Ryan Greenstein

What initially inspired you to pursue a career in public service or policy, and how did your time at the Trachtenberg School shape that path?

I was always attracted to the potential impact scale that policy work or advocacy could achieve when done properly. Trachtenberg helped me rethink how I approached advocacy, especially my use of data as a persuasive tool, and ultimately made me more effective in government affairs roles. 

What does being named a Trachtenberg Alumni Impact Honoree mean to you personally?

It’s an honor! Trachtenberg has produced a lot of leaders and being included as an Alumni Impact Honoree means quite a lot to me.

What accomplishment or project are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your work and career? 

I’ve had several roles that have focused on some aspect of public health that connected me with individuals directly impacted by a crisis. Whether that was losing a family member to a drowning, an overdose, or a mental health issue, I’ve been lucky to work with families interested in turning their grief into advocacy. Those stories haven’t always led to policy changes, but it’s been very special for me to be able to help those individuals channel their grief into advocacy either at the Capitol or in the community.

Who or what has most influenced your approach to public service or leadership, and why?

I was lucky to be exposed to a lot of different leadership styles during my time as the National Association of Attorneys General’s legislative director. Many of the association’s members at the time have since gone on to be Governors, Senators, Representatives or even the U.S. Attorney General. Having a close look at how different high-profile public servants treated constituents, their staff, and the association staff gave me different leadership models that guide how I operate professionally and treat others.