Kevin Turpin

President of National Journal Group

Kevin Turpin II is the president of National Journal Group. As president, Turpin has transitioned National Journal from a traditional media company to an information services organization. As the former senior vice president of National Journal, Turpin led the product development, strategy research, digital, and marketing teams. In this role, he oversaw product research, evaluated potential partnerships and established operational infrastructure for the new product pipeline. With over 10 years at National Journal, Turpin has produced successful proposals to increase profit margins, identified efficiencies in vendor relationships and created new revenue lines for the organization. Turpin also built a strategic advisory group of 60 government affairs executives from Fortune 100 corporations and influential trade associations; resulting in the launch of National Journal’s Leadership Council. He is also responsible for the launch of Policy Brands Roundtable and Gravity Research. Turpin has a deep passion for mentorship of young people and serves on the board of City Year DC; a non-profit dedicated to mentoring young people during their primary and secondary years of education. He is a board member of the Carlton Club. In addition, Turpin serves as a member of the Economic Club of Washington and the Council on Foreign Relations. A proud Hoya, Turpin is a graduate of Georgetown University.

Luke Hartig

President, Gravity Research

lhartig@gravityresearch.com

Luke Hartig is President of Gravity Research. He leads Gravity’s research and consulting businesses, including the Stakeholder Influence Analysis, Societal and Reputational Intelligence service, and the Political and Reputational Vetting Service. Prior to joining National Journal, Luke served as a senior director at the National Security Council (NSC) in the Obama White House. He previously served in a range of government roles at the Pentagon, State Department, Office of Management and Budget, and Government Accountability Office. Luke began his career as a Peace Corps volunteer in Guatemala. Luke holds a master’s in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School and a B.A. in international relations from Boston University. He is an adjunct fellow at New America, an executive editor of Just Security, and a member of the advisory councils for Hostage US and the James W. Foley Legacy Foundation. Luke lives in Washington, D.C. with his wife and two sons.

Gina Kim

Chief Research Officer

Gina Kim is Chief Research Officer at Gravity Research, driving the development of analytical talent and hiqh-quality insights on politics, policy and people. She focuses on building research products and services for senior executives at Fortune 500 corporations and leading trade associations. Gina's areas of expertise include the media habits of Washington influentials, research on policy brand strength, and benchmarking of executive time allocation, spending and staffing, and legislative/regulatory risk. She previously spent five years at Grant Thornton, including four years as Director of Public Policy and External Affairs. Gina also served as Research Director at CEB (Corporate Executive Board, now part of Gartner) and held a variety of research and strategy positions at The Nasdaq Stock Market. She holds a Master's degree in labor economics from Cornell University, where she was a Sage Graduate Fellow. Gina graduated with a Bachelor's degree in economics from Bryn Mawr College, and currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.

Kendall VanHoose Seketa

Vice President, New Products

Kendall Seketa currently serves as the Vice President of New Products at Gravity Research. In this role, Kendall leads Gravity Research's evolving support for corporations managing reputation concerns associated with a wide range of societal issues. In her time with National Journal, Kendall has supported the launch and operations of multiple product lines, collaborating closely with executives of Fortune 500 companies to understand both their reputational risk and policy challenges and creating strategic Stakeholder Influence Analysisghts products to solve them. This has included the launch of National Journal Research's Societal and Reputational Intelligence work, Corporate IStakeholder Influence Analysisders Survey, Political and Reputational Vetting analysis, and business development support for federal contractors. Prior to joining National Journal, Kendall served as a consultant at Booz Allen Hamilton, supporting clients in the federal healthcare market. Originally from Virginia, Kendall graduated from the College of William and Mary and currently lives in Washington, DC.

Daniel Thomas

Vice President, Research

Daniel Thomas is Vice President of Research at Gravity Research. Prior to this position, Daniel worked at Meta as a User Experience Research Manager, leading a team of researchers that were helping to build new business messaging products in Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp. Daniel has also worked as a Research Director in Gartner’s financial services team and was a Managing Director in Hanover Research’s higher education practice. He holds a B.A. in History from King’s College, London, an M.St. in Historical Research from the University of Oxford and a Ph.D. in Modern History from the University of St Andrews. Originally from Dorset in the UK, Daniel now resides In Silver Spring, MD with his wife and two children.

Aidan Mallon

Senior Government Business Analyst

Aidan Mallon is a Senior Government Business Analyst with Gravity Research. Aidan attended Boston College where he received a B.A. in Political Science with minors in Asian Studies, Theatre, and Management for Social Impact & the Public Good. Prior to joining National Journal, Aidan interned at the U.S. Department of State. Originally from Long Island, Aidan now resides in Washington, D.C.

