Running Start

Interested in building your professional brand or learning how to use LinkedIn more effectively?
Join Running Start on June 10 for a virtual conversation featuring Running Start alum Wilsar F Johnson, political digital strategist, alongside Catlin O’Neill, Head of Public Policy & Economic Graph at LinkedIn. Together, they’ll share insights on branding, digital communications, and networking.
✨ DM us your questions for the speakers!
📅 June 10 | 5–6 PM ET
💻 Virtual
🔗 Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/jaVi3WZBSB-VEiWl3BwZ6w #/registration

⚖️ Interested in law school or wondering what you can do with a law degree?

Join Running Start on May 20 for a virtual panel featuring Kandis McClure, Policy Advisor at Akin, plus Running Start alums in the field Alexa Marsh, Ewurama Appiagyei-Dankah and Sophia Houdaigui, who will share their experiences navigating law school and careers in law.

Whether you’re planning your next step or simply exploring the possibilities, this conversation will offer real-world insight, practical advice, and inspiration.

✨ Bring your questions and connect with professionals who have been in your shoes.

📅 May 20 | 5–6 PM ET
🔗 Register here: bit.ly/RSlaw

⚖️ Thinking about law school? Curious where a law degree can take you?

Join Running Start for a virtual panel featuring women with law degrees working across different fields and industries. From public service to policy to private practice and beyond, hear honest advice, real career stories, and insights on navigating the legal world.
Whether you’re seriously considering law school or just exploring your options, this conversation is for you.

✨ Come with questions. Leave with connections + inspiration.

📅 May 20, 5-6pm ET
🔗 Register at: bit.ly/RSlaw

Running Start participants are making real impact in their communities!

This week, Addison Lendt, Emma DeGolier, Kaylee DeGolier, Savannah Frudd, and Meredith Lendt from Westfield, New York presented their 1st Amendment 1st Vote community action project to their Board of Education.

The group organized health and wellness initiatives at their school, including a hygiene closet and health and wellness day for middle and high school students. The team created a more comfortable and open environment to talk about mental health at their school.

The future of leadership is already here ✨

At our annual 1st Amendment 1st Vote Leadership Action Summit in Rochester, NY, young leaders came together for two powerful days of growth, connection, and inspiration.

120+ students. 11 schools. 20 women in government mentors. Countless moments of confidence, courage, and new perspective.

97% built connections with like-minded peers
95% found a role model
95% gained confidence in sharing their voice
80% now see themselves running for office

“I wanted to improve my public speaking and confidence, and I challenged myself more than I ever thought I could.”

We can’t wait to see what these changemakers do next. They are only getting started!

The last few months at Running Start have been a whirlwind—in the best way.

From PLEN, to partnering with The Links, Incorporated in Dayton at Central State University (led by the incredible Tasha Cole), to Elect Her at Central Connecticut State University with our amazing Chief of Staff Jess Kelly, to hosting such thoughtful and energizing Influencers Council events, it’s been a season full of connection, growth, and momentum.

Grateful for every student, partner, and leader who continues to show up and invest in the next generation. We’re just getting started.

One hour can change who you know—and what comes next.
Join us for Virtual Speed Networking on April 15 and connect with ambitious women across the country in a fun, fast-paced format.
No pressure, just real conversations and real connections.
5-6pm ET. Save your seat → https://bit.ly/4sVVGTC

30,000+ women leaders. One powerful network.
If you’re a Running Start alum, you’re already part of something bigger. Now we’re building the next step—and we want you in the room.
Join our Next Step Kickoff Networking Session and connect with young leaders across the community.
Thu, March 19 | 5–6 PM ET
Register at https://bit.ly/NextStepKickoff