Anne Ollen - Barnard College

Annie O. 2020 Picture .jpg

In an unprecedented and challenging year, I feel extremely grateful to be continuing my work at Blue State, a digital strategy and marketing company based out of Washington D.C. My team and I collaborate with progressive non-profits to execute successful fundraising and advocacy campaigns. This work was crucial in 2020 when our clients needed to raise money to help ensure that everyone has access to essential services, such as health care and safe housing, and that people were able to make their voices heard by casting their ballots in November. During a time of great hardship, I am once again thankful to be able to partner with such great organizations that are working tirelessly for families and communities across this country that are in need of support. I am also proud to have collaborated with my colleagues at Blue State to form a union this fall. After months of planning, we were formally recognized by company leadership in October, and are now in the process of negotiating our contract. Through this collective bargaining, we are hoping to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable work environment. Outside of work, I left Washington in the spring to move back to the Vineyard to be with my family during the pandemic. Throughout this unexpected time at home, I have explored new walking trails, tried countless vegan recipes, and read more books than ever before. In November, we also adopted a sweet puppy named Bowie who has added so much joy and love to our family. Though 2020 was not the year that I, or anyone, predicted, I am endlessly thankful to have spent this time at home and am hopeful for the year to come.