External Affairs · Government Relations · Public Speaker

Always
Forward

Connecting people, policy, and possibility. Over 15 years of moving ideas into impact.

About Andrew Speaking Inquiry
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Andrew Simmerman

The Person

California Connector.
Political Junkie.

I'm a San Diego native, NYC/LA seasoned, and always chasing big ideas. I've been a teacher, startup builder, nonprofit leader, and policy advocate — connecting people, ideas, and industries to make an impact.

I operate at the intersection of politics, future workforce, and innovation — especially where emerging technology meets the real world. Big on strategy, bigger on relationships, and always looking for the next challenge that matters.

My approach is grounded in the belief that real change happens in rooms where trust has been built — and I've spent a career building those rooms, one relationship at a time.

15+
Years in External Affairs
100+
Government Officials Engaged
$50M+
Public & Private Investment Influenced

Where Policy Meets Action

Government Affairs

For over 15 years I've worked at the intersection of government, education, and community — translating policy into real outcomes for the people who need it most. From Sacramento's Capitol corridors to local neighborhood groundbreakings, I build coalitions that move.

As Director of Government Affairs at KIPP SoCal Public Schools, I lead advocacy strategies that have secured key educational legislation, engaged countless community and elected leaders, and driven millions in new funding for students and families across Southern California.

My government relationships span city halls, state agencies, and federal offices — built over years of showing up, following through, and delivering. Whether navigating a budget fight in Sacramento, building a coalition around a school policy, or working a candidate's campaign, I bring both the strategy and the relationships to win.

I believe in the power of direct relationships with elected officials and their staff — not just as a means to an end, but as the foundation of lasting policy change. Every door I've opened has been built on trust, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the communities we serve.

Legislative Advocacy

Spearheaded advocacy plans resulting in successful outcomes on key education policies at local, state, and federal levels — from California Assembly to Washington, D.C.

Coalition Building

Relationships with countless community and elected leaders — city councils, the CA State Legislature, federal offices, and community organizations across Southern California.

Public Affairs Leadership

Active participant in advisory working groups and California coalitions influencing education, workforce, and equity policy at local, state, and federal levels.

Donor Relations

Built high-performing donor strategies that have generated millions in private philanthropy, doubled active donor engagement, achieved sustained year-over-year growth, and now support a major nonprofit's transformation of its development operation.

Campaign & Political Engagement

Active supporter of candidates aligned with education equity and community opportunity — canvassing, event organizing, and building bridges between campaigns and communities.

DC Advocacy — Sen. Cory Booker
DC Advocacy
CA State Capitol
CA State Capitol
Sen. Raphael Warnock
Sen. Warnock
Sen. Adam Schiff
Sen. Schiff
School Tour with Elected Officials
School Tour with Elected
City Hall Relationships
City Hall Relationships
Campaign Canvassing
Campaign Canvassing
Andrew Simmerman speaking Andrew Simmerman speaking at Caesars Palace Andrew Simmerman at podium

From the Stage

Public Speaking

Engaging, energetic, and grounded in real experience — I bring 15 years of front-line advocacy and leadership to every stage I step on.

  • Government Affairs & Education PolicyNavigating the legislative landscape for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations
  • Building Authentic RelationshipsCommunity engagement, coalition strategy, and cross-sector partnership
  • Future of Workforce & InnovationWhere emerging tech meets community and education
  • Leadership & CultureStrengths-based leadership, team identity, and organizational growth
  • Diversity, Equity & InclusionPractical frameworks for advancing equity in institutions

"He brings out the best in everyone to ensure we all walk out of a room smarter than when we entered it."

Danny Melgoza — Chief Strategy Officer, National Association of Counties
Book Andrew to Speak
Andrew Simmerman moderating — Forward Strategies
Consulting Practice

Strategy & Consulting

Forward Strategies

Forward Strategies is my external affairs and strategy consultancy — built on one simple idea: Always Forward. Clean, modern, confident. For organizations and leaders who need to navigate complex political, community, and stakeholder landscapes with clarity and purpose.

