Trainees

From GrassrootsPedia

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Contents 1 Feb/Mar 2006 Inaugural NOI Training 1.1 Nathan Allen 1.2 Renna Alyassini 1.3 Biko Baker 1.4 Ralph Bernardo 1.5 Adrienne Maree Brown 1.6 Daniel Castleman 1.7 Joanna Choi 1.8 Ryan Clayton 1.9 Cammie Croft 1.10 Jose Antonio De La Luz 1.11 Sheri Divers 1.12 Danielle Doughman 1.13 Lola Elfman 1.14 Aliya Feldman 1.15 Mark Franaszek 1.16 Amanda Garces 1.17 Jason Gooljar 1.18 Joaquin Guerra 1.19 Joe Hammond 1.20 Ying-sun Ho 1.21 Weldon Kennedy 1.22 Ian Kim 1.23 Amy Lawton 1.24 Dana Leeper 1.25 Candace Lilyquist 1.26 Alfonso Nevarez 1.27 Laura Packard 1.28 Amber Pringnit 1.29 Dinica Quesada 1.30 Jus Ratnayakaman 1.31 Tammara Rosenleaf 1.32 Lenny Sapozhnikov 1.33 Lindsey Thieken 1.34 Peter Turner 1.35 Eric Van Horn 1.36 Kip Williams 1.37 Riche Zamor Jr 1.38 Elijah Zarlin 2 August 2006 Online Campaign Training 3 March 2007 Nonprofit Online Organizing Training 3.1 Mark Lotwis 3.2 Immanuel Herrmann 3.3 Ben Spears 3.4 Aasil Ahmad 3.5 Susanna Haas Lyons 3.6 Ben Wikler 3.7 Barry Childress 3.8 Chris Korzen 3.9 Mia Griswold 3.10 Tim Anderegg 3.11 Anne Havemann 3.12 Marla Bertagnolli 3.13 Debbie Weinstein 3.14 Marciela Donahue 3.15 Richelle Friedman 3.16 Liat Weingart 3.17 Clarissa Goodlett 3.18 Gabriel Rey-Goodlatte 3.19 Avni Vays 3.20 Doug Casler 3.21 Lisa Oswald 3.22 Riche Zamor 3.23 Scott Williams 3.24 Alexis Geslani 3.25 Jason Zanon 3.26 Amy Pritchard 3.27 Alan Septoff 3.28 Hayes Morehouse 3.29 Arthur Coulston 3.30 Mckenzie Lock 3.31 Liz Butler 3.32 Jessamyn Sabbag 3.33 Andrew Kohan 3.34 Richard Kim-Solloway 3.35 Liz Havstad 3.36 Trina Tocco 3.37 Mik Moore 3.38 Cecilie Surasky 3.39 Brandi Jones 3.40 Brian Hiatt 3.41 Carly Dobbins-Bucklad 3.42 Jayme Montgomery 3.43 Lorraine Bieber 3.44 Ngani Ndimbie 3.45 Daniel Kaufman 3.46 Justin Cole 3.47 Cherese N. Williams 3.48 Eric Oliver 3.49 Jacob Frimpong 3.50 Elizabeth Daise 3.51 Meaghan Lamarre 3.52 Jordan Kessler 3.53 Cory Liebmann 3.54 Joy Gibson 3.55 Kristin Settle 3.56 Andrea McGimsey 3.57 Charles Lenchner 3.58 John Bacino 3.59 Royelen Boykie 3.60 Andy Laken 3.61 Ryan Barolet-Fogarty 3.62 Cory Lowe 3.63 Jonathan Hutson 3.64 Bob Bingaman 3.65 James Bradbury 3.66 Mark Bettinger 3.67 Deanna Murshed 3.68 Michael Connery 3.69 Stewart Snider 3.70 Ben Kroetz 3.71 Brian Sant 3.72 James Dubick 3.73 Susan Chenelle 3.74 Reggie Moore 3.75 Ann Randall 3.76 Agata Kamler 3.77 Lauren Alfrey 3.78 Matisse Bustos 3.79 H Paul Johnson 3.80 Sarah Buecher 3.81 Julia Rosen 4 July 2007 NOI Summer Boot Camp Training 4.1 Greg Buckland 4.2 Christopher Burks 4.3 Cerron Cade 4.4 Cheryl Catlin 4.5 Nithin Coca 4.6 Allen Combs 4.7 Sean Conway 4.8 Will Cubbison 4.9 Demond Drummer 4.10 Stephen Ekema-Agbaw 4.11 Jamie Epstein 4.12 Celeste Faison 4.13 Sarah Farhadian 4.14 Mark Gaffney 4.15 Sean Gallegos 4.16 Anne Gepford 4.17 Julielyn Gibbons 4.18 Apollo Gonzales 4.19 Matt Gross 4.20 Margaret Hansbrough 4.21 Elizabeth Heavener 4.22 Janine Heiser 4.23 Betsy Hoover 4.24 Rebecca Hyman 4.25 Jeremy Jansen 4.26 Cory Kalanick 4.27 Erin Kenzie 4.28 Kenny Ketner 4.29 Darci Larsen 4.30 Matt Latham 4.31 Ali Latifi 4.32 Samantha MacDonald 4.33 Ian Magruder 4.34 Nirmal Mankani 4.35 Jemma McPherson 4.36 Jonathan Mendelson 4.37 Annette Metten 4.38 Eric Mosinger 4.39 Neil Nagraj 4.40 Harry Neack 4.41 Brenna Norton 4.42 Clayton Ollarvia 4.43 Ute Pannen 4.44 Nikki Paschal 4.45 Jason Paul 4.46 Cate Rauseo 4.47 Jerimee Richir 4.48 Ryan Roach 4.49 Patrick Schmitt 4.50 Kyle Stoneman 4.51 Derek Stromas 4.52 Zo Tobi 4.53 Nicole Trudell 4.54 Earl Watson 4.55 Greg Williams 4.56 Barak Wouk 4.57 Edwin Zambrano 4.58 Timothy Zeiser

Feb/Mar 2006 Inaugural NOI Training

Nathan Allen

• Where I am now is: I work for the members of the National Education Association.
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Renna Alyassini

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Biko Baker

• Where I am now is: League of Independent Voters
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Ralph Bernardo

• Where I am now is: Managing Editor, The Disinformation Company, New York, NY
• What I got from NOI was: a nuanced understanding of how online media can facilitate communication with your varied interest groups and support offline action
• Comments: NOI was an amazing experience for someone working as an independent media professional. I learned tools and techniques that I will forever use in my professional life to communicate with a progressive, critically minded audience. Thanks NOI for the incredible opportunity.

