Madison Watts graduated from West Haven High School in 2016, where she was a member of the softball and basketball teams. She was also a member of the National Honor Society and Student Government. After graduating from WHHS, Watts took her education out of state, beginning a path that would eventually lead her to a career in policy and government affairs.
Watts attended Towson University in Maryland, earning a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Criminal Justice. During her time at Towson, she worked as a Resident Assistant and Orientation Leader, was a member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Inc., and played club softball. She later continued her education at George Mason University in Virginia, where she earned a Master of Public Policy.
Her time at WHHS helped foster an interest in social studies and provided her with teachers and mentors who supported her along the way. Watts credits Mr. Backman, Mr. Pelatowski, and Ms. Martin with keeping her academically engaged, while Mrs. Kumnick, Mr. Schev, and Ms. Figmic provided support as she navigated the college process as a first-generation college student.
Today, Watts works as a Policy Associate at a nonprofit that supports access to legal education. Her career has included research, policy, and government affairs roles. Her work can involve reaching out to Congressional staffers, attending hearings on Capitol Hill, tracking and analyzing legislation, writing blog posts, and preparing advocates to speak with their elected officials. She has also worked with advocacy organizations on criminal justice issues, including reentry, correctional education, and unsolved violent crime.
Based in the Washington, D.C., area, Watts said her work can change from week to week depending on the Congressional calendar. “Working and living in the DC area is incredibly fast paced and my weeks can vary quite a lot based on the Congressional calendars, but it is so rewarding to be where everything happens!” she said.
For current WHHS students, Watts wants them to know that it is okay not to have everything figured out right away. She remembers how intimidating it felt to attend college out of state without knowing anyone, but ultimately considers taking that risk one of the best decisions she made. “I am so proud of my 17-year-old self for taking that risk and I am so grateful that I was willing to do it scared,” Watts said.
She also encourages students to get involved in the political issues they care about and use their voices to make an impact. “If you don’t know how or where to start, reach out!” she said.
From her experiences at WHHS to pursuing degrees in sociology, criminal justice, and public policy, Watts has built a career centered around issues she cares about.
Her journey serves as an example of what can come from being willing to step outside of your comfort zone, even when the path ahead is not completely clear.