ADE A. SAWYER
Communications Strategist
PROFESSIONAL PROFILE
I began my career at Weber Shandwick — one of the world's leading strategic communications firms — where I led projects and managed teams that counseled corporate, government and nonprofit clients, while devising and implementing strategies tailored to their goals. Much of my work focused on global energy and sustainability in the firm's Public Affairs practice.
After seven years with the firm in D.C., I was assigned to a 14-month project in the Middle East, building global communications capacity for a leading manufacturer.
In 2020 I pivoted to politics, briefly working on Elizabeth Warren's Presidential Campaign, then joining The Hub Project — a progressive advocacy group based in D.C. In 2022, I refocused on my hometown of Atlanta, working on behalf of a local education advocacy group. I'm currently seeking opportunities to pair my love of my hometown with my passion for climate action and sustainability.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
RON BROWN SCHOLARSHIP
2012 - 2018
The Ron Brown Scholarship is awarded annually to African American high school seniors of outstanding promise. I served in leadership roles for the Ron Brown Scholars Alumni Association from 2012 to 2018, helping to maintain strong connections among our community of 400+ scholars and alumni, while guiding our organizational strategy. I remain an active member of the group.
HIGHER ACHIEVEMENT
2012 - Present
I serve on the board of Higher Achievement a nonprofit that provides a a rigorous, year-round enrichment program for middle school students in Washington D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA. I also served for six years as a volunteer in D.C., working with 5-8th grade students to improve their reading and analytical skills.
THINGS I LOVE
Because I'm a Real Person!
TRAVEL
Before moving abroad, I had never been outside the U.S. for more than a few days at a time. But since then I've tried to make a habit of visiting new places and seeking new experiences. (Except in the first two years of the pandemic.)
HIKING
Growing up in Atlanta, I occasionally got a taste of the great outdoors, but in the past few years it's become a passion. Living in D.C., I often hiked in Virginia, Maryland and Pennsylvania, and I hope to do more around the world.
PHOTOGRAPHY
I occasionally did professional photography as a student, and it's still a hobby I'm passionate about. (Most of the photos on this page are mine!)
RUNNING
In the past few years I've become an avid runner, and I'm hoping to get even better. This year I'm training to run my first half marathon!