Adrienne Maree Brown

• Where I am now is: Executive Director of the Rukus Society
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Daniel Castleman

• Where I am now is: America Votes
• What I got from NOI was: A great job, lots of great knowledge about campaigns, and a chance to meet some great people.
• Comments: Hurray for NOI!

Joanna Choi

• Where I am now is: National Education Association
• What I got from NOI was: new ideas for strategizing around online organizing

Ryan Clayton

• Where I am now is: On the campaign trail in South Jersey
• What I got from NOI was: NOI gave us the formal training to move the numbers, create momentum, and raise the funds. The knowledge I gained from NOI prepared me for the professional environment of political campaigns, and this experience has inspired me to continue on in this crazy, fast-paced, 24/7 world of political action. In addition to meeting high-level political operatives and being trained by the best in the business, we also formed a strong network of on-line/grass-roots activists and gained friendships that will last a lifetime. If you don't believe a week in Washington can change the world, then you need to sit in on an NOI training - you'll see a group of committed, progressive, and passionate people learning the tools needed to move our country and our world in a better direction.

• Comments: Thanks again to the NOI folks. Appreciate everything you've done for us.

Cammie Croft

• Where I am now is: Rapid Response Director at Americans Against Escalation in Iraq, the campaign to end the war in Iraq
• What I got from NOI was: A whole new skill-set of organizing, an amazing job and great relationships with fellow political-nerds
• Comments: The best training ever! It literally changed my life. I could seriously do a whole, cheesey infomercial on why NOI is so rad. Just sign me up!

Jose Antonio De La Luz

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Sheri Divers

• Where I am now is: I'm the Communications Director at Democracy for America. Founded by Governor Howard Dean in 2004, Democracy for America is a political action committee dedicated to campaign training, grassroots activism and supporting progressive candidates with a backbone at all levels of government — from the school board to the presidency. DFA is empowering everyday Americans to reform their political system.

• What I got from NOI was: A comprehensive view of the progressive infrastructure, online organizing and grassroots activism. I also appreciated the vital networking opportunities, resume critique and job hunting opportunities. NOI provided amazing campaign training and allowed me to develop the essential relationships that helped me enter into progressive public relations professionally.

• Comments: NOI offers a rare opportunity to enter into the progressive infrastructure with plenty of support and guidance. It changed my life!

Danielle Doughman

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Lola Elfman

• Where I am now is: M+R Strategic Services
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Aliya Feldman

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Mark Franaszek

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Amanda Garces

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Jason Gooljar

• Where I am now is: I am currently the web developer for the Earth Day Network.
• What I got from NOI was: I gained an immense amount of knowledge from the first NOI training that was ever held in 2006. I really got to learn about constituent relationship management software and content management system software. I learned how to better work with a campaign team under stressful situations that arise during a campaign. I also picked up a lot of knowledge on your traditional political organizing and campaign strategy. Last but not least it was tremendously gratifying to become part of a network that I credit with ultimately helping me arrive to work in our nation's capitol.
• Comments: This is a non-profit that is really needed to help the rising generation of young progressive activists like myself grow. It will ensure a brighter future for us all.

Joaquin Guerra

• Where I am now is: Richardson 2008 Campaign
• What I got from NOI was: Insight and best practices from many of the innovators of political online organizing, communications,and online to off-line action.
• Comments: If it wasn't for NOI, I wouldn't have the skill set that I have now. NOI is an important asset to the Progressive Movement and it's importance can only be placed into perspective if you compare Progressives Online dominance to that of Conservative talk radio, in the 90's. NOI is at the forefront of training and plugging in the next generation of Progressive activists and organizers.

Joe Hammond

• Where I am now is: I work for the members of the National Education Association.
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Ying-sun Ho

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Weldon Kennedy

• Where I am now is: The ONE Campaign
• What I got from NOI was: A deep understanding of online organizing and communications, job placement and career advice, and some good buddies.
• Comments: NOI was the most important week of my professional life.

Ian Kim

• Where I am now is: on sabbatical from the Ella Baker Center
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Amy Lawton

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Dana Leeper

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Candace Lilyquist

• Where I am now is: I work in the Constituent Relations Department of the National Education Association (NEA).
• What I got from NOI was: NOI offered an opportunity to learn about the latest technological tools to communicate with the members and staff that I work with in the Education Association. I share the tools, skills and knowledge at every opportunity. Additionally, I was able to review political organizing skills that I haven't used in awhile.
• Comments: NOI is cutting edge and will empower attendees to work for a better more educated and peaceful world for all.

Alfonso Nevarez

• Where I am now is: Research Associate - Data Analysis, AFL-CIO Collective Bargaining Department
• What I got from NOI was: Sound political foundation tailored to enhance my technical skills.
• Comments: Prior to acquiring my current position, I had the opportunity to perform data analysis for the AFL-CIO's Labor 2006 campaign, and look forward to participating in the 2008 labor program. If not for NOI, it is highly doubtful that I would find myself in Washington DC, or seriously involved in national politics for that matter.

Laura Packard

• Where I am now is: Consulting for the Coalition for Progress and Blogpac
• What I got from NOI was: The skills, knowledge and network to be an effective online organizer
• Comments: NOI is one of the best training opportunities I've ever had!

