Tom comes to the Alliance with extensive experience serving in political and nonprofit communications roles at the federal and local government levels, in campaigns, and as an advisor to nonprofit organizations. Most recently, Tom spent four years as a communications and media advisor to national nonprofit advocacy organizations, working on a range of issues, including reducing gun violence, addressing human rights, protecting democracy, and alleviating poverty. Tom previously served as the Deputy Chief of Staff and Communications Director for a member of the District of Columbia Council, where he supported legislative initiatives on local issues. He also served as a communications official in the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in the press offices of two U.S. Senators, and on a presidential campaign in Indiana during the 2008 election cycle. He is a graduate of Oberlin College.
The Great Lakes have always been a part of Tom’s life, and he is excited to build connections with people across the region to broaden the reach of the Alliance’s efforts. He has happy childhood memories of fishing with his grandfather in Lake Erie and spending summers on the beach in Presque Isle State Park in Erie, PA. He is a resident of Chicago and enjoys walks along Lake Michigan with his dog.