When was the State Society of Rhode Island (SSRI) founded? What is your core mission?
The State Society of Rhode Island (SSRI) was officially founded in 2014, when it received its 501c3 non-profit status. Informally, the Society began in early 2013 when a core group of Rhode Islanders began the process of developing a mission, bylaws, and recruiting members. We’ve learned from several Rhode Islanders that there was some iteration of a Rhode Island State Society in the 1960s, but it had not been active in recent years.
The core mission of SSRI is to serve as the premier nonpartisan organization in Washington, DC. We are a resource for Rhode Islanders who live, work, or study in the nation’s capital.
Why is nurturing the Ocean State community in Washington D.C. important to you?
Born and raised in Rhode Island, I have immense pride and affinity for the state’s history, culture, and communities. Rhode Island has a character and a uniqueness that leaves a lasting impact. After moving to Washington, D.C. in 2013, I was dismayed that Rhode Island was one of the only states that didn’t have a state society. I was fortunate enough to connect with the group of Rhode Islanders that were working on the initial stages of SSRI. We all shared a sense of camaraderie and purpose to create an organization that would be the foundation of the Rhody community in DC, serving as a “home away from home” for residents and friends of Rhode Island.
What impact are Rhode Islanders making in our nation’s capital? What is one thing about being a Rhode Islander living in D.C. that might surprise people back in Little Rhody?
Rhode Islanders occupy some of the highest power jobs in Washington, D.C., whether it be in the federal government, non-profit, corporate, or arts/hospitality sector. We may be the smallest state, but the caliber and quality of our natives are on par with the largest in the nation.
Everywhere you go, you meet someone that has some type of connection to Rhode Island, and they love to talk about it! Also, and probably not much of a surprise, we all fly home every weekend in the summer to go to the beach!
Tell us about the role of collaboration in SSRI’s work. Do you have any advice – especially for young professionals – on how to build meaningful networks?
As a volunteer organization, collaboration among our members, board of directors, and executive team is critical to our success. We utilize strategic planning to identify smart and meaningful goals and then we divide and conquer. Most importantly, we have fun – whether it be our annual Rhode to DC event or a board meeting – the sense of camaraderie sustains member commitment. I would advise young professionals to find something they are passionate about and get involved in an organization, group etc. based on that. The most meaningful (and beneficial) networks are both authentic and rewarding.
What does a typical workday look like for you? Do you have a daily routine or ritual that you swear by / that helps you stay focused as you balance your career and Board service for SSRI?
As a lobbyist working in Washington, DC my typical workday may include meeting with Capitol Hill staff to discuss policy recommendations, tracking and analyzing new legislation, attending congressional briefings and topical events at DC-based think-tanks, interfacing with federal officials, and developing new coalitions and advocacy activities.
My daily ritual is that I walk to work every morning – it helps clear my head, get my heart rate up, and take in some fresh air before I attack the day.
Do you have a favorite quote or mantra that inspires you?
“Breathe and make it work!”
How can Rhode Islanders get more involved with SSRI’s work? Are there any particular programs and / or events Rhode Islanders should check-out?
SSRI has a very active social media presence through our website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and mailing list. These are excellent resources to help find ways to connect – whether you want to get more involved as a member and/or participate in SSRI events. We accept new members at any time, and continue to welcome friends of RI to almost all of our events. SSRI enjoys the support of several Rhode Island-based corporate sponsors, including Made From RI, the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council, and the Narragansett Brewing Company. These collaborations foster strong ties between the Ocean State and DC. SSRI is constantly looking for ways to partner with Rhode Island organizations and businesses to advance the mission of the Society.
While the Society frequently hosts social, philanthropic, and civic programming throughout the year, our annual “Rhode to DC” signature event is not something to be missed! Each fall, SSRI celebrates RI culture, business, food, and service at the Rhode to DC event, working with Rhody businesses and organizations to bring all the flavors of the Ocean State to DC. While we enjoy our share of Gansetts and chowder at this soirée, we also honor a select group of distinguished Rhode Islanders with the SSRI Leadership Award. This award recognizes individuals who have made important contributions to RI and serve as role models for leadership through his/her commitment, character, and camaraderie to the state of Rhode Island.
Interested in getting more involved? Have an idea for a collaboration? Check out our website http://www.statesocietyofrhodeisland.com/contact/ with links to our social media, or send us an email directly at [email protected]m .
The State Society of Rhode Island is a nonpartisan organization in Washington, DC, serving as the premier resource for Rhode Islanders who live, work, or study in the national capital.
The Society hosts a number of events each year which is highlighted by the annual Rhode to DC celebration of Rhode Island culture, creating new opportunities for Rhode Islanders to meet one another and celebrating those who serve as role models for leadership through their ambassadorship. Rhode to DC showcases Rhode Island businesses and cultural organizations in Washington, DC, as well as recognizing Rhode Islanders who have made important contributions to the state through the State Society of Rhode Island Leadership Award.