Amber Pringnit

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Dinica Quesada

• Where I am now is: I work in the communications department of the Ohio Education Association
• What I got from NOI was: I learned a lot.
• Comments:

Jus Ratnayakaman

• Where I am now is: I work for the members of the National Education Association.
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Tammara Rosenleaf

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Lenny Sapozhnikov

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Lindsey Thieken

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Peter Turner

• Where I am now is: Finishing up my Ph.D. at Princeton University, with an eager eye on a professional move into progressive politics
• What I got from NOI was: An excellent introduction to several aspects of political organizing and communicating. A boatload of very practical knowledge. A sense of the extraordinary possibilities for promoting political and social change (it's easy!); and, at the same time, a good look at the complexities and challenges of doing it well (it's hard). A superlative network of potential mentors, allies, and contacts. Acquaintanceship with a bunch of good folk.
• Comments: Awesome. thumbsup.gif

Eric Van Horn

• Where I am now is: Field Organizer, Nebraska Democratic Party (DNC State Partnership Staff in Lincoln, NE)
• What I got from NOI was: I got a sense of how to use my abilities to make a difference in political campaigns as well as a sense of confidence that I could use these tools effectively.
• Comments:

Kip Williams

• Where I am now is: California Outreach and Support Manager, DemocracyInAction
• What I got from NOI was: A crash course in CRM and CMS, a network of friends and resources, and a job as the Online and Technology Coordinator for the League of Young Voters.
• Comments:

Riche Zamor Jr

• Where I am now is: Online Strategy Consultant, Community IT Innovators
• What I got from NOI was: Good friends, good times, a wealth of contacts and of course a top notch education in online organizing.
• Comments: You won't find a better training in the NPO and Political sector.

Elijah Zarlin

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

August 2006 Online Campaign Training

March 2007 Nonprofit Online Organizing Training

Mark Lotwis

• I work at: 21st Century Democrats
• My job is: Executive Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Immanuel Herrmann

• I work at: ACLU
• My job is: Internet Organizer
• What I got from NOI was:

Ben Spears

• I work at: ACORN Political Operations
• My job is: Assistant at the Strategic Writing and Research Department
• What I got from NOI was: information and resources that fed the blogging strategy of our partners, Project Vote.

Aasil Ahmad

• I work at: AIC Associates
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Susanna Haas Lyons

• I work at: AmericaSpeaks
• My job is: Public Engagment Associate
• What I got from NOI was:

Ben Wikler

• I work at: Avaaz.org, MoveOn's global sister group
• My job is: Campaign Director
• What I got from NOI was: The NOI provided invaluable set of nuts-and-bolts tools and skills, paired with the underlying principles to use them effectively. The Avaaz team still regularly reviews my notes from the training, and I send them to new staff. NOI was distinguished by its emphasis on learning what actually works--the tried and true, not the new and untested. The NOI was, without question, the most valuable event of its kind--for our whole organization--that any of us have attended to date.

Barry Childress

• I work at: Baltimore Spokes
• My job is: Programmer and Bicycle Advocate
• What I got from NOI was:

Chris Korzen

• I work at: Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good
• My job is: Communications Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Mia Griswold

• I work at: Center for American Progress
• My job is: Database and Outreach Assistant
• What I got from NOI was:

Tim Anderegg

• I work at: Center for Community Change
• My job is: CVP Program Associate
• What I got from NOI was:

Anne Havemann

• I work at: Chesapeake Climate Action Network
• My job is: Communications Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Marla Bertagnolli

• I work at: CIVIC - Campaign for Innocent Victims in Conflict
• My job is: Associate Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Debbie Weinstein

• I work at: Coalition on Human Needs
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Marciela Donahue

• I work at: Coalition on Human Needs
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Richelle Friedman

• I work at: Coalition on Human Needs
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Liat Weingart

• I work at: Color of Change
• My job is: organizer, operations officer
• What I got from NOI was:

Clarissa Goodlett

• I work at: ColorofChange.org
• My job is: Campaign Staff
• What I got from NOI was:

Gabriel Rey-Goodlatte

• I work at: ColorOfChange.org
• My job is: Organizer
• What I got from NOI was:

Avni Vays

• I work at: Community IT Innovators
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Doug Casler

• I work at: Community IT Innovators
• My job is: Non-profit consultant
• What I got from NOI was:

Lisa Oswald

• I work at: Community IT Innovators
• My job is: Associate Consultant
• What I got from NOI was:

Riche Zamor

• I work at: Community IT Innovators
• My job is: Associate Consultant
• What I got from NOI was:

Scott Williams

• I work at: Community IT Innovators
• My job is: Non-profit consultant
• What I got from NOI was:

Alexis Geslani

• I work at: Compumentor
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Jason Zanon

• I work at: DemocracyInAction.org
• My job is: Outreach & Development
• What I got from NOI was:

Amy Pritchard

• I work at: Democratic Gain
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Alan Septoff

• I work at: Earthworks Action
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Hayes Morehouse

• I work at: Ella Baker Center for Human Rights
• My job is: Director of Information Technology
• What I got from NOI was:

Arthur Coulston

• I work at: Energy Action Coalition
• My job is: Digital Organizer
• What I got from NOI was: NOI Training really helped me to set clear priorities in my organizations online strategy. Often we have way too much going on. The trainings focused on the fundamentals of online organizing and helped me to understand the most important things that we needed to get done. NOI also greatly boosted my confidence with online communications. Writing and sending mass emails can be a stressful and time consuming task, getting to learn from the experts like MoveOn, Avazz and others helped to give me confidence in our strategy and messaging.

Mckenzie Lock

• I work at: Women's Edge Coalition
• My job is: Communications Manager
• What I got from NOI was: Wonderful, wonderful speakers and advice. I met so many people through NOI who continue to be valuable information and trend-sharing resources. I also got a good sense of the "roadmap" of online organizing resources - where to look for what when questions come up in my organization. On a side note, the conference was v. well organized, on-time, and efficient.

Liz Butler

• I work at: ForestEthics
• My job is: Organizing Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Jessamyn Sabbag

• I work at: Future 5000
• My job is: Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Andrew Kohan

• I work at: Global Justice
• My job is: Information Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was:

Richard Kim-Solloway

• I work at: The Government Accountability Project [1]
• My job is: Director of Individual Giving
• What I got from NOI was: a lot of great information and specific tasks that I was able to implement right away and very good context for planning long term strategies for increasing our online organizing and fundraising capabilities. I have used the skills that I learned at the training to launch an online sustainer appeal [2] and to publicize a series of donor conference calls on our work and to send donors and friends links to the online recordings of these [3]. We are also working with our mail and phone vendors to integrate online messaging and giving with our other fundraising channels. Great training! If you didn't train with the NOI yet, you're a fool.

Liz Havstad

• I work at: Hip Hop Caucus
• My job is: Chief of Staff
• What I got from NOI was: A great framework on how to think about linking our grassroots organizing work to online communications strategies. It was also a great place to network. I met a lot of people who have proven to be great allies.

