Thomas J. Lucas

About Thomas J. Lucas

Dynamic legislative affairs professional with nearly a decade of experience in federal policy development, advocacy, and implementation, specializing in education, housing and homelessness, civil rights, aging, and health policy. Skilled in advancing legislative and regulatory strategies through advocacy, stakeholder engagement, negotiations, research, and appropriations oversight. Known for building strong relationships and leading initiatives that deliver meaningful policy change.

Experience

1. Senior Manager, Federal Policy

   Schoolhouse Connection

   Oct 2023 — Present · Washington, DC, US

   Monitor and analyze federal legislation and regulations related to the early care, education, and well-being of children and youth experiencing homelessness- Stay informed about developments and trends in early care, K12 education, higher education, housing, and homelessness that relate to SHC’s policy agenda; anticipate emerging issues and help position SHC to address those issues- Collaborate with SHC staff and SHC’s practitioner network to ensure that SHC’s federal policy advocacy is informed by and reflects the realities of local communities and the lived experience of children, youth, and families experiencing homelessness- Develop and promote SHC’s policy positions relating to early childhood through postsecondary education, as well as housing, income, and other related policy areas- Write issue briefs, position papers, public comments, talking points, and other policy-related documents and materials for a wide range of audiences- Write action alerts, talking points, newsletter articles, blogs, and other materials to inform, mobilize, and engage SHC’s network and partners in federal policy advocacy- Organize and connect members of SHC’s grassroots network directly to federal policymakers through virtual and in-person meetings, in collaboration with other SHC staff- Identify and take advantage of opportunities for using media to reach policymakers and shape public opinion related to SHC’s federal policy goals (op-eds, letters to the editor, social media, etc.)- Represent SHC on policy-related coalitions and at relevant policy-related meetings, trainings, and conferences- Identify, develop, and nurture collaborative relationships with national organizations that contribute to the realization of SHC’s mission and strategic objectives.

Education

• University of Charleston

  Bachelor's degree, Political Science and Government

  2011 — 2015

• Tug Valley High School

  Diploma, Business Administration, Management and Operations

  2007 — 2011

Skills

• Leadership
• Blogging
• Public Speaking
• Program Management
• Internet
• Microsoft Office
• Politics
• Civil Rights
• Community Outreach
• Communication
• Public Policy
• Customer Service
• Technology
• Interviews
• Social Media
• Public Relations