‘It never occurs to a woman that she could possibly win and we’re seeing that changing now.’ – Patti Russo
Patti Russo is a nationally recognized leader focused on improving the quality of life for women. An advocate for increasing the number of women in elected office Patti explains that it’s not a job for everyone. 2020 marked the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment – 100 years of women having the right to vote. And 2018 saw an increase in elected women. For Patti, there is much to talk about and this is a very timely time… So we talk about:
- The start of her passion for women in politics
- The vision
- 1992 – the year of the women – really?
- 2017 and ‘I’m not going to take it anymore’
- A thick skin and so much more is necessary
- #MeToo Movement
- Are passion and a pulse enough?
- The increase in younger women and women of color
- Women’s biggest hurdle
- Golf, country club and the network
- AIN’T NO STOPPING US NOW
Patti is the Executive Director, Campaign School at Yale University – a non-partisan, issue neutral political campaign training program for women interested in running for public office or campaign management. Based at Yale Law School, the program attracts women from both the United States and internationally.
Patti is also a member of the council of women’s health research at Yale and chairs its Philanthropy and Communications committee.
For over 25 years Patti has held numerous leadership positions in public, private and not for profit organizations centered on increasing the number of women in the political arena. Patti has held leadership positions on federal, state and local political campaigns.
While an undergraduate student at George Washington University, Patti served as an intern to US Congresswoman Bella Abzug – who inspires her to this day.