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Matt Jewett: Child and Family Advocate Turning Experience into Action
By Aurelio Duarte-Encinas, 2008 Fellow
Location: Phoenix, Arizona
Program: 2008 Arizona Fellow
"CPL has given me a lot of connections, helped me focus on messaging and values and refine how I approach the campaign" |
CPL Fellowship alumnus Matt Jewett recently assumed a position on the Creighton Elementary District’s Governing Board.
Eager to cast his hat into the ring as a first-time candidate and catch the winds of progressive change, he is now running for the election that will help him remain on the seat for a full term. I recently had a conversation with Matt about his experience as a candidate and about CPL’s contributions to his development.
How will your progressive voice manifest itself as a governing board member?
I think, as progressives, we believe in opportunities for all children. That is how I will be using my voice. I will fight for increased opportunity for all children. We have many children who require us to make a special investment and I will make sure to do what I can to help all kids succeed.
What have you learned about running for office now that you are on the inside looking out?
I worked on a lot of campaigns before so I am pretty familiar with what to expect. However, first couple of weeks I thought I was crazy. Now things are fun and I am grateful for the opportunity to call the shots on my own campaign. Now having been on the School Board since last week, I enjoy the opportunity to make a difference.
How has your CPL experience prepared or empowered you in your endeavor?
CPL has given me a lot of connections, helped me focus on messaging and values and refine how I approach the campaign. It also benefits me in allowing me the opportunity to be of service for others with similar progressive values that wish to improve the way things are and be a leader in general.
More About Matt
Having earned his B.A. Degree in Political Science from the University of Arizona, today Matt serves as a Research Associate for Children’s Action Alliance, where he is responsible for collecting and analyzing data on the well being of Arizona's children and advocating for children to be a priority for our state and nation's decision makers.
Previously, Matt was a civil rights investigator with the Arizona Attorney General's Office, a government efficiency analyst for Governor Janet Napolitano, and worked on the staff of Congressman Ed Pastor of Phoenix and Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard of Los Angeles.
If you are interested in becoming a CPL Fellow in Arizona, the application process is now open.
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