Leading with purpose: Tess Troha-Thompson ’06 on advocacy, female empowerment, and mentorship

Meet Washington, D.C. Network Leadership Council Member and Women’s Network Co-Chair Tess Troha-Thompson ’06

What Tess is up to now and reflecting on her time at the University

Share a bit about yourself and your current endeavors. What excites you most about your work or personal projects?

After graduating from the University of Rochester, I moved to Chicago and began working in public relations and affairs. In 2008, I leaped into the political world, joining my first campaign as a field organizer in Michigan for a candidate running for Congress. His victory led to another exciting opportunity—I moved to Washington, D.C., to work in his Capitol Hill office.

I spent five years on Capitol Hill in various roles including campaign manager for Congresswoman Louise Slaughter. This was a highlight of my career and personal life, bringing me back to Rochester, where I got to live out my college dream of living near Park Ave. I also LOVE that her professional papers are now archived at UR’s Rush Rhees Special Collections.

Since 2016, I’ve been with New Blue Interactive, a consulting firm focused on progressive digital advertising and fundraising. As Chief of Staff, I lead our team and manage client teams in digital strategy, communications, and fundraising.

I’m proud to have been named an AAPC 40 Under 40 honoree and included in City & State New York’s 2025 Political Consultants Power 100 List, thanks to my work with clients like Rochester’s Congressman Joe Morelle. My work continues to impact the Rochester community, which has greatly shaped who I am.

What are your most cherished memories from your time at the University of Rochester?

During my time at the University of Rochester, I was deeply involved in a range of activities, including being a tour guide with Meridian Society, a peer career advisor, president of College Democrats, and performing with OBOC and Chamber Singers. I was fortunate to form lasting friendships, some of which continue to this day, and I’ve built a strong network of mentors and mentees through the University.

The experiences I had, from public speaking to professional development training, significantly shaped my personal and professional growth. The critical thinking skills I developed have helped me think strategically and question assumptions. I’m grateful that my career has allowed me to reconnect with Rochester and the University, helping me see how they fit into the broader community. While I loved my time there, I’m proud to have contributed to strengthening the connection between the University and the city.

Volunteerism and making an impact

What sparked your initial interest in volunteering with the University? What role(s) have you held?

I’ve been involved as an alumni volunteer since pretty much right after graduation. At first, I did Admissions interviews and joined recruitment or admitted student events in Chicago to talk about my experience at the University and was a member of the Young Alumni Council and our 5-year Reunion committee. I even had the opportunity to come back to the University and be on a career panel about getting a job in politics.

When I moved to D.C., my involvement increased, and I added new roles! I have really enjoyed helping grow the Washington, D.C. Regional Network as a member of the Cabinet and as co-founder and co-chair of the D.C. Women’s Network. I think it is so critical to engage alumni at all stages of their lives and in a unique way that is most meaningful to them.

What have been some of your most rewarding and memorable experiences with the D.C. Women’s Network so far?

My favorite part of leading the D.C. Women’s Network is connecting different generations of grads who can lift each other up, inspire, and offer wisdom. Interestingly it goes both ways! A number of our older alumnae have become really inspired and learned from the younger alumnae as well! And, we all know that, in DC especially, who your “network” is can be a huge part of your ability to advance in your career.

I love that the University can be a part of someone’s life success after college. Working for Rochester’s own female Congresswoman and her role in supporting Rochester, really inspired me to want to continue to be a part of that tradition of female mentorship and it has been such a rewarding experience!

How has your work in the Washington, D.C. area influenced your approach to mentoring or supporting the next generation of leaders, particularly women?

In my role as Chief of Staff at New Blue (and throughout my career), I have always valued mentoring as a key part of both my own personal growth and as a way to embody the spirit of Meliora. I have had the opportunity to mentor students as interns, entry-level staff, and as more informal relationships that formed through alumni events, informational interviews, or through the Meliora Collective.

The University offers great resources, and understanding how to use them, ask the right questions, and listen effectively are key skills I aim to help others develop. These skills are important at any career stage, whether you’re just starting out or further along. I learn so much from interacting with younger people and always aim to stay open to growth. Being receptive, seeking continuous improvement, and learning from others are essential for becoming a successful leader at any age.

How you can get involved like Tess

What advice do you have for alumni who are looking to get involved in advocacy or leadership networks in their own cities?

Start small! Co-host an event with one of the regional networks, sign up to be an admissions interviewer or even just join the Meliora Collective and offer to connect with other alumni that way. It can feel overwhelming to join a “committee” or plan an event, so start with what you are comfortable with and enjoy. Reach out to old professors or ask an alumni staff member about how you might be able to help a student group you loved being a part of.

Every role I’ve played has been made so much more fun and significantly less stressful by the incredible alumni staff members who support alumni volunteers in everything we do. When I’ve had questions, concerns, or needed to step back, they are ready and willing to help. If you have an interest in getting more involved, my biggest advice is to take the plunge. It’s worth it!

Check out volunteer opportunities with the University today!