Trina Tocco

• I work at: International Labor Rights Forum
• My job is: Campaigns Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was: a really useful rubric that describes what sorts of software and programs are most useful given certain budgetary restrictions for online organizing.

Mik Moore

• I work at: Jewish Funds for Justice
• My job is: Director of Communications & Public Policy
• What I got from NOI was:

Cecilie Surasky

• I work at: Jewish Voice for Peace
• My job is: Director of Communications
• What I got from NOI was:

Brandi Jones

• I work at: League of Young Voters
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Brian Hiatt

• I work at: League of Young Voters
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Carly Dobbins-Bucklad

• I work at: PA League of Young Voters
• My job is: Director of Operations (formerly I was the New Media Coordinator)
• What I got from NOI was: the first serious, comprehensive look at what was out there for online activism and what was being done with the tools. I had formerly only given a passing thought about online fundraising, and now we are including it as a major part of our financial plan. I especially benefitted from the option to select which breakout session would be of the most use to me and then learn about that topic in a small group setting with an expert. I really enjoyed hearing the success stories of other groups, because they not only inspired me to the work but also got my creative juices flowing about what my organization could do. Ideas for video editing, for online fundraising, and social networking site maximization were really valuable, especially since they were coupled with practical how-to advice. This was also the only time I have met my counterparts in the other local affiliates of my organization, and it was great to get to brainstorm together. In addition, the timing, structure, and food were all excellent and I was impressed by how well-run NOI was; it is the best conference I've been to to date.

Jayme Montgomery

• I work at: League of Young Voters
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Lorraine Bieber

• I work at: League of Young Voters & Progress Ohio Education Fund
• My job is: Social Networking Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was: NOI got me thinking in 2.0 both in terms of perspective/approach and the nuts-and-bolts techniques to make it happen. The time I spent in the one-on-one session with a trainer has since proven to be the most valuable 2-3 hours I've ever spent at any conference or seminar. Follow-up has been comprehensive - NOI has created a community that continues to be a fabulous resource.

Ngani Ndimbie

• I work at: League of Young Voters
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Daniel Kaufman

• I work at: Maryland State Teachers Assn
• My job is: Communications director
• What I got from NOI was:

Justin Cole

• I work at: Media Matters for America
• My job is: Online Outreach Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was:

Cherese N. Williams

• I work at: NAACP
• My job is: National Civic Engagement Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was:

Eric Oliver

• I work at: NAACP
• My job is: IT Web Developer
• What I got from NOI was:

Jacob Frimpong

• I work at: NAACP
• My job is: Director of IT
• What I got from NOI was:

Elizabeth Daise

• I work at: National Education Association
• My job is: Organizational Specialist, Interim Southeast Regional Director
• What I got from NOI was: Ideas and real world advice on using online resources to engage our members. NEA has benefited from NOI trainers, resources, and networks.

Meaghan Lamarre

• I work at: National Organization for Women
• My job is: Internet Communications Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was: Omg! Too much to list! What it boils down to mostly was a whole lot of best practices for Internet organizing. Also got a bit of a reality check for where we need to be going as well as a bit reassurance that we're doing a lot of things right. It was great to share experiences and lessons learned. I left with a healthy dose of motivation to keep pushing forward in online communications!

Jordan Kessler

• I work at: NRDC (National Resources Defense Council)
• My job is:
• What I got from NOI was:

Cory Liebmann

• I work at: One Wisconsin NOW
• My job is: Blog Editor/Netroots Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was:

Joy Gibson

• I work at: One Wisconsin NOW
• My job is: Development Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Kristin Settle

• I work at: One Wisconsin NOW
• My job is: Policy and Research Analyst
• What I got from NOI was: A better understanding of how to use the internet and web tools to forward our mission and new ideas for public policy campaigns.

Andrea McGimsey

• I work at: Piedmont Environmental Council
• My job is: campaign director
• What I got from NOI was:

Charles Lenchner

• I work at: Democracy In Action http://www.democracyinaction.org
• My job is: New York Outreach and Support Manager
• What I got from NOI was: Understanding the wide variety of tools out there, and being exposed to winning campaign ideas.

John Bacino

• I work at: Progressive States Network
• My job is: Communications Associate
• What I got from NOI was:A wealth of both technical detail and strategic insight.

Royelen Boykie

• I work at: Public Citizen
• My job is: Manager of Online Initiat
• What I got from NOI was a networking bonanza and the opportunity to hear the latest and greatest on what works for advocacy organizations and campaigns.

Andy Laken

• I work at: Quixote Center
• My job is: Technology Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Ryan Barolet-Fogarty

• I work at: Quixote Center
• My job is: Technology Co-Director
• What I got from NOI was:
  • A sense of where to go to keep up with the latest developments in the non-profit and political world.
  • A morale boost when I realized I was a part of a broader community working for progressive social change.
  • Some basic training that allowed me to get off and running in the right direction rather that paralyzed by uncertainty as to whether I was missing some vital secret.
  • A group of new friends.

Cory Lowe

• I work at: Rocky Mountain Institute
• My job is: Media and Outreach Specialist
• What I got from NOI was:

Jonathan Hutson

• I work at: Rocky Mountain Institute
• My job is: Communications Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Bob Bingaman

• I work at: Sierra Club
• My job is: National Field Director
• What I got from NOI was:

James Bradbury

• I work at: Sierra Club
• My job is: web producer
• What I got from NOI was:

Mark Bettinger

• I work at: Sierra Club
• My job is: NE Regional Staff Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Deanna Murshed

• I work at: Sojourners/Call to Renewal
• My job is: Dir of Integrated Marketing
• What I got from NOI was:

Michael Connery

• I work at: Future Majority (www.futuremajority.com)
• My job is: Editor/Blogger
• What I got from NOI was: Incredible connections with the people working in my field, and formalized training in a number of areas in which I was previously "self taught," including measuring growth and success in online advocacy campaigns, and best practices for blogging and blogger outreach.

Stewart Snider

• I work at: True Courage Action Network
• My job is: Field Director
• What I got from NOI was: How to create an effective message and the importance of authenticity.

Ben Kroetz

• I work at: True Majority
• My job is: Field Director/Online Organizer
• What I got from NOI was: Individual attention and first-hand knowledge from some of the best people in the profession.