Amelia D’Agaro

Public Policy Research Analyst

Amelia D’Agaro is a Public Policy Research Analyst for the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team at Gravity Research. She received her B.A. in Public Policy from Duke University. During her time at Duke, Amelia worked in various policy-oriented industries, including internships in government affairs, public sector consulting, and public service at a district congressional office. She also spent a semester studying abroad in Florence, Italy. Originally from the Chicago area, Amelia now resides in Washington, DC.

Andrew Swick

Managing Director, Political and Reputational Vetting

Andrew Swick is the Managing Director of the Political and Reputational Vetting service, responsible for managing the service and its research team. Prior to joining National Journal/Gravity Research, he worked as an analyst with the National Commission on Military, National, and Public Service and at the Center for a New American Security, focusing on military policy and defense issues. Andrew is a graduate of Georgetown University and the United States Military Academy, and previously served as an Army infantry officer.

Anuradha (Anu) Bhatt

Associate Research Director, Stakeholder Influence Analysis

Anu Bhatt is an Associate Research Director with the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team. Prior to joining National Journal, Anu worked at the Association of Immunization Managers as a Program/Policy Analyst for 7 years. She completed her undergraduate degree in Political, Legal, Economic Analysis at Mills College in Oakland, CA. Anu also holds an MPH in Health Policy from the George Washington University School of Public Health. She grew up in the Washington DC area, and currently resides in Chevy Chase.

April Liu

Political and Reputational Vetting Research Associate

April Liu is a Research Associate with the Political and Repuational Vetting team. She attended Mount Holyoke College where she double majored in Economics and International Relations in 2022. Prior to joining Gravity Research, April worked at various think tanks and in legal research roles. She has works published at several outlets including The Hill, TownHall, and IPD. She was born and raised in Greater Vancouver, Canada, but currently resides in Virginia.

Benjamin Elias

Senior Stakeholder Influence Analysis Research Analyst

Benjamin Elias is a Senior Research Analyst at Gravity Research. Benjamin is a recent graduate of the University of Chicago where he majored in philosophy and minored in statistics. Before joining National Journal, Benjamin worked on various network mapping projects as a research assistant at the Chicago Project on Security and Threats. In addition to the various research projects he has been a part of, Benjamin helped found a healthy snack brand called Quevos, which is still in operation. Originally from Teaneck, New Jersey, Benjamin plans on moving to Washington D.C in the near future.

Blake Vieira

Senior Political and Reputational Vetting Research Associate

Blake Vieira is a Senior Research Associate with the Political and Reputational Vetting team. He joined National Journal in 2021 after graduating from American University with a BA in International Studies, where he focused on the Middle East, North Africa, and national security policy. He previously interned with Sen. Michael Bennet and Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton and most recently served as a research assistant for Wall Street Journal reporter Michael Gordon on his book "Degrade and Destroy: The War Against the Islamic State from Barack Obama to Donald Trump." Born in Riverside, CA and raised between there, Bellevue, WA and Castle Rock, CO, he currently lives in Washington, DC.

Chantal Elias

Associate Research Director, Societal and Reputational Intelligence

Chantal Elias is an Associate Research Director with Gravity Research. She graduated from Dartmouth College with a degree in International Relations and Climate Science in June 2022. Prior to joining National Journal, Chantal worked at a number of human rights and global affairs organizations, such as CARE USA, The Political Violence Fieldlab, Journalists for Human Rights, and the G20 Research Group. She also has spent several years working as a climate science researcher focused on Greenland. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Chantal now resides in Washington, D.C.

Chinelo Njubigbo

Senior Survey Analyst

Chinelo is a Senior Survey Analyst at Gravity Research. She holds a Master of Science degree in Epidemiology from Harvard University and a Bachelors degree in Public Health from Wayne State University. Chinelo has a passion for research and has held roles at Brown University and Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, where she focused on the impact of discrimination on reproductive health care and HPV-related health disparities, respectively. Prior to joining Gravity Research she worked as a Global Market Access Associate at Johnson and Johnson supporting projects centered on patient needs and clinical trials. Originally from Detroit, Michigan, she now calls DC home.

Crystal Styron

Senior Director of Societal and Reputational Intelligence

Crystal Styron is Gravity Research's Senior Director of Societal and Reputational Intelligence. In this role, Crystal leads Gravity Research's work with Fortune 500 companies in understanding, assessing, and addressing their key sociopolitical risk factors. Immediately prior to joining Gravity Research, Crystal served as DEI research team leader and senior principal at Gartner. Crystal originally hails from North Carolina. She graduated with a BA from Princeton University and an MA from Johns Hopkins School of Advance International Studies. She resides in Alexandria, VA.

