Elisabeth Coats
Staff Assistant, U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations
My Bio:
After I received my undergraduate degree in Psychology and Political Science in St. Paul MN, I obtained my Master’s in Social Work from Washington University. I moved to DC post-graduation and worked as a Tax Policy fellow in the Senate Finance Committee. Shortly after the start of the 116th Congress I became a Staff Assistant on the Senate Appropriations Committee focusing on housing, commerce, science, and justice issues.
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What inspired you to get involved in public service?
My self-indulgent side loves the drama of the political world, but more importantly I prioritize immersing myself in a complicated process that impacts our everyday lives. I would be remiss if I didn’t use this interest of mine to strive for a more equitable present and future for disadvantaged communities.
Name one person you look up to and explain why.
My father dedicated his young adult life to the Civil Rights Movement as a member of SNCC (Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee). He utilized his passion and drive to demonstrate and collaborate with people in positions of power to raise awareness and solutions to struggles his community faced. I strive to be a connecting voice between different levels of marginalization just as he was.
What is one hope that you have for the future? Or what is one piece of advice that you would like to share?
Any connection is a good connection. Take the time to interact with folks who may have a completely different interest area or life path than you — it still proves beneficial.