Brian Sant

• I work at: True Majority
• My job is: Online Organizer
• What I got from NOI was:

James Dubick

• I work at: The Student PIRGs
• My job is: Internet Director
• What I got from NOI was: A chance to meet great people working in the field, build up my skills, and learn about some exciting projects being worked on by other groups.

Susan Chenelle

• I work at: United for Peace and Justice
• My job is: Internet Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was:

Reggie Moore

• I work at: Urban Underground
• My job is: Executive Director
• What I got from NOI was: NOI gave Urban Underground an opportunity to share and explore cutting edge strategies for using technology for mobilizing youth and advancing the social justice movement. It was the first opportunity where I was able to learn how technology has evolved over the past decade and how it has been effective in moving people and shaping ideas. "Whether you use technology or not, technology is always using you."

Ann Randall

• I work at: Washington Education Association
• My job is: Labor Relations (UniServ Representative)
• What I got from NOI was:

Agata Kamler

• I work at: Watershed
• My job is: Account Executive
• What I got from NOI was:

Lauren Alfrey

• I work at: Watershed Company
• My job is: Account Executive
• What I got from NOI was:

Matisse Bustos

• I work at: WITNESS
• My job is: Communications & Outreach Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was: some great networking opportunities with nationally- and locally-based progressive groups doing really innovative work online to get their bases of activists and community members galvanized to make some noise. I blogged about my experience and the highlights from the training here: http://www.witness.org/vhblog/2007/03/its_our_defining_moment_noi_on.html. I was intrigued by the notion that this is possibly a "new progressive era" (Peter Lymen of the New Politics Institute) and that a significant part of that is due to quickly-moving developments in technology (that's only part of the picture). Of course this rings true for us here at WITNESS - a human rights organization based on the notion that smart use of technology and video can be vital tools for campaigns to create positive, lasting social change.

H Paul Johnson

• I work at: Working Assets
• My job is: Marketing Director
• What I got from NOI was:

Sarah Buecher

• I work at: Working Assets
• My job is: Citizen Action Manager
• What I got from NOI was: Best practices for everything online. In depth look at web 2.0 campaign work.

Julia Rosen

• I work at: Working Californians
• My job is: Online Organizing
• What I got from NOI was:

July 2007 NOI Summer Boot Camp Training

Greg Buckland

• Where I am now is: Just joined Obama for America in New Hampshire. Looking forward to starting.
• What I got from NOI was: A boatload of useful knowledge and skills, contacts with other progressive activists, and more than anything inspiration to get out there and work for a better world.
• Comments: My NOI training was an excellent experience. There's nothing progressives should be doing more than training activists with the best technology and the brightest, most inspiring figures in the field... The 2007 NOI Summer Bootcamp training was a landmark event for me. It re-ignited my passion to make the world a radically better place and gave some of the tools, perspective, and connections to put that passion to work. The top-notch trainers were smart, experienced, and dedicated. Some were seasoned experts and others innovative newcomers. All brought helpful perspective and insight to bear on some of the challenges facing the left today. I already have at least five job prospects either directly or indirectly from the training. I'm looking forward to the continued sharing, support, and fellowship of the NOI network as I move into getting on the ground and doing some of the hard work ahead.

Christopher Burks

• Where I am now is: University of Arkansas Law School
• What I got from NOI was:A wealth of experience in progressive online organizing and communication.
• Comments: NOI did much more than impart me with the knowledge and tools to help build a sustainable progressive infrastructure. NOI engaged my passsion for changing our country and reminded me of how everyone can serve a greater cause than themselves.

Cerron Cade

• Where I am now is: Delaware Democratic party, Regional Field Director for the northern districts
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: At the NOI campaign bootcamp I met brilliant people from different backgrounds with the same interests. It was a Republican nightmare.

Cheryl Catlin

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: It gave me an in-depth look and understanding of what it takes to run a campaign effectively and smart. It allowed me the opportunity to see the practical application of new media and technologies and how they are applied to campaigns. I got an inside look that I would have never gotten otherwise...plus an understanding of how my skill set and talents could fit into the larger scheme of things.

Nithin Coca

• Where I am now is: Iraq Summer, Harrisburg, PA
• What I got from NOI was: The idea that technology and the internet can be used as organizing tools that bring people together to create social change.
• Comments: The training was the first time that I ever felt like I was a real part of the Progressive movement, and that alone is a huge benefit to me. I know longer feel like a cog beating on the door of the machine but an integral part of the movement to change America. Not to mention all the people that I met, all the knowledge and skills I learned, I really feel that now, I can make a difference!

Allen Combs

• Where I am now is: 21st Century Democrats PAC
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: I think it will make me more attractive to employers and I learned a lot of thing I can use in the future.

Sean Conway

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Will Cubbison

• Where I am now is: Volunteer Coordinator, Manchester, NH, John Edwards for President
• What I got from NOI was: First and foremost, the job. Second, new friends and contacts. Third, a much better understanding of how to integrate technology with every aspect of the campaign.

Demond Drummer

• Where I am now is: Obama Campaign (SC)
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: In order to bring about positive, progressive change, one must be an effective organizer. NOI not only gave me the tools to become an effective organizer, but opened up a world of career opportunities to be the change I wish to see.

Stephen Ekema-Agbaw

• Where I am now is: Obama Campaign (SC) Field Organizer Charleston Office
• What I got from NOI was: An understanding of what goes into galvanizing massive groups of people for a common goal or purpose. NOI gave me the tools for what I have termed, "movement building." I met many great people from diverse backgrounds, who all brought something different to the table. I was fortunate enough to be able to interact with and learn from all of these highly intelligent individuals and I know I will be in contact with them in the future.

Jamie Epstein

• Where I am now is: Finishing my BA at the University of Kansas (graduate in Dec. '07)
• What I got from NOI was: Connections with some wonderful progressive minds, and possible connections for jobs upon graduation
• Comments: NOI was one of the best experiences I've had. Since I've been home, I have been looking for future applicants from Kansas, so that this state's progressives will consider staying to turn KS blue.