Emma Calvo

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst

Emma is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst with Gravity Research. She graduated from U.C. Berkeley in 2022 with a double degree in Political Economics and Sociology. She has experience working at several non-profit organizations and conducting research for the Human Rights Investigations Lab at the U.C. Berkeley School of Law. Before Gravity Research she was doing market research and expert sourcing for private equity in San Francisco. Emma is originally from Falls Church, VA and currently resides in San Francisco.

Emma Hopler

Public Policy Research Analyst

Emma Hopler is a Public Policy Research Analyst for the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team at Gravity Research. She graduated from the George Washington University with a BA in International Affairs and a concentration in Gender. She also studied at the University of Amsterdam, where she focused on human trafficking prevention. Prior to Gravity Research, she held a number of politically focused internships including ones with EMILY’s List and The White House. Originally from Reading, Pennsylvania, Emma now lives in Washington D.C.

Gage Grispino

Health Policy Research Analyst

Gage Grispino is a Health Policy Research Analyst for the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team at Gravity Research. He graduated with a B.S. in Biochemistry and a certificate in American Constitutional Democracy from the University of Missouri’s Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy. Prior to Gravity Research, he worked within health policy research and health data analytics within the consulting and nonprofit spaces. Originally from Maryville, Missouri, Gage now lives in Washington D.C.

Hannah Cohen

Associate Research Director, Political and Reputational Vetting

Hannah Cohen is an Associate Research Director with Gravity Research's Political and Reputational Vetting team. She graduated from Davidson College in 2020 with a B.A. in History and Political Science. Prior to joining National Journal as a research associate in 2022, Hannah worked at a government affairs and strategic communications firm specializing in transportation and infrastructure policy. She grew up in New Jersey and currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Hannah Cohn

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate

Hannah Cohn is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate for Gravity Research. She graduated from Rutgers University- New Brunswick with a degree in Environmental Policy and a double minor in Political Science and Psychology. Prior to joining the National Journal, she worked for various political campaigns as well as environmental nonprofits and advocacy organizations. Although she is from New Jersey, she has been residing in California for the past two years and is currently in the process of relocating to Washington, D.C.

Ian Schurr

Senior Health Policy Research Analyst

Ian Schurr is a Senior Health Policy Research Analyst at Gravity Research's Stakeholder Influence Analysis team. Having joined National Journal in 2022, Ian handles a portfolio of cross-sector health clients focused on a wide range of policy topics. Ian completed his Master’s in Public Policy from the University of Virginia’s Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Government from the University of Virginia. Previously, Ian has interned for the Office of Management and Budget and the House Committee on Appropriations. Originally from Alexandria, Virginia, Ian now resides in Washington, DC.

Jaimee Simwinga

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst

Jaimee Simwinga is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst with Gravity Research. She graduated from Princeton University in 2023 with a degree in Anthropology and a certificate in African American Studies. Prior to joining the National Journal, Jaimee worked at the Field Museum, the Princeton University Art Museum, and Westside Housing, an affordable housing organization. She has also served as a qualitative researcher for a group focused on young adult relational health. Originally from Kansas, Jaimee currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Jamada Garner

Government Business Analyst

Jamada Garner is a Government Business Analyst for Gravity Research. Jamada was an intern for the Congressional Black caucus foundation where he interned under Representative Steve Cohen. Originally from Tennessee, Jamada graduated from Vanderbilt University, where he earned his Bachelor's in Public Policy. During his time he studied political science and French and interned with local campaigns during midterms. He currently resides in Knoxville, TN.

James Ween

Research Director, Stakeholder Influence Analysis

James Ween is a Research Director for the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team at Gravity Research. He received a dual BA in Economics and Political Science from the University of Washington in Seattle. While an undergraduate, James wrote his senior thesis examining private sector influence on monetary policy decisions at the Federal Reserve and the Bank of Canada. Prior to joining National Journal, James worked in market research for a private equity firm focused in the energy sector. A proud Pacific Northwesterner, James currently resides in Washington, DC.

Jane Ann Langford

Senior Political and Reputational Vetting Research Associate

Jane Ann Langford is a Senior Research Associate with the Political and Reputational Vetting team. She joined National Journal in 2023 after graduating from the University of Virginia with her Master’s in Public Policy and a B.A. in Foreign Affairs. Prior to joining the National Journal, Jane Ann completed internships in research and non-profit organizations. She grew up in Birmingham, Alabama and currently lives in Washington, DC.

