Abigail (Abby) W.
About Abigail (Abby) W.
Abigail (Abby) W. is a Program Manager for Systems Change at the National Fund for Workforce Solutions, where she applies her expertise in systems and strategic thinking to enhance community engagement and oversee grantee activities. She has a diverse background in research, policy, and program management, with previous roles at organizations such as McKinley Advisors, Grantmakers for Effective Organizations, and the Missouri Senate.
Current Role at National Fund for Workforce Solutions
Abigail W. serves as the Program Manager for Systems Change at the National Fund for Workforce Solutions since 2021. In this role, she manages the execution of strategic initiatives for the systems change team. Her responsibilities include overseeing projects and contracts, creating and implementing programmatic content, and developing workplans. She engages stakeholders, facilitates meetings, and tracks budgets to ensure effective program delivery. Abigail also oversees grantee activities and provides technical assistance to grantees and the broader National Fund network through peer learning activities and the development of tools and resources.
Previous Experience in Research and Policy
Abigail W. has a diverse background in research and policy roles. She worked as a Research Manager at McKinley Advisors from 2020 to 2021 and as a Senior Research Associate from 2018 to 2020. Prior to that, she served as an Associate at Grantmakers for Effective Organizations from 2016 to 2018. Abigail also gained experience in the public sector as a Policy Intern at the Missouri Senate in 2015 and as a Public Engagement Intern at The White House in the same year. Additionally, she was a Public Service Fellow at the Partnership for Public Service in 2016.
Educational Background
Abigail W. holds a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and Government from Truman State University. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master's degree in Non-Profit Management and Public Administration from American University. Her academic background provides her with a strong foundation in both political and organizational frameworks, which she applies in her current role and previous positions.
Early Career Development
Abigail W. began her career at Truman State University, where she worked as a Student Worker from 2012 to 2014 and later as the Academic Success Mentor Program Coordinator for four months in 2014. These early roles allowed her to develop skills in mentorship and program coordination, setting the stage for her future positions in research and policy.
Systems Thinking and Strategic Initiatives
In her current position, Abigail W. applies systems thinking and strategic thinking to content development, enabling the National Fund to establish itself as a thought leader in the field. She supports the development of deliverables, coordinates evaluation and impact activities, and facilitates the adoption of innovative platforms such as mobilize.io to enhance community engagement.