Washington, D.C., November 11, 2024 – The George Washington University’s Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM) proudly announces the addition of two distinguished Visiting Scholars, Shannon Watts, founder of Moms Demand Action, and Bianca Prade, an esteemed strategic communications executive. Watts and Prade will join GSPM’s Public Relations and Communications program, enriching the curriculum with their extensive experience and groundbreaking contributions to social change and innovative communications.
Shannon Watts, a renowned communication executive and a trailblazer in gun safety advocacy, founded Moms Demand Action, now the nation’s largest grassroots group focused on combating gun violence. Over the past decade, Moms Demand Action has successfully blocked approximately 90 percent of the NRA’s legislative priorities at the state level each year and helped pass more than 500 gun safety laws across the U.S. In 2022, this movement was pivotal in passing the historic Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, marking the first federal gun safety legislation in 26 years. In addition to her leadership in gun reform, Watts serves on the board of Emerge America, a premier organization for recruiting and training women for political office. She is also the author of Fight Like a Mother: How a Grassroots Movement Took on the Gun Lobby and Why Women Will Change the World.
Bianca Prade brings over two decades of strategic communications experience to GSPM, having advised a diverse portfolio of clients across various industries. Prade is currently working on her book, Strategic Communications Evolved: The AI Skills Advantage, which explores the integration of artificial intelligence into strategic communications practices. Her expertise provides a unique perspective on how emerging technologies can transform the field, preparing future leaders to leverage AI in their communications strategies.
Program Director Lesley Lopez expressed enthusiasm about Watts and Prade joining the program, noting their unique contributions: “Shannon and Bianca are exemplary leaders who have harnessed the power of communication to drive meaningful social change and innovation. Shannon’s achievements in grassroots advocacy are a testament to the impact of well-executed, passionate public relations efforts. Bianca’s pioneering work with AI in communications will inspire our students to embrace the future of the field. Both of these accomplished women will undoubtedly enrich the learning experience for our students, equipping them with the tools and inspiration to become change agents in their careers.”
With their unparalleled experience and dedication, Shannon Watts and Bianca Prade are poised to empower the next generation of communications professionals at The Graduate School of Political Management. This collaboration underscores GSPM’s commitment to providing students with access to leaders who are shaping the future of advocacy and strategic communication.
For more information about the GSPM, please contact [email protected].