Jena Kanji

Research Director, Societal and Reputational Intelligence

Jena Kanji is a Research Director for the Societal and Reputational Intelligence team at Gravity Research. Prior to joining National Journal, Jena worked as a Management Consultant Associate for L.E.K. Consulting. Jena graduated from Georgetown University in 2019 where she majored in International Political Economy & Business with a minor in Arabic and a certificate in Entrepreneurship. She is originally from Long Island, New York, but currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Jessica Copenhaver

Associate Research Director, Political and Reputational Vetting

Jessica Copenhaver is an Associate Research Director with Gravity Research’s Political and Reputational Vetting team. She graduated from the Georgia Institute of Technology with a B.S. in Public Policy. Jessica has worked as a policy researcher with non-profits, academic institutions, and private entities. She is from Houston, Texas, and currently resides in North Carolina.

Joseph Andersen-Stanley

Senior Political and Reputational Vetting Research Associate

Joseph Andersen-Stanley is a Senior Research Associate with the Political and Reputational Vetting Team. He graduated from Utah Valley University with a B.S. in Political Science and minors in Philosophy and Constitutional Studies. Before coming to National Journal, Joseph worked on the Quill Project, a digital humanities project based at Pembroke College, where he researched negotiations made by US constitutional conventions in the late 1800's. He is also an award-winning songwriter. Originally from Provo, Utah, he currently lives with his wife in Arlington, Virginia.

Kamaan Richards

Senior Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst

Kamaan is a Senior Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst on Gravity Research's Societal & Reputational Intelligence team. He served in the United States Marine Corps from 2012-2017, then went on to graduate from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s of Political Science. He recently completed a master’s degree in Security Studies at Georgetown University. Originally from Houston, TX, Kamaan currently lives and works in Minneapolis, MN. Prior to joining Gravity Research, Kamaan served as the Multimedia Editor for the Minnesota Daily, and supported the Minnesota State Legislature.

Kelly Bruner

Social Impact & Reputational Risk Analyst

Kelly Bruner is a Social Impact & Reputational Risk Analyst with Gravity Research. She joined National Journal from Forward Risk, a boutique corporate risk and political opposition research firm. Previously, she worked for a non-profit in Austin, TX analyzing consumer experience of the international remittance market. Kelly is a graduate of Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service with a degree in International Political Economy. Though she originally hails from Northern California, Kelly now considers Washington D.C. as home.

Kevin Pollack

Associate Research Director, Stakeholder Influence Analysis

Kevin Pollack is an Associate Research Director for the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team at Gravity Research. He graduated from Georgetown University with a degree in International Politics and a minor in Music. Before joining National Journal, Kevin worked at an environmental advocacy group, where he monitored federal legislation and contributed to lobbying efforts. Originally from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Kevin now resides in Washington, DC.

Luke Benson

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate

Luke is excited to join the team as a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate. He studied Psychology at UC Berkeley with an emphasis on political psychology and research. He previously worked as a student researcher for the UC Center Sacramento and interned at the Fair Political Practices Commission where he conducted research on campaigns and elections. This past year he studied abroad in Berlin where he completed a research project on political polarization. He just moved from the Bay Area to Washington DC and is excited to explore!

Madison Greenhall

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate

Madison Greenhall is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate for Gravity Research. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a degree in Exercise and Sports Science and subsequently, recently completed an MSc from King’s College London in Global Health and Social Justice. Prior to joining the National Journal, she completed an internship at a specialist think tank and is a published researcher. Madison is from Charlotte, NC, but currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Mary Banks

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst

Mary Banks is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst with Gravity Research. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters of Public Policy degree in May 2023. Originally from Salt Lake City, Utah, she now resides in Los Angeles, California.

Michael Decker

Research Director, Stakeholder Influence Analysis

Michael Decker is a Research Director for the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team. Prior to joining National Journal, Michael served as a Director within the Stand Together philanthropic community leading research for policy campaigns. He worked directly with nonprofits and foundations on advocacy efforts focused on healthcare, fiscal policy, and criminal justice reform. He received his Master’s of Science degree in Applied Economics from the University of Maryland and holds a Bachelor’s degree from The George Washington University. Originally from Savannah, GA, Michael currently resides in Washington, DC.

