Brenda directs the Reflective Democracy Campaign, which works to increase the power of women and people of color in public life and to build a system of elected leadership that truly reflects the American people. The campaign conducts groundbreaking research, engages the public in crucial dialogue, and makes catalytic investments in leaders and organizations working towards a Reflective Democracy. Previously Brenda was an organizer and campaign strategist in the labor movement, most recently as the Special Assistant to the President of UNITE HERE, the union of hospitality workers in the US and Canada. She holds a Ph.D in American Studies and is a visiting faculty member at Brown University and the Wesleyan Center for Prison Education.