Sydney Browne

What Did You Work On: I contributed to a policy report and created informative materials related to the structure and cost of community response teams/mobile crisis teams. During this process, I conducted research and formulated arguments to support the removal of police from mental health/substance abuse crisis response. I also recorded committee meetings of the Buffalo Common Council related to legislation, finance, and police oversight.

Summer Takeaway: This summer, I was blessed with experiences where I was able to participate in hands-on advocacy and coalition building. I was able to witness the beauty, challenges, and strength of communities and contribute toward real change in the city of Buffalo. After this summer, I feel better equipped to thrive in any environment I end up in post-graduation.

Why I Took the High Road: I took the High Road because I want to strengthen my affinity for action. Whether it pertains to an individual or a community, I want my work to mean something and implement real change.

Career Goals: After graduation, I want to work as a legal advocate within in the family unit (domestic violence, parental rights, child rights, etc.) for a few years. After earning this "real-world" experience, I plan on attending graduate school to pursue my Juris Doctorate and Masters in Social Work concurrently in order to become a family attorney.

Shout Out: To Micaela/Kricky/Cathy, thank you for opening up your hours, your homes, and your community to the High Road Fellows. To my supervisors Colleen and Tanvier, thank you for showing me how to appreciate the good and teaching me to rally against the bad in one's community. To my 2022 High Road cohort, thank you for giving me a great final summer as a college student with the unforgettable experiences and endless laughs.