Peter Kaufmann

Senior Social Impact & Reputational Risk Analyst

Peter Kaufmann is a Senior Social Impact & Reputational Risk Analyst with the Stakeholder Influence Analysis. He obtained a B.A. in Anthropology and an M.A. in Public Anthropology from American University, the latter of which he completed in the summer of 2022. Prior to joining the National Journal, Peter worked at the media nonprofit The Institute for Public Accuracy, and also served as a Research Assistant under two anthropologists within his graduate department. Originally from Silver Spring, Maryland, Peter has recently moved to the Woodley Park neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Priyanka Sookhai

Senior Political and Reputational Vetting Research Associate

Priyanka Sookhai is a Senior Research Associate with the Political and Reputational Vetting team. She recently graduated from the University of Virginia with a B.A. in American Studies and a concentration in Popular and Visual Culture. Prior to joining National Journal, Priyanka interned as a research associate for a community and economic development consulting firm. She currently resides in her hometown of Miami, Florida.

Ripley Hunter

Associate Research Director, Procurement Influence Mapping

Ripley Hunter is an Associate Research Director with Gravity Research's Procurement Influence Mapping team. Before joining National Journal, Ripley worked as a Researcher at the Center for a New American Security and previously interned at the U.S. Department of Defense’s Near East South Asia Center for Strategic Studies. Ripley holds an M.A. in Security Policy Studies from the George Washington University and a B.A. in International Security from San Diego State. Originally from Northern California, he currently resides in Washington, DC.

Sarah Adkins

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate

Sarah Adkins is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Associate with Gravity Research. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University in the spring of 2022 with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in history. Prior to joining National Journal, Sarah interned for U.S. Congressman Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-02). She has also spent time working and volunteering with various organizations that promote the rights of women and the prevention of gender violence. Sarah has an interest in human rights, especially political violence and international law. She is originally from Baltimore, Maryland and currently resides in Northern Baltimore County.

Sophia Dinman

Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Analyst

Sophia Dinman is a Social Impact and Reputational Risk Research Analyst with Gravity Research. She obtained a B.A. in Political Science with minors in History and Environmental Studies from Seton Hall University. Additionally, she earned a certificate in Leadership from the Buccino Leadership Institute where she was also employed as the Institute’s Director of Strategic Communications. Her prior work experience involves internships with Senator Cory Booker, the Office of the Secretary of the Senate, and a New York City based political consulting firm. Sophia currently resides in the Northern Virginia area.

Troy Looper

Senior Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst

Troy Looper serves as a Senior Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst for Gravity Research. Before joining the National Journal, Troy was a public school teacher with Teach for America in Hawaii where he completed his Master's in Education through Chaminade University. He earned his B.S. from Brigham Young University where he majored in Sociology with minors in Business Management and International Development. He has previously interned for several corporations helping to improve their corporate social responsibility efforts, including Microsoft and as a program evaluator in Malawi for Nu Skin Enterprises. Troy is a native of Jacksonville, Florida and currently resides in Arlington, VA.

Taylor Amey

Senior Public Policy Research Analyst

Taylor Amey is a Senior Public Policy Research Analyst with the Stakeholder Influence Analysis team. Prior to joining National Journal, Taylor worked for Blue Compass Strategies, a political consulting firm where he performed opposition and political research. He was raised in Davenport, Iowa, before attending George Washington University, where he double majored in Political Science and Communication. His senior thesis was a rhetorical analysis on the public debate surrounding the 2013 immigration reform bill. Taylor lives in Arlington, Virginia.

Tyson Rhodes

Senior Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst

Tyson Rhodes is a Senior Social Impact and Reputational Risk Analyst with Gravity Research. Prior to joining the National Journal, Tyson worked at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. During that same time he received his Master's in Public Policy from Pepperdine University. He is originally from California and still resides there.

Katie Collins

Chief Revenue Officer

Katie Collins is the Chief Revenue Officer at Gravity Research. In this role, she manages the company’s relationships with heads of government affairs at Fortune 500 companies and leaders of industry trade associations and oversees business development strategy. In her previous role as vice president of development, Katie successfully launched the Stakeholder Influence Analysis and managed National Journal’s strategic advertising relationships. She also helped lead the transition of National Journal’s client base from individual subscriptions to organizational memberships as National Journal shifted from a media company to a consulting model providing research and advisory services. Katie’s prior experience spans nearly 15 years in business development and advocacy at National Journal, Corporate Executive Board, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Katie is a graduate of Georgetown University. She lives in Washington, D.C. with her husband.

Allyson Grennille

Executive Director of Partnerships and Strategy

Allyson Grennille is the Executive Director of Partnerships and Strategy. In this role, she oversees partnership development and account management across Stakeholder Influence Analysis's portfolio of clients. Allyson has worked in the research and advisory services space for more than a decade and is passionate about building strategic, insghts-driven partnerships with clients to help them realize their goals. Prior to National Journal, Allyson was a Senior Managing Director at Hanover Research, where she oversaw the company's Corporate practice, including both research and revenue operations. She has an M.A. in Sociology from the University of Chicago and currently resides in New Jersey with her husband and daughter.

