From Protest to Policy: Turning Advocacy into Action
Session 2 of “Small Actions, Big Shifts: Reclaiming Civic Power in Times of Fatigue”
Tuesday, February 24, 2026 | 6:30–8:00 PM | Virtual
About This Session
Change doesn’t only happen through large-scale movements or formal leadership roles. It happens when everyday people take small, intentional actions that influence the systems shaping their communities.
This session focuses on reclaiming civic power in realistic, sustainable ways— especially for people who care deeply but may have limited time, energy, or access. With advice and practical tools, From Protest to Policy explores how advocacy moves from passion to impact through everyday participation.
Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of how local systems work, where influence actually lives, and how even one small action can contribute to lasting change.
What You’ll Learn
Together, we’ll explore:
How advocacy translates into policy and systems change
What civic participation looks like beyond voting or protests
Where leverage exists in local decision-making and governance
How to stay engaged without burnout or overwhelm
Featured Panelists
April Riddick
April Riddick is a county leader who brings a community-centered lens to public service, with policy oversight spanning human services, justice-system operations, and long-range planning. Through key leadership and committee roles, her work sits at the intersection of resident well-being, equity, and systems accountability. She is deeply engaged in community life and prioritizes policies that expand access to public spaces, transportation, infrastructure investment, and sustainable development that serves the full geography of the county.
Maraleen Shields, Esq.
Maraleen Shields is the Executive Director for The Pennsylvania Interbranch Commission for Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Fairness. Her work bridges the courts, the legal profession, and policy spaces, with a focus on equity-driven systems change and professional accountability. She is widely recognized for her leadership, mentorship, and contributions to statewide initiatives advancing fairness, inclusion, and institutional trust.
Nichole K. Mayers, J.D.
Nichole K. Mayers is a media and communications professional with a legal background, known for helping individuals navigate high-stakes decisions with clarity and confidence. Her experience spans investor relations, strategic communication, and legal training, bringing a disciplined, detail-forward approach to complex decision-making. She is recognized for translating information into practical understanding that supports informed action.
Moderator
Andrea Grannum-Mosley, Ed.D.
Dr. Andrea Grannum-Mosley is an HR leader and Army Veteran with more than 15 years of experience across workforce development, higher education, and people operations. She is deeply committed to advancing equity-driven education and workforce pathways, particularly for students and veterans. Her work blends strategy, lived experience, and systems thinking to support sustainable outcomes for individuals and institutions alike.
Who Should Attend
Community members who want to engage without burning out
People curious about advocacy but unsure where to start
Anyone looking for practical, realistic ways to influence change
Those interested in the connection between lived experience, policy, and power
Cost
$25.00 / $10.00 for students or seniors.
Advance registration required.