Celeste Faison

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Sarah Farhadian

• Where I am now is: OMP
• What I got from NOI was: A better understanding of what I wanted my career to be and marketable skills to pursue that career. I learned in one week everything I needed to know to attain my current job. I love what I am doing now (copywriting for emails and direct mail) and if it was possible to do it for free every day, I would!
• Comments: NOI has helped me realize that my general organizing skills can be translated into online organizing skills, despite my lack of HTML literacy. Since completing NOI, I have been invited to 4 interviews, specifically because I had participated in the NOI training. Clearly, NOI is known to be a thorough educational experience not only by potential participants, but also by employers.

Mark Gaffney

• Where I am now is: The Watershed Company -- Account Coordinator
• What I got from NOI was: Before my NOI training, I found it very difficult to get in touch with potential employers. Since the NOI training, I have made contact with dozens of employers, interviewed with many, and received job offers from over five of them-- and it has only been six weeks since the NOI training!
• Comments: The NOI training was the single most-important week of my professional development in my life. Although I have attended many other trainings and possess real-life experience on campaigns, the NOI training reshaped the way I think about organizing while helping me build one of the strongest professional networks anybody could ask for.
• I was told that NOI could help me get a job in politics. The day after I left the training, I got my first offer from a major campaign. I couldn't be happier with the outcome.

Sean Gallegos

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: The New Organizing Institute literally touched on every major issue facing this great nation, and then gave you the tools to go out and fix them.

Anne Gepford

• Where I am now is: law student at the University of Kansas
• What I got from NOI was: NOI inspired me to realize the potential of grassroots and online organizing in the realm of progressive politics. The trainers and trainees were passionate leaders in their fields, creating an atmosphere that encouraged the sharing of ideas. I left boot camp with a new network of friends, a renewed sense of the progressive movement and the belief that each and every trainee will make a difference in this world.
• Comments: NOI was one of the most incredibly influential experiences of my life. Not only did I have the chance to meet some of the most amazing people at the top of their field, I caught a glimpse of the people that will be there in five or ten years. I know that the friendships I made during that one week will last for a lifetime. It's amazing what can be accomplished when 60 progressives gather together. I found myself hopeful, energetic and ready to take on the world when I left Washington, D.C. -- a feeling that had been lacking in my life for some time. My only regret from the entire week is that I did not have more time to spend with these people, and that I actually had to get at least four hours of sleep each night!

Julielyn Gibbons

• Where I am now is: Internet Outreach Director, Michigan Democratic Party and Private Online Outreach/Organizing Consultant
• What I got from NOI was: A validation of all the many things I knew about the importance of progressive online organizing and strategy. The information and access given to us by the top people in these fields and several others (online fundraising, viral media, social networking, etc) was priceless and is something I can use for years to come. Another valuable asset from this training is the many networking opportunities that only add to my worth as a consultant and politcal player.
• Comments: I highly encourage anyone who's serious about becoming a top player in the field of progressive organizing and outreach to tap into NOI. There's no way to put a price on the education and opportunities that NOI affords its trainees.
• NOI allowed me to validate and put a worth to the work that I had been doing as a volunteer for so long. It showed me that I had a lot to offer progressive campaigns and candidates in this emerging field as a real trailblazer.

Apollo Gonzales

• Where I am now is: Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) - Manager of NetRoots Campaign Strategy
• What I got from NOI was: Other than an absolutely amazing job and a renewed respect for the power of coffee? NOI was instrumental in introducing me to a community of people who believe that organizing people around issues and campaigns is exciting and worth learning how to do the right way. I got inspired. I got an opportunity to meet people with amazing skills and learn from them. I got to learn on the ground skills and on the 'nets skills. I got to crowdsource my ideas, and I got to sit with others who wanted to share theirs.
• Comments: This is a phenominal organization, and it's continued existance is critical to creating a new generation of organizers, and educating a world of existing organizers in relevant ways. I am forever indebted to the crew who made the bootcamp possible.

Matt Gross

• Where I am now is: I am currently a PhD student in Political Science at the University of Tennessee. Recently, I was elected Chairman of my county’s Democratic Party, and I am currently the youngest Democratic chairman in the state of Tennessee.
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Margaret Hansbrough

• Where I am now : I am a field intern for Barack Obama's presidential campaign in Ottumwa, Iowa.
• What I got from NOI was: A great sense of how new and old organizing tools can fit together to reach more people and empower more people in the process. I also gained a tremendous network of friends and allies in progressive politics that I know I will need to reach out to and I hope that they can count on me as well in the future. I have new confidence in the ability of my generation to really be the change that we want to see and restore integrity to our democracy.
• Comments: This was definitely the most important professional experience I have had in my young life and I can't express enough just how grateful I am to all the trainers and donors who made it happen. That kind of personal investment in the future of progressive politics and progressive uses of techology shows that people who support NOI believe deeply in what they do.

Elizabeth Heavener

• Where I am now is: Brookhaven Democrats (NY)
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: It was a privilege to be surrounded by peers who like me, are passionate about making a change in our world. The late night discussions within the NOI group were energizing to me and renewed my passion for creating positive change.

Janine Heiser

• Where I am now is: DNC National Voter File Project
• What I got from NOI was: A base of knowledge about how technology can be integrated into campaigns and political research, tremendous inspiration to continue working in the field of progressive politics, advice on how to break into the quickly changing field of political research/voter targeting, a network that I credit with helping me gain a job in the nation’s capital, and a lot of new friends.
• Comments: The NOI training was a big boost in my life. It was tremendous morale boost to meet and interact with the larger progressive community that was trying to leverage technology to produce political results; I felt myself reenergized to continuing working in the field of progressive politics. NOI is an important space for young progressives to come together to share ideas, experiences, and knowledge of what works while inspiring each other in the process.

Betsy Hoover

• Where I am now is: Sojourners
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: NOI helped me understand my current work in a larger political context. It helped me connect skills and strategy of online communication to most effectively utilize new tools. The training also connected me with amazing people who, like me, want to change the world!

Rebecca Hyman

• Where I am now is: John Edwards (NH)
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: Thanks to your hard work in putting together our info packets that you sent out to employers I got my job, so much thanks!!!

Jeremy Jansen

• Where I am now is: Currently working as Take A Stand Coordinator for Americans Against Escalation in Iraq. In a week, I will be a field organizer in Iowa for Americans Against Escalation in Iraq
• What I got from NOI was: I got hooked up with some connections. I place to stay for a month. I was introduced to AAEI and will continue working for the organization.
• Comments: NOI was neat. I was able to learn the ways of the netroots. Further, I was able to meet and connect with many leaders in progressive politics.

