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Communications

2017 Lynch Scholarship Awarded to Alexandria Woodard

Senator Bernie Sanders (left) and Alli Woodard.
Dotty Lynch Scholar Alli Woodard, right, with Senator Bernie Sanders.

American University School of Communication Professor Dotty Lynch, a journalist and pollster who infused students with a love of politics and the political process, passed away in 2014. To honor her memory, Lynch's husband, Morgan Downey, along with a group of her many friends and colleagues established the Dotty Lynch Endowed Scholarship Fund.

Alexandria (Alli) Woodard is the third recipient of the Dotty Lynch scholarship, and she exemplifies Lynch's passion for politics, excellence and ethics. Woodard arrived to begin the M.A. program in Political Communication after graduating from Elmira College (NY) in just three years. Below, she shares a bit about her goals and background.

Studying at American University

"For as long as I can remember, I've had a passion for politics. Some of my most vivid childhood memories involve presidential elections, social studies class debates, and my overwhelming desire to spark local change in my community. At Elmira College, I became involved in College Democrats, Amnesty International, and several local political campaigns. Moving from a rural town in Maine to the nation's capital has been both overwhelming and inspiring."

Current Internship

"I am currently interning at Bluelight Strategies, a strategic communications firm that focuses on marketing, media relations, message development, branding, social media and crisis communications, and other public relations needs for progressive clients including Earthjustice and the One campaign."

Career Aspirations

"I hope to stay in DC after graduation and pursue a career as a press secretary or in a political campaign."

Hometown: Greene, Maine

Program: MA, Political Communication

Fun Fact: "I was in an all-female acapella group during college."

Make a gift to honor Professor Lynch's memory and support a deserving student.