Over the next few weeks, Groundwork Ohio is publishing a “Get to Know Groundwork” series, spotlighting members of our amazing team! This week, we’re getting to know Lysette Arnold, Groundwork Ohio’s Policy Assistant. Lysette is Groundwork Ohio’s newest team member, having joined us in March 2022.
As Groundwork Ohio’s Policy Assistant, Lysette Arnold supports strategic projects, campaigns, programs, events, and objectives that contribute to Groundwork’s growing policy development, coalition management, stakeholder engagement, and organizational expertise.
Lysette earned her bachelor’s degree in public leadership, management, and policy from the Ohio State University’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs. She specialized in race and public policy, served in the Public Affairs Multicultural Student Association, and worked for multiple social change organizations while at Ohio State.
Check out our Q&A with Lysette to learn more about why she’s a passionate advocate for young children and families in Ohio!
Q: What drew you to early childhood policy research and advocacy? Tell us more about your “why”!
A: Before working with Groundwork Ohio, I worked for a child care facility as an administrative assistant and toddler teacher. I saw first-hand what low-income parents must go through to support their family. I also faced how hard it was to run a successful child care program during the pandemic. Once I got my degree, I knew that I had the skills to help those families beyond the child care setting. My overwhelming love for the children in my class wakes me up in the morning and drives me to Groundwork Ohio.
Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received or a lesson that you’ve learned that has helped you in this work?
A: I’m the youngest of four children and my mother always told me that I was the only one she had time to sit down with and read. I could read full books at 2 years old! She couldn’t do that with my older siblings because she was younger and juggling work with three young kids. That story always motivates me to work towards helping families receive the support they need to set all of their children up for success.
Q: Groundwork Ohio’s word for 2022 is ELEVATE. What’s your word for 2022?
A: My word for 2022 is EVOLVE because this year I’m finally able to grow and evolve as a person. I’m fully stepping into adulthood and figuring out my purpose.
Q: When you aren’t advocating on behalf of young children and families, what do you enjoy doing?
A: I enjoy anything related to makeup. I started learning how to do makeup in 2020 and now I call myself a pro. I have a TikTok account where I experiment with new products, share new techniques, and just show off my beauty.
Q: Describe a scene from your vision of the future for Ohio’s youngest children and their caregivers.
A: I would love to see quality child care programs for all children, no matter their family income.