targeted districts.
- Coordinated campaign activities with 55+ local, state, and federal candidates.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Political Communication/Marketing
The George Washington University
Washington, DC09.2026
Skills
- Strategic planning and analysis
- Client relationship management
- Microsoft Office Suite
- Midwest Academy Strategy
- Canva (Graphic Design)
- Google Analytics (Data-Driven Marketing)
- WordPress (Search Engine Optimization)
- Premier Pro (Video Production)
Certification
- Journalism Associated Press Style Guidelines
- National Democratic Training Committee
Awards
- NYS Attorney General Triple C Award, New York State Attorney General's Office
- Young, Woman of Distinction, Rochester Chamber of Commerce
- Dr. Marlene Carselli Excellence in Communication Award, Rochester Area Community Foundation
- Youth Leadership Honoree, Senator Jeremy Cooney
Timeline
Strategic Partnerships Intern
American Oversight
06.2025 - 08.2025
Intern for Rep. Joe Morelle (D-NY25)
U.S. House of Representatives
01.2025 - 05.2025
Young Leader Summer Institute Fellow
Democracy House
06.2024 - 08.2024
Columnist, Editorial Board
GW Hatchet
09.2023 - Current
Local Courts Intern
Monroe County District Attorney's Office
05.2023 - 08.2023
Engagement Intern
Monroe County Democratic Committee
11.2022 - 05.2023
Bachelor of Arts - Political Communication/Marketing
The George Washington University
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