Anne Koloski

Client Engagement and Operations Associate

Anne Koloski is a new Client Engagement and Operations Associate joining the Gravity Research revenue team. She is a recent graduate of Appalachian State University, where she studied political science with a concentration in pre-law and a minor in criminal justice. She previously worked as a legal assistant for a family law firm. She grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, and has just moved to Washington DC.

Jackie Breuer

Executive Director of Partnerships and Strategy

Jackie Breuer is the executive director, partnering with clients of the Societal and Reputational Intelligence and government affairs work. Jackie has been working with government affairs and corporate affairs professionals for almost a decade. Originally, hailing from Northern California, she moved to DC to attend American University and has called it home ever since.

Jimmy Howard

Client Partnership Associate

Jimmy Howard serves as a Client Partnership Associate on the Gravity Research Revenue team. In this role, he specializes in building and cultivating partnerships for clients involved in Societal Reputational Intelligence as well as Stakeholder Influence Analysis. He graduated from the University of Colorado in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in History. In recent years, Jimmy has interned in the Colorado House of Representatives as a Legislative Assistant and at The Heritage Foundation on the Development team. Jimmy is originally from Maryland but has lived a majority of his life in Colorado. He currently resides in Washington DC and is grateful to call this area his home once again.

Lizzy Andrew

Director of Strategic Partnerships

Lizzy Andrew serves as the Director of Strategic Partnerships for Gravity Research. In her role she leads engagement and relationship building for Stakeholder Influence Analysis's existing Core Government Affairs and Societal Issues clients. Her previous roles at National Journal have included working as the Capitol Hill liaison and managing a portfolio of client revenue for National Journal's subscription services. You can also occasionally catch Lizzy voicing the advertisements for the National Journal Radio Podcast. Prior to National Journal, she worked as the Student Engagement Specialist for the Rome School of Music, Drama, and Art at her alma mater and as a professional actress performing at a number of theaters across the DC area. Originally from Holland, MI, she graduated from the Catholic University of America with a Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre.

Katherine Terminella

Director of Strategic Partnerships and Chair of the Communications Committee

Katherine Terminella is the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Chair of the Communications Committee with Gravity Research. In this role, she oversees client management and new business for the Political and Reputational Vetting service, along with assisting Gravity Research in communications strategy. She is an alumna of Baylor University where she earned a B.A. in Political Science, and holds a Masters degree in Corporate Communications from Georgetown University. Prior to National Journal, Katherine gained experience at two non-profit organizations and a government office. Originally from Waxahachie, TX, Katherine currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Kira Bannister

Manager of Strategic Partnerships

Kira Bannister is a Manager of Strategic Partnerships on the Gravity Research revenue team working on the Societal and Reputational Intelligence work. She graduated from the University of Virginia (Wahoowa!) with a BA in Foreign Affairs and a BA in English Literature. Previously she has interned with the Treasury Department, Mines Advisory Group, the Be Good Foundation, and worked on a campaign in the VA-05. She currently lives in Washington, D.C. and is originally from San Antonio, TX.

Masih Khybari

Director of Partnership and Strategy

Masih Khybari is the Director of Partnership and Strategy for Gravity Research. Prior to joining the National Journal, Masih served as Counselor at the Friends of the American University of Afghanistan, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to higher education and economic development in Afghanistan. Masih holds an MSc from the London School of Economics in International Relations Theory and a LL.B. from Staffordshire University, where he focused on International Law. Masih serves on the Advisory Board of Women Forward International (WFI) and lives in Washington, D.C.

Molly Donnelly

Senior Manager, Partnerships and Strategy

Molly Donnelly serves as Senior Manager, Partnerships and Strategy on the Revenue Team for Gravity Research. In this role, she is primarily responsible for client onboarding and revenue operations for the Societal and Reputational Intelligence service as well as coordination of Gravity Research's virtual and in-person events. Prior to joining National Journal, Molly worked in corporate event management organizing and hosting conferences for C-suite executives across the US. Molly is a graduate of the University of Maryland, where she obtained a BA in Communications, and she currently lives in Bethesda, MD.

