Policy and Development Specialist
Allie joined DRI in July 2026 as the Policy and Development Specialist. This isn’t her first time with DRI as Allie previously served as the Communications and Voting Intern from 2021 to 2023, where she discovered a strong commitment to civic engagement. Allie earned her bachelor’s degree in history and disability studies from Simpson College. At Simpson, she co-founded an organization for students with disabilities called A.C.E.S. (Advocacy, Community, Education, and Support). Allie graduated from the University of Iowa with her Masters of Public Affairs in 2026. During graduate school, Allie focused on healthcare, disability, and housing policy while partnering with the City of West Branch to develop its five-year Capital Improvement Plan. Allie is passionate about using research, data, and public policy to create meaningful change for her fellow Iowans with disabilities. In her role, she’s excited to put those skills to work to support DRI’s advocacy and development efforts. Outside of work, Allie can be found reading a book, watching sports or reality television, and enjoying time with her family, friends, and cantankerous cat, Gracie.
