Women of CPR Choose to Challenge

Change is a natural phenomenon, though it is often met with resistance and skepticism. Women, who are responsible for countless social, cultural, political, scientific, and economic achievements that have shaped the world, have stood in the face of such resistance, particularly when confronted with unequal opportunity and rights. 

International Women’s Day celebrates the changes made by women and calls for action to accelerate women’s equality. This year, International Women’s Day notes that a challenged world is an alert world, and from challenge comes change. 

At the Center for Progressive Reform, the women on our staff “choose to challenge” existing norms so that we may create a just America that works for all people and our planet. Below, our women staff describe what motivates them to work for all Americans.

Maggie Dewane, Digital Media Manager — My mother worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs for 35 years as a social worker to women veterans, who were and are often overlooked. I saw the difference she made and I wanted my life to be as impactful to those most vulnerable and voiceless. I'm most passionate about protecting the planet and creating a sustainable future in which all life may thrive in coexistence.

Catherine Jones, Operations and Finance Manager — Going to work with my mom when I was a child was very formative and very much shaped my work ethic. When I became a mother to school-aged children, it was important to me to contribute to society and lead as a strong example to my two daughters while also being very present in their lives. Working at CPR has afforded me the opportunity to do just that — I support the work of our organization to promote equitable policies, and I raised my daughters into young adults who have now forged their own paths. 

Darya Minovi, Policy Analyst — As a child of immigrants and a mom who started her own business when I was young, I've seen what's possible when all Americans (regardless of citizenship status and gender, among other things!) are given the opportunity to succeed. In my work as an environmental health researcher and advocate, I believe that only by identifying and addressing the barriers put in front of the most disenfranchised among us can we make progress.

Katlyn Schmitt, Policy Analyst — At a young age, I learned that women and children are disproportionately impacted from water-borne illnesses. Even then, I recognized our fundamental right to safe drinking water and have been a proud advocate for clean water since. 

Allison Stevens, Writer/Editor — As a resident of the DMV, I'm motivated by the energy and activism people bring to my adopted hometown (I'm a native Midwesterner) to build a better world. I'm inspired by the quiet work at the office, the loud protests on the streets, and the many other peaceful actions people take here to advance equity, promote health, and protect our environment.