Joselle, a 2025 Bohnett Fellow, is a Master of Public Policy candidate at the University of Southern California’s Sol Price School of Public Policy. With a focus on social policy, her work aims to enhance the well-being and economic security of children and families.

In 2021, Joselle received her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and was promoted to Communications Director and Legislative Aide for her State Representative. During this time, she developed a passion for bridging the gap between residents and social safety net programs, leading her to oversee the communications department and develop content on local legislative issues. Inspired by the engagement of her community, Joselle had the chance to draft speeches for the Representative and continued in her career to write testimonies on behalf of nonprofit leaders and legislators.

Most recently, as a Policy Associate at Illinois Action for Children, she became an advocate for immigrant families and home-based child care providers by collaborating with government leaders, testifying at Education Board meetings, and spearheading communications strategy for a statewide coalition. Joselle’s policy recommendations helped reduce documentation burdens for families accessing childcare, and legislation she drafted to support the expansion of childcare subsidies for early childhood workers passed the Illinois General Assembly in 2024.

As a Bohnett Fellow, Joselle will work with Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s Office on various policy projects and Board meeting preparation. At USC, she looks forward to refining her evidence-based decision-making skills and continuing to advocate for policies that support vulnerable communities.