Journal Staff – Volume 31 (2023-24)

Editor-In-chief

Frank J. Bewkes is a third-year Ph.D. student at the Trachtenberg School, specializing in social policy and sexuality. A scholar of LGBTQ rights-related law and policy, he is an adjunct professor currently teaching at both GW Law School and Georgetown’s McCourt School. He has previously worked for such organizations as the Center for American Progress and the ACLU. Frank holds an LL.M. from NYU School of Law, a J.D. from GW Law School, and a B.A. in political science from Yale University. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his friends and family, singing, and genealogy. Born in New York and raised in Connecticut, Frank is the proud son of Susan Frank Kelley and Jeffrey L. Bewkes.

Managing Editor

Sarah Mohammadi is a second-year Master of Public Policy student with a concentration in urban policy. She graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and a minor in Islamic Studies. In her free time, Sarah enjoys reading, hiking, and taking her dog on long walks.


Authors (2023-24)

Maryam Arab is a second-year MPP student at the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Administration. During her first year at the Trachtenberg School, Maryam was a legislative intern at the United States Senate and House of Representatives and a Student Administrative Assistant for the Trachtenberg School. She is from St. Paul, Minnesota, and received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. At the Trachtenberg school, she is concentrating in Social Policy with a focus on wealth and income inequality.

Sean Glavan is an officer in the US Coast Guard assigned to the Coast Guard’s advanced education program. A second-year Master of Public Policy student, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Geography from the University of Colorado and a Master of Arts in National Security and Intelligence Studies from American Military University. 

Lieutenant Commander Glavan is a helicopter pilot and Flight Instructor, and he has been assigned to Coast Guard air stations in New Jersey, Alaska, and Florida. He also served as a Rotary-Wing Air Intercept Mission Commander, leading teams charged with the aerial security of the President of the United States and other dignitaries at locations across the country.

Leisha Goel is a 2023 graduate of the MPP program with a concentration in regulatory policy. Originally from Chicago, Leisha is currently an auditor at the Amtrak Office of Inspector General. In her free time, Leisha can be found exploring DC and reading in local bookstores with a cup of tea or coffee.

Madison Jennings is a second-year Master of Public Policy student at the Trachtenberg School of Public Policy, concentrating on disability policy. She graduated from The George Washington University with a BA in Political Science, Public Policy Focus in 2022. Currently, Madison is president of the Disabled Students Collective at the university and has acted in that position for the past two years and this year joined the Student Association as the Executive Secretary of Accessibility. In her free time, she enjoys playing The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom and caring for her chinchilla, Lulu.

Jaya Parashar is a first-year Master of Public Administration student at Trachtenberg School. She holds an MA and BA in political science from the University of Delhi in India and has previously worked with organizations like Unilever and Save the Children. In addition to her academic pursuits, Jaya is engaged in various aspects of GW’s university life. She currently serves as an international student ambassador with the International Services Office. She is also a Women Leadership Fellows (WLF) member at the Trachtenberg School. Beyond academia, she actively engages with a few nonprofits in Washington, DC. Her volunteer work with One Journey focuses on shaping the narrative of refugees in America. At the same time, her role as Vice President for Global Shapers Community, World Economic Forum allows her to be a catalyst for driving change. Jaya’s multifaceted personality shines through her love for dance and exploration through travel.

Steven Watson is a second-year graduate student at GW pursuing a Master of Public Policy degree with a focus in Budgeting and Public Finance. Before enrolling at GW, Steven attended Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond, Virginia, where he received a BS in anthropology and a BA in political science. Steven’s areas of interest include fiscal policy, program evaluation, state and local management, and urban policy. Steven enjoys running, exploring DC, and folding fitted sheets during his spare time.   


ASSOCIATE EDITORS (2023-24)

Arub Butt is a first-year Master of Public Policy Student concentrating in Public-Private Policy Management and Environmental Policy. She completed her undergraduate degree in Political Science and History at Bryn Mawr College. In her free time, Arub enjoys reading, watching TV, traveling, and trying new restaurants/activities in DC.

Emma Campbell is a first-year Master of Public Administration student. She graduated from Brigham Young University, where she studied English, professional writing, and international development. Emma has recently been involved with grant writing and development work at education and health-focused NGOs. In her free time, she enjoys playing piano and violin, exploring national parks, and reading.

Mairead Crotty is a second-year Master of Public Policy student at the Trachtenberg School. She graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in English and Government and currently works as a paralegal at the House Office of the Legislative Counsel. In her free time, Mairead enjoys knitting, hiking, and trying new recipes.

Taylor Elop is a second-year Master of Public Policy student with a concentration in health policy. She previously graduated from the University of Oregon with degrees in Political Science and Planning, Public Policy, and Management. Born in California and raised in Washington, she is dedicated to learning about the relationship between the environment and health outcomes. In her free time, Taylor enjoys going on scooter rides and hanging out with her cat, Twyla. 

Annabelle Farkas is a first-year Master of Public Policy student. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in Political Science and International Studies. In her free time, she enjoys reading, watching college football, and caring for her ever-growing collection of plants.

Carolina Gutierrez is a first-year Master of Public Policy candidate at The Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration, concentrating on social and urban policy. She graduated from Wayne State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Based on her previous experience in the legal field, she has interests in comprehensive immigration policy and reform as well as nonprofit management. During her spare time, Carolina enjoys reading, staying active, and spending time with family and friends.