Ryan DeRosa

Client Engagement Associate

Ryan DeRosa serves as a Client Engagement Associate on the Gravity Research Revenue Team. He recently graduated from the University of Delaware with a Dual Bachelors of Arts in Environmental Studies and Public Policy, with minors in Sustainable Infrastructure, Planning and Design and Historic Preservation. Over the past few years, Ryan interned for NYC Council Member Gale Brewer, the New Castle County Land Use Department, and recently finished up as a legislative intern in the office of U.S. Senator Tom Carper (D-DE). Originally from Long Island, New York, he currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Wyatt Hudgens

Revenue Operations Manager and Executive Assistant to the Chief Revenue Officer

Wyatt Hudgens is the Revenue Operations Manager and Executive Assistant to the Chief Revenue Officer. He previously supported the president of National Journal, the president of National Journal Membership, and the president of National Journal Research as the Executive Assistant. Prior to joining National Journal, Wyatt interned for Protegrity, a cybersecurity and data protection company in Salt Lake City, Utah. Additionally, Wyatt interned for the U.S. Department of State in the Bureau of Legislative Affairs. Wyatt graduated from the University of Utah with a B.S. in Political Science and a B.S. in Economics. Originally from Park City, UT, Wyatt currently resides in Washington, D.C.

Lesley Martinez

Vice President, Marketing

Lesley Martinez is Vice President of Marketing and Product where she is responsible for developing Gravity Research's marketing strategy and vision as well as overseeing marketing operations, events, and creatives. Prior to National Journal, Lesley spent six years at CEB where she managed demand generation, acquisition marketing, and retention strategies for their finance clients both in the large enterprise and SMB space. Before that, she was at The Chronicle of Higher Education/The Chronicle of Philanthropy managing marketing efforts for corporate advertisers and new product launches. Lesley is a D.C. native and attended James Madison University in Harrisonburg, VA. She lives in Virginia with her husband and two daughters.

Audrey Williams

Marketing Manager

Audrey Williams is a Marketing Manager at National Journal Group. Prior to joining the marketing team, Audrey worked as the government and external affairs coordinator at the Cato Institute. She also served in Rep. Justin Amash’s D.C. office for four years, starting as an intern and departing as legislative correspondent. Audrey graduated from Taylor University with a degree in political science and international studies. She grew up in Canton, Ohio, and currently lives in Washington, D.C.

Brian Tourellas

Graphic Design Associate

Brian Torruellas is a Graphic Design Associate for National Journal. He graduated from Maryland Institute College of Art, where he earned a degree in Graphic Design. After spending 15 years as a Pastry Chef, he pivoted careers to pursue his passion for art and design. Originally from Yonkers, New York, Brian moved to Washington DC in 2010 where he currently resides with his wife and son.

Chris Holden

Marketing Operations Specialist

Chris Holden is the Marketing Operations Specialist for National Journal Group. He manages marketing automation software and executes a variety of campaigns that serve the team’s overall goal of attracting and retaining members. Prior to this role, Chris worked at strategy firms, PACs and established his own start-up consulting firm in marketing and research roles. He graduated from George Mason with a degree in Government and International Politics, and currently lives in Arlington, VA.

Jesse Chimes

Senior Director of Marketing

Jesse Chimes is the Senior Director of Marketing for National Journal Group. He helps develop and implement strategies to expand National Journal’s membership base and strengthen its brand positioning. Jesse graduated from American University and lives in Washington, DC.

Katherine Bennett

Events and Marketing Specialist

Katherine Bennett is an Events and Marketing Specialist at the National Journal Group. She graduated from St. Mary’s College of Maryland in 2022 with a degree in Political Science and Public Policy. Prior to this role, she worked as a staff assistant for a Maryland based lobbying firm and has experience in the Maryland General Assembly. Originally from Annapolis, MD, she now lives in Washington, DC where she enjoys going to museums, and trying new restaurants with friends.

Sara Stanton

Creative Lead

Sara Stanton is the creative lead at National Journal Group. Prior to joining National Journal, Sara led their own graphic design studio specializing in data visualization and social impact. Sara holds a masters degree from the Maryland Institute College of Art and an undergraduate degree from the University of Vermont. Originally from New Hampshire, Sara lives in Virginia with their wife and dog

Rebecca Katona

Chief Administrative Officer

Rebecca Katona is the Chief Administrative Officer, leading National Journal Group's human resources team. Since joining NJ in 2013 to run Membership Events, Rebecca has served in a half dozen people operations-focused roles, including as NJ's Chief of Staff, Atlantic Media's Director of Talent & Culture, and AtlanticLIVE's Executive Director. Previously, Rebecca led a nonprofit higher education forum for promising domestic and international undergraduates. A native of Columbus, OH, and proud graduate of The Ohio State University, Rebecca lives on Capitol Hill with her husband Joey and their three sons: Calvin, Winston, and Truman.

