Her Seat at the Table

WeLead at American University is a shatter-the-glass-ceiling in politics program dedicated to training and empowering women seeking to serve in political leadership positions by gaining the confidence and skills to run for office or serve in public policy.

With your help, we can ensure this program continues to empower the next generation of women leaders and ensure that political decision-making reflects the incredibly diverse voices of our nation!

Help ensure that more women have a seat at the tables where the most critical decisions are made.

Thank you so much for your support. Together, we will change the face of politics!

Devon Fuentes
Bailey Haines
Josselin Castillo
Sonia Norton

ABOUT THE TEAM

Devon Fuentes
Devon Fuentes holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology with a minor in Political Science from the University of Arkansas. Her academic journey and professional experiences reflect a deep commitment to research focused on justice, women’s rights, and social change. Currently, as a Senior Research Associate at a national public opinion polling firm, Devon applies her expertise in both qualitative and quantitative research methods to deliver high-quality, data-driven polling for political campaigns, advocacy organizations, labor unions, and nonprofits. Her work offers insights into campaign strategy, messaging, and public opinion trends. She is driven by a passion for community service, ensuring every voice is heard and uplifting and supporting those around her.

Bailey Haines
Bailey Haines earned a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education and Mathematics from Lesley University. During her time there, she began to learn about the mechanics of the education system and how its legislation and policies impacted educators, students, and families alike on a daily basis. This discovery prompted her passion for education policy and brought her to Washington, DC, to study for her Master’s degree in Education Policy and Leadership at American University. With her policy-informed lens in tow, Haines now teaches Algebra 1 in SE DC, where she is gaining the priceless educator perspective. She has a strong interest in civic engagement, particularly among young people and women, and aims to amplify the voices of her communities. With these themes in mind, she sees great value in female leadership in political spaces.

Josselin Castillo
Josselin Castillo has over a decade of federal and state legislative and political experience, focusing on health care, tax, immigration, and championing small businesses. Josselin served as the lead healthcare and immigration advocate for Americans for Prosperity and The LIBRE Initiative, where she developed federal advocacy strategies and implemented nationwide direct voter outreach and grassroots lobbying campaigns. Her expertise in healthcare and immigration policy and grassroots advocacy has made her a trusted advisor to lawmakers and industry leaders.

Josselin received her bachelor's degree from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and began her career at the Virginia State Legislature. Her experience extends to operating several family-owned small businesses and helping found several local non-profit organizations throughout her career, demonstrating her commitment to public service and advocacy.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Josselin remains dedicated to humanitarian causes. She and her family immigrated from Honduras in 2007 and have resided in Virginia.

Sonia Norton
Sonia Norton is an experienced policy professional, Fulbright Scholar, and convener. Currently serving as Director of Advocacy for No One Left Behind, Sonia brings significant Congressional experience having staffed members of the House Committees on Judiciary, Armed Services, Budget, and Ways and Means. Working to expand mentorship and community for women staffers, Sonia was elected to the Women's Congressional Staff Association leadership for three terms, including as Professional Development Co-Chair and as a member of the Executive Board. She is an expert in legislative strategy, stakeholder management, and community building and is dedicated to expanding access to mentorship and leadership opportunities for women at all levels of public service.