Cory Kalanick

• Where I am now is: Bill Kennedy for Congress (MT-AL)
• What I got from NOI was: The NOI Training is the real deal. It significantly advanced my knowledge of incorporating new technology and new media into traditional campaign methods, to the point that I was promoted to online director upon returning to my Congressional campaign.
• Comments: Thanks to NOI, we have established a tremendous national network of progressive activists, and are the next generation of movers and shakers!

Erin Kenzie

• Where I am now is: I am still working as the School Programs Coordinator for the San Luis Valley Victim-Offender Reconciliation Program in Alamosa, Colorado, but I am planning a move to DC by the spring.
• What I got from NOI was: The Campaign Bootcamp was one of the most eye-opening experiences I've had, especially at a training or conference. The skills we learned, along with the career connections and amazing people, were top-notch. After the week was over, I returned home with a renewed faith in progressive change, as well as a clearer idea of how I fit into the movement.
• Comments: Oh wow, the NOI Campaign Bootcamp was an amazing experience. I gained more skills, friends, and connections in one week than ever I thought possible. The organizers and trainers worked incredibly hard to give us the tools and opportunities necessary to succeed in progressive politics. Anyone who cares about politics and wants to make a difference should attend an NOI training... It's great to see so many of my classmates get the jobs they wanted after leaving the training. I'm looking forward to joining them after I finish my time in Colorado!

Kenny Ketner

• Where I am now is: Independent contracting (Lubbock, TX), Party building, grassroots organizing
• What I got from NOI was: Top-notch training from some of the most innovative minds active in progressive politics
• Comments: The New Organizing Institute's training has given me innovative tactics and a renewed passion to implement them on progressive campaigns in one of the most conservative places in the nation. We will surprise the hell out of our opponents as we enter the 2008 election cycle.

Darci Larsen

• Where I am now is: Utah
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: NOI has been the most significant and greatest thing to ever hit my political career. I can't say enough great things about it. You guys are amazing! The significance is lost on the politicos in Utah unfortunately; the concept of "new organizing" has yet to hit this state. Getting to see the big picture and get training in making use of this new frontier of campaigning was unspeakably choice.

Matt Latham

• Where I am now is: Day for Delegate, VA House of Delegates race
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Ali Latifi

• Where I am now is: Special Assistant to the SVP of Online Communications at the Center for American Progress
• What I got from NOI was: A better understanding of the vastness of a campaign and how many processes, organizations, and nuanced tasks it takes to run an effective election from people currently working for political organizations and campaigns. I was also able to build a vast network from the other trainees and trainers.
• Comments: I left NOI with a more complete understanding of both the political sphere and the people working within it... I never knew how complex and detailed a campaign was until I went to NOI. For instance, I never would have thought that there are entire companies that devote their time solely to phone banking.

Samantha MacDonald

• Where I am now is: Murphy Putnam Media, LLC
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: NOI is the reason I am moving to D.C. in less than a week to start my dream internship. I am now working for a political advertising firm that I use to send fan letters to and it's all because of NOI. Thank you!

Ian Magruder

• Where I am now is: High School
• What I got from NOI was: Being a NOI Boot Camp attendee was an incredible experience. The most valuable element for me was making connections with a diverse group of experienced trainers and motivated peers. The NOI training also gave me an excellent view into how campaigns and organizations function, and the tactics and tools which have proven most successful in recent years.
• Comments: I've been inspired and energized, and plan to take the skills I've learned into the campaign work I do in the years to come.

Nirmal Mankani

• Where I am now is: Doing data research for the AFL-CIO.
• What I got from NOI was: My current employment, the tools and resources to become a more effective online activist, the network of other incredible NOI alums, a broader understanding of how technology can be used to advance progressive causes.
• Comments: NOI was not only the best training that I have ever participated in, but one of the best experiences of my life.
• NOI has benefited me by:
  • Introducing me to some amazing friends.
  • Teaching me skills that will make me a more effective online activist.
  • Plugging me into a network that will help me to spread my ideas.
  • Helping me get a job.

Jemma McPherson

• Where I am now is: Carr Center for Human Rights Policy, Kennedy School of Government, Harvard
• What I got from NOI was: terrific tech training and wonderful political mentoring
• Comments: NOI is the only organization that is giving young progressives the tools they need to not only be competitive in the political workforce but to also set the curve of tomorrow's political spectrum.

Jonathan Mendelson

• Where I am now is: Global Strategy Group (political polling)
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: The NOI training was a remarkable opportunity. I learned so many things from the amazing presenters and staff, and it was incredible to meet and interact with such passionate, accomplished, and diverse participants from across the country. The event exceeded my wildest expectations, and I look forward to staying in touch with alumni as we rise through the ranks across the political universe to make our country a better place to live in. Thanks, Judith, Roz, and Zack, for making this possible! You guys rock!

Annette Metten

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: It has put me in touch with many different employers and exposed me to a variety of jobs out there that I didn't know were available.

Eric Mosinger

• Where I am now is: Americans Against Escalation in Iraq campaign
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Neil Nagraj

• Where I am now is: Off the Bus (Huffington Post)
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: Well, it's benefited me in that I'm leaving the shallow world of corporate branding to go work on Off the Bus with Zack. Like I mentioned, the caliber of people we had in front of us was unreal, as were the people in the room. What was also amazing to me was considering NOI in contrast to other trainings[...] The other thing that was amazing was the caliber of the career fair -- you just don't get to walk into a room and have people looking to hire for the DNC, or EMILY's List, or a top mail firm. That's a really rare opportunity -- the jobs people have been looking to fill with NOI alums are jobs that most kids trying to get into politics or activism would kill for.

Harry Neack

• Where I am now is: GWU School of Political Management Legislative Affairs, Intern with the Democratic National Committee
• What I got from NOI was: A much better understanding of how technology can be applied in many ways in a campaign. Until NOI, I had placed the tech side of a campaign in its own small section, apart from all other aspects. Now I realize how technology can and does fit into every part of a campaign to compliment and improve the overall strategy.
• Comments: The NOI training was great because I learned a lot of things that I will pass on to people back in Kentucky. I expect some of that will be very useful and helpful to the College Dems, county party, and state party. And hopefully, since I have picked up some unique skills from NOI, I'll be able to get a job in Kentucky with those new skills. The NOI training has taken my activism and campaign knowledge to another level.