Elli Miller

Employee Experience and Wellness Manager

Elli Kennedy Miller is the Employee Experience and Wellness Manager on the Talent and Culture team. Previous to this role, she worked for 2 years in people operations for a Utah based tech start up called Chatbooks. Elli is a Colorado native and a proud graduate of Brigham Young University. She is currently attending graduate school at Georgetown University alongside her husband. They reside in downtown DC.

Isabel Levatino

Executive Assistant

Isabel Levatino is the Executive Assistant to the President of Gravity Research and the COO/CFO of National Journal. She recently graduated from the University of Delaware with a degree in Psychology and Criminal Justice, and a minor in Spanish. During her time in Delaware, Isabel interned for the Federal U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, as well as was involved in many activities on campus. Isabel graduated as a McNair Scholar and was awarded the UD Benjamin McLuckie award for her commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. She is excited to start her professional career with National Journal and explore Washington D.C.

Kevin Ponder

Associate Director of Operations

Kevin Ponder is the Associate Director of Operations at National Journal Group. He manages the onsite operations and responsibilities that are required to run the National Journal offices. Prior to National Journal, he worked in both Human Resources and Facilities Management roles at Spire Energy in St. Louis, MO. He received his B.S. in Psychology from the Missouri University of Science and Technology, and his M.A. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville. Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, Kevin now lives in Washington, DC.

Shaly Joseph

Associate Director of Recruiting

Shaly Joseph is the Associate Director of Recruiting for National Journal Group. Prior to joining the team, Shaly served as the Assistant Director of Membership and Intern Operations at NASPA-Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education. During her tenure at NASPA, Shaly managed membership initiatives, implemented strategic renewals campaigns, and developed short and long term data reporting solutions. In addition, she launched a robust internship program providing students with professional development opportunities that support their particular career interests/goals. Earlier, she worked in the Professional & Liberal Studies admissions office at Saint’s Joseph’s University, planning orientation and other recruitment events. Originally from Pennsylvania, Shaly earned a B.A from Saint Joseph’s University in Political Science with concentrations in History, Asian Studies and European Politics.

Afzal Bari

Chief Financial Officer and Chief Strategy Officer

Afzal Bari serves as CFO and CSO for National Journal Group. Afzal previously held roles at Bloomberg Government, Corporate Executive Board, Capco Consulting, and several startups. Afzal holds an MBA from Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, undergraduate degrees from the University of Maryland College Park, and is a CFA Charterholder. He lives in Chevy Chase, Md. with his wife and two children.

Edgard Lacayo

Accounts Receivable Specialist

Edgard Lacayo serves as the Accounts Receivable Specialist on the Finance team. Originally from Managua, Nicaragua, he graduated from Roanoke College with a BBA and a concentration in Finance and another concentration in Latin American and Caribbean Studies. In his previous position, he worked as an accounting assistant in Nicaragua. During his time at Roanoke College, he served as a research assistant to multiple professors in the Modern Languages and History departments as well as a staff reporter for the college’s student run newspaper, The Brackety Ack. He currently resides in Annandale, Virginia.

Michael Breton

Assistant Controller

Michael Breton serves as Assistant Controller for both National Journal Group and Bradley Media Holdings. Prior to joining the company in 2018 as a staff accountant, he worked at Plex Systems in Reston, VA and Wedding Wire in Chevy Chase, MD. A Marylander at heart, Michael attended The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in NY, New York due to his love of Society, the fashion industry, European history and literature, pop culture and the arts, majoring in Advertising and Marketing Communications. Realizing that his home and heart belonged in the DMV area, he then moved back to the DC metropolitan area to be close with his family and to pursue a career in business and accounting. He earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Accounting and Business Management from the University of Maryland, University College. Michael lives in Bethesda, MD and enjoys a buttered lobster roll in Annapolis, MD once in a while.

Chris Dornfeld

Senior Vice President, Technology

Chris Dornfeld is senior vice president of technology at National Journal, where he’s responsible for crafting and executing the vision for NJ’s interactive offerings and overseeing information technology. Prior to National Journal, Chris held senior leadership roles in engineering and analytics at Manifest and co-founded a DC-based web development firm. Chris holds a B.S. in computer science from Carnegie Mellon and is widely recognized for typing very fast and very loud. He lives in Washington.

Andrew Littler

Senior Web Developer

Andrew Littler is a Senior Web Developer with National Journal Group. He graduated from University of St. Thomas in Minnesota with a B.A. in Computer Science. Prior to joining National Journal, Andrew worked in various IT related roles at different companies. He currently lives in Minnesota.