BUSSW Lecturer Appointed Vice President of Policy and Government Relations for Jumpstart
Kate Warren Barnes, a lecturer at Boston University School of Social Work (BUSSW), will join the early education organization Jumpstart for Young Children as its vice president of policy and government relations. In the role, she will spearhead the organization’s policy and advocacy initiatives, working at federal, state and local levels to lobby elected officials and executive branch agencies.
In a press release from Jumpstart, Warren Barnes said, “I’m proud to join Jumpstart and work toward their mission to disrupt structural injustice and create a future that allows children and families to reach their full potential. Now that the pandemic federal public health emergency has come to an end, it’s more important than ever to assess opportunities for progress to strengthen and even reimagine the policies and funding we need to best support young children, families, and early educators.”
Naila Bolus, the chief executive officer of Jumpstart, said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Kate and her indisputable passion for the wellbeing of families and children to the Jumpstart team. Her lived experience and professional expertise will be immeasurable assets as we work together to ensure that all children, especially those in historically marginalized and underserved communities, have access to high-quality education delivered by well-trained and well-compensated professionals.”
Kate Warren Barnes is a social worker and government affairs professional with more than 15 years of experience. Skilled in policy analysis and grassroots organizing, her passion lies in promoting intersectional advocacy and amplifying the voices of individuals with lived experiences. Her work focuses on health and well-being, and stems from an ongoing commitment to children and families, equity, and civic engagement.
At BUSSW, Warren Barnes serves as a dedicated educator and mentor to Master of Social Work students, teaching core classes in social welfare, state and mental health policy. She is a licensed foster provider and volunteers on several nonprofit boards, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Massachusetts and Project Bread, a nonprofit working to end hunger. She holds master’s degrees in social work and business administration and is currently completing her doctoral degree at the Sacred Heart University School of Social Work.