Pat Leahy '97 and Guide Dog Hogan
Senior Advisor for Government Affairs and Public Policy, U.S. Election Assistance Commission
Advocate. Hard working. Fun-loving.
“As a social guy, I love engaging people, answering their questions and discussing all topics – including my own obstacles. Life presents all of us with challenges, but I strongly believe there is always a way to overcome them. MU taught me that my opportunities to learn and grow are almost unlimited. Whether great friends, talented professors, or fun times, the 'Ville helps me to this day.”
Current City: Washington, DC
MU Degree(s): B.A. in Political Science
’Ville for Life Snapshots
- Politically savvy professional with expertise in public policy, philanthropy, stakeholder outreach, strategic communications, and management.
- Direct and develop projects for presidentially appointed Commissioners, focusing on the implementation of comprehensive national election reform legislation, the “Help America Vote Act of 2002.”
- Advise the Commissioners and Executive Director on best practices for managing a 45-member staff with a $14,000,000 budget targeting policy issues, technology access initiatives, and strategic planning.
- Develop new initiatives for the Commission, including the Wounded Warrior Research Project, a $2,500,000 program targeted at improving voting processes and technology for over 30,000 disabled military personnel.
- Enjoys helping our nation’s wounded warriors, amateur bodybuilding, swimming, reading and being an avid baseball fan.
- 2023 Keynote Speaker at the Undergraduate ceremony for the College of Education and Human Services.
- 2014 MU Young Alumni Achievement Award Recipient.
- Former MUAA Board member and active attendee at alumni events in the DC region.
- MU One Day Give Ambassador.
- Advocator and creator of documentary, “Blind Lifter.”
While attending Millersville University...
Patrick wrestled for the school’s nationally recognized Division I program and served as President of Student Senate. He graduated with honors from Millersville University with majors in Political Science and History. Professionally, Patrick’s career encompasses service under Members of Congress, a Cabinet Secretary, and currently the U.S. federal government. His drive to impact the lives of people with disabilities led him to his current position as Senior Advisor at the United States Election Assistance Commission. There he helps state and local governments improve election conditions for all people.
Patrick began to focus on his body and become a competitive body builder and created a documentary called “Blind Lifter.” He uses bodybuilding to inspire people. Patrick has been featured in the Washington Post and was a guest on NBC’s Today Show.