September 2018
Avery Gordon
BA International Studies (International Security, Norms and Cooperation) ‘18
Hometown: All over the world–I grew up in a military family!
University of Michigan Affiliations: Public Service Intern Program, Center for Entrepreneurship, Sigma Iota Rho–Honor Society for International Studies
“Startup companies have an increasingly impactful role on shaping global policies. As the issues facing our world become more complex, we need more innovative solutions. During my time at the University of Michigan’s Program in International and Comparative Studies, I became aware of the importance of small businesses in creating global change. I pursued career opportunities at companies actively working towards creating innovative solutions to global problems, and I realized that working at a startup company gives me a chance to have more of a direct impact on creating those solutions.
As a marketing associate at Lyft's Washington, D.C. office, I am able to execute a wide variety of initiatives that have a targeted impact on local communities, and represent and showcase the United States’ policies to the rest of the world on a global scale. Because Lyft is still a young company, I have the chance to contribute to new policies as the company continues to expand across the globe. Addressing the transportation needs of the future is not a new concept, but I am proud that Lyft is able to distinguish itself from other companies through the work we do daily to have a direct impact on local communities. Whether it's allowing passengers to donate their fare to a local women's shelter, providing rides to patients to ensure they are able to receive necessary healthcare, or addressing food disparity in economically disadvantaged areas, Lyft is providing innovative solutions to global problems–and I am so honored to be a part of that journey.”
