Rachel Aronson

Originally from Sharon, Massachusetts, Rachel graduated from the University of Vermont with a degree in anthropology. At UVM, she interned at a transitional living program for domestic violence survivors, helped evaluate clients’ needs around food insecurity, and wrote an undergraduate thesis on the role of food for survivors of domestic violence. She was also an active member of UVM’s Slade Hall, an intentional living community dedicated to environmental activism and horizontal leadership. Rachel has also worked with children in farm-based environmental education settings and community farms.

Field placement: United Way of King County

Seattle, Washington

Rachel worked to expand school breakfast participation among low-income students in Washington State by promoting Breakfast After the Bell. She compiled firsthand accounts of the impact of the program on parents, teachers, students, and school administrators. Rachel worked with funders, schools, and community partners to design new models for maximizing federal resources to end childhood hunger in schools.

Policy placement: NETWORK

Washington, D.C.

Rachel organized Just Advocacy Week, a week-long economic justice advocacy training for college students. She also assisted NETWORK in their campaign for a just tax system, including promoting #TaxPayerPride day and educating faith-based groups about religious teachings on tax justice and economic equality.

Publications