On July 1, the Summer 2025 cohort of the Advocacy Leadership Academy wrapped up its final session—and with it, we’re proud to celebrate the graduation of 12 emerging community leaders.
Over the past eight weeks, these participants built power together—growing their advocacy skills, deepening their understanding of policy, and expanding their knowledge around campaign strategy and power-building. They brought their unique perspectives and commitment to equity into every session.
Advocacy Leadership Academy isis hosted twice a year by the Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger and is open to aspiring community advocates and leaders looking to build their advocacy skills. Once accepted, participants engage in interactive virtual sessions, build connections, and gain tools to tell their stories, navigate Colorado’s legislative process, and advocate with impact.
The Summer 2025 Cohort reflects diverse backgrounds and lived or living experiences with hunger, including participants who currently use public benefit programs or previously struggled with food insecurity. Several graduates have brought valuable expertise through their work with food coalitions, community-based organizations, and food justice organizations across the state like Sister Carmen Community Center, Angelica Village, West Mountain Regional Health Alliance, San Luis Valley Local Foods Coalition, and Southeast Food Coalition of Colorado Springs.
Steered by Dayana Leyva, the Blueprint’s Policy Manager, participants used new tools and guidance to bring their advocacy to new levels, and we can’t wait to see how they continue to lead in their communities.
Join us in congratulating [insert names or “this incredible group”] on their graduation from the Summer 2025 Advocacy Leadership Academy!
Marissa Cantrell
Victoria Sandoval
Erin Meyer
Namrata Shrestha
Brent Pike
Yevgeniya Tsyganok
Andrea Gamboa
Amalia Villalta
Rhea Johnson
Alexandra Carter
Claudia Fleming
Ari Devora