Brenna Norton

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was: A broader understanding of the internet and technology to all aspects of a campaign, a foundation of new cutting edge technological skills, a network of fellow NOI trainees and mentors to reach out to, and last, but not least, the opportunity to listen and converse with incredible organizers and leaders in a variety of fields.
• Comments: The future of the progressive-left is looking much brighter with the existence of the New Organizing Institute. Zack Exley, Judith Freeman, and Roz Lemieux have found a mix that works: a room full of passionate diverse trainees who spend a week with practitioners easily labeled ‘the best in the biz’, career mentorship, and assistance with job-placement = a lasting network of committed and empowered activists ready to fight.

Clayton Ollarvia

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: The training itself, has opened my eyes to the different venues that are available through political organizing. It has offered me the ability, to not just think critically but on a wide scale.

Ute Pannen

• Where I am now is: Germany
• What I got from NOI was: It motivated me very much to continue my professional goals: campaigning and media. The contacts are great [...]

Nikki Paschal

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was: Access to an impeccable array of professionals from all aspects of campaigns. Network of young alums for support, information.
• Comments:

Jason Paul

• Where I am now is: Interning for the Sierra Club via the Progressive Pipeline Project
• Comments: Being with people who care about what I care about is the best training of all.

Cate Rauseo

• Where I am now is: job hunting
• What I got from NOI was: Not only has NOI been extremely helpful in my search for a job by providing career advice and an immense number of contacts within the field but it also provided me with an unparalleled experience in new media and its power to influence organizing. In only one week I was able to learn some things that I otherwise may only have learned through years of experience in the field. The skills I learned at NOI will undoubtedly benefit both my job search and my career. But, perhaps more importantly, the people I met and learned from during the week truly impacted my life and reignited my desire to make a difference.
• Comments:

Jerimee Richir

• Where I am now is: North Carolina Democratic Party
• What I got from NOI was: a better understanding of the Left's opportunities and challenges
• Comments:

Ryan Roach

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Patrick Schmitt

• Where I am now is: Working at ServeNext.org, doing political organizing
• What I got from NOI was: An awesome experience, great skills with email writing and online organizing, some new friends, and some good job leads... It introduced me to the genre of online campaign writing.
• Comments: Awesome job.

Kyle Stoneman

• Where I am now is: Wired for Change
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Derek Stromas

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Zo Tobi

• Where I am now is: ReEnergizeUS
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Nicole Trudell

• Where I am now is: Richardson campaign (IA)
• What I got from NOI was: Effective techniques for internet campaigns, as well as practical action plans and common sense advice for all campaigning
• Comments: The organizers, speakers, presentations, and training materials all combined to provide a great foundation for activists to begin (or continue) a career in successful progressive campaigning... I found the step-by-step instruction in everything from email writing to voter databases to be invaluable!

Earl Watson

• Where I am now is: Democratic Party of Virginia-Virginia Beach
• What I got from NOI was: Training on campaign work which was VERY useful now that I am working on a local campaign. Most importantly you meet people who maybe starting off in field and you have other people you can reach out if you have a problem and need advice.
• Comments: The Organizers and trainers were VERY helpful if you wanted to know how to get into another area of politics other than field organizing. All the presentations were very informative and useful because the trainers currently work in field so they tell you the pro's and con's because they know first hand and that is very useful to know.

Greg Williams

• Where I am now is: Organizing the Sullivan County (Northeast Tennessee) Democratic Party as its Web and Technical Coordinator; additionally, doing some Consulting work; I am seeking a FTE opportunity (primarily in the Southeast, but...flexible!).
• What I got from NOI was: I learned exponentially about utilizing many of the online, technological tools for advocating progressive and/or Democratic Party movements. The dozens of experienced trainers, representing an extremely diverse collection of progressive non-profit organizations, political campaigns, blogs and academic institutions, were insightful and enlightening. The Google representative -- moreover, their technology -- was eye opening and inspiring!
• The contacts I made have already been useful -- and should continue to be useful. As a result, I believe I have become part of a valuable network of talented and smart individuals and groups. Two of my fellow NOI graduates have indicated that because of my campaign management experience, they would like to utilize my help for their upcoming, local campaigns. Additionally, Kari Lundstad-Vogt, of Emily’s List (assigned my “mentor” on “Career Day”), has been very helpful in my career search.
• Comments: The eight-day boot camp of “new media” online campaign fundraising was amazing and intense. The trainers were very experienced, smart and talented (some even with Ph.D.s). In particular, Dr. Marshall Ganz (Harvard) mesmerized the audience for two hours with his first-person accounts as a freedom fighter/organizer with both Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Cesar Chavez.
• Finally, I need to request some sort of finder’s fee from Google for the sales work I have been doing for their software technology. That “stuff” is awesome! Most of it is free, but one needs plenty of p.c. memory. Fortunately, my County Democratic Party has offered to pay for my upgrade. After I demonstrated what I could do with Google, however, the Executive Committee eagerly voted unanimously to ensure that my p.c. is upgraded.

Barak Wouk

• Where I am now is: High School
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments:

Edwin Zambrano

• Where I am now is: Looking into graduate school program in New York
• What I got from NOI was: A great experience and practical skills on progressive online organizing. It also provided me a great progressive network of mentors and young progressive leaders like me.
• Comments: As we become progressive leaders in our community, from time to time, it's important to live the present, focusing in the future, but always retaining the past. Our communities need more organizer leaders rather than egocentric politicians. Lets retain the ideologies of progressive leaders from the past alive; I have a dream and Si Se Puede (yes, we can) as we gain the tools and the skills needed to make a difference in our communities. Progressive programs like NOI prepare the future progressive leaders, like us, that would certainly make a difference in their communities under the fundamental of truth values, equality and justice for all. Thank you, NOI, for giving me the opportunity to be part of such progressive movement like this. Together we will make a difference! Si se Puede!

Timothy Zeiser

• Where I am now is:
• What I got from NOI was:
• Comments: NOI gave me the contacts and the know-how to feel confident going forward. After the training, I'm directed and connected! I made lasting friendships with other passionate progressives, and met several people in the field with whom I plan to stay in touch. Awesome experience!