True leadership shines brightest in those who turn challenges into opportunities to help others. From the courtroom to the halls of Congress, and in the hearts of those they serve, leaders like Brian L. Schwalb, Heideh Shahmoradi, and Senator Susan Collins show how dedication and compassion can make a profound difference. Their journeys remind us that no matter our background or path, we can all play a role in creating a stronger, more just world.
Brian L. Schwalb – A Champion for Justice in the District of Columbia
Brian L. Schwalb has dedicated his legal career to using the law in the service of others. As the District of Columbia’s second independent elected Attorney General, Brian works tirelessly to make D.C. safer, healthier, and more equitable for all who live and work here. A third-generation Washingtonian, he brings a deep understanding of the community’s needs and a steadfast commitment to serving residents.
After graduating from Duke University and Harvard Law School and completing a judicial clerkship, Brian served as a trial attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice. There, he honed his skills and developed a passion for fairness and justice. He later moved into private practice, representing individuals, businesses, and families in high-stakes matters,often fighting for those injured by unconstitutional police force or defrauded of their assets.
Before being elected Attorney General, Brian held leadership roles at Venable LLP, including Vice Chairman and Partner-in-Charge of the D.C. office. His peers recognize him as a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, reflecting his integrity and commitment to justice. As Attorney General, Brian sees himself as the “people’s lawyer,” advancing the public interest and ensuring the law works for everyone.
Brian’s leadership is about more than just legal victories—it’s about building trust, advocating for D.C. autonomy, and empowering residents to shape a stronger, more just future.
Heideh Shahmoradi – From Sasha Bruce Youthwork Client to National Advocate
Heideh Shahmoradi’s story is one of resilience, determination, and coming full circle. As a high school senior, she participated in Sasha Bruce Youthwork’s Independent Living Program—a lifeline for young people transitioning into independence. Today, she’s a national transportation and housing policy leader and an advocate for ending youth homelessness.
With 24 years of federal service and experience in the private sector, Heideh co-founded O’Keeffe Shahmoradi Strategies LLC in 2018. Her firm provides strategic government affairs council, focusing on helping organizations navigate complex policy challenges. Previously, she served as Clerk and Staff Director for the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation and Housing, overseeing a budget of nearly $140 billion.
Heideh’s most significant achievement in this role was launching the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP) at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Drawing on her own experiences, she knew the importance of investing in programs that keep young people housed and safe. Testimonies from leaders like Deborah Shore and Cyndi Lauper before Congress helped generate bipartisan support for YHDP, which has secured over $500 million to date.
Today, Heideh proudly serves on the board of Sasha Bruce Youthwork, ensuring that future generations of youth have access to the same resources that supported her. Her dedication has earned her recognition from Bloomberg Government, The Hill, and the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics as a top lobbyist—proof of her skill and commitment to making real change.
Senator Susan Collins – A Steadfast Voice for Youth and Families
Senator Susan Collins has spent her career championing policies that support children, families, and communities. With over 9,000 consecutive votes in the U.S. Senate and a record of bipartisan collaboration, she’s a trusted leader whose work touches lives across the country.
Senator Collins authored the Safe Treatments and Opportunities to Prevent Pain Act, encouraging research into opioid alternatives. She co-authored the Infant Plan of Safe Care Act, which ensures that states provide care plans for substance-exposed infants, helping vulnerable families stay together and thrive. She also played a leadership role in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, which expanded prevention and treatment resources to address the opioid crisis.
Beyond addiction prevention, Senator Collins authored the Building Our Largest Dementia (BOLD) Infrastructure for Alzheimer’s Act, highlighting her attention to the needs of families across generations. She also founded the Center for Family Business at Husson University, supporting local entrepreneurs and family stability in Maine.
As Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and through her leadership on key Senate committees, Senator Collins directs funding to national priorities, including health, housing, and education—issues that matter deeply to families and youth.
Her recognition by the Lugar Center and Georgetown University as the most bipartisan senator underscores her commitment to working across the aisle to get things done. Senator Collins’ leadership reflects the values shared by organizations like Sasha Bruce Youthwork: that families and youth deserve the resources and support to thrive in the face of adversity.
Shared Values, Shared Vision
These three inspiring stories—Brian L. Schwalb’s unwavering advocacy for justice, Heideh Shahmoradi’s journey from youth client to national policy leader, and Senator Susan Collins’ steadfast dedication to families—remind us that leadership and compassion can drive real change. Whether through the courtroom, Congress, or community programs, each of these individuals demonstrates how personal commitment and public service can build stronger, healthier, and more just communities for all.