I provide a full range of services to clients who are ready to move from conversation to consequence — from grassroots coalitions to C-suite advocacy strategy.

External Affairs Coalition Building Policy Strategy Stakeholder Engagement Strategic Communications Government Relations Campaign Architecture
Visit Forward Strategies →

Word on the Street

What People Say

"

Andrew is an incredible thought partner for me and for a diverse range of leaders who care about delivering on the promise of public education. He has a unique ability to build productive relationships with education stakeholders who don't often agree, because he elevates conversations to the higher ground of what young people are capable of achieving. Educators value and want to be part of the tables Andrew creates.

Richard Barrera (Next) CA State Superintendent of Public Instruction
"

What distinguishes Andrew is his ability to connect the dots across issues, sectors, and people. He thinks strategically, asks thoughtful questions, and never loses sight of the larger purpose behind the work. His commitment to education and his talent for bringing the right people together make him an invaluable partner.

Maria Anguiano Chair · UC Board of Regents
"

Andrew played a key role in our 7 person startup. He created the foundation for the TOMS Campus Club Program and led the first ever One Day Without Shoes that has seen millions of participants over the years. I'm thankful for his contributions as part of the TOMS family.

Blake Mycoskie Founder & Chief Shoe Giver · TOMS Shoes
"

Andrew is the personification of my vision for true leadership. He wants to understand how to make connections between education, workforce development, inclusion, economic development and social/societal justice. He wants to be an active part of the solutions. I'm certain he will.

Tony Young CEO, San Diego Black Chamber of Commerce · Former City Council President, City of San Diego
"

He wants to understand how to make connections between education, workforce development, inclusion, economic development and social/societal justice. He wants to be an active part of the solutions. I'm certain he will.

Mark Cafferty CEO · San Diego Regional EDC
"

Andrew is one of the most intuitive young professionals who I have ever met. He is a connector, and has the uncanny ability to develop meaningful relationships with any and all stakeholders.

Rafael Castellanos Chairman & Commissioner · Port of San Diego
"

His talents and creativity always surface the key messages of the projects and lead to successful outcomes. Andrew's the kind of person who makes everyone around him better.

Ed Hidalgo Founder · Qualcomm Thinkabit Lab
"

He's incredibly personal, engaging, fun, witty, well organized and effective. Andrew gets things done and brings people with him wherever he goes.

Jack McGrory Trustee · California State University
"

Consistent, approachable, culturally aware and open to learning and appreciating other cultures. Andrew leads with genuine curiosity and warmth that draws people together.

Philip Liburd Former Executive Board Member · NAACP San Diego Branch
"

He is a connector, and has the uncanny ability to develop meaningful relationships with any and all stakeholders. His impact on communities is real and lasting.

Benjamin Alisuag Director of Instruction & Programs · BusinessBlocks
"

Andrew has been instrumental in leading our team through a year of transitions and helping us to claim our identity as an institution. A trusted advisor and genuine leader.

Dr. Heather Lattimer Provost · CSU Los Angeles
"

Give him a laptop and an hour and he'll come up with the concept framing and project execution that will wow. Andrew is the MacGyver of outreach and program development.

Carl Luna, PhD Director & Professor · Institute for Civil Civic Engagement
"

Andrew is one of our most dedicated and determined young professionals. His energy, creativity, and commitment to the community are unmatched.

Fmr. Councilmember Barbara Bry District 1 · City of San Diego
"

He brings out the best in everyone to ensure we all walk out of a room smarter than when we entered it. A rare and powerful ability.

Danny Melgoza Chief Strategy Officer · National Association of Counties
"

I appreciate Andrew's sincere commitment and passion to making a positive impact. He is someone who shows up fully — every time.

Cristina Alfaro, PhD Chair, Dual Language Dept. · San Diego State University
"

Over the years, I've known Andrew to be extremely authentic and optimistic. He has the rare gift of making everyone around him feel seen and valued.

Sean Karafin Small Business Engagement Manager · City of San Diego

Career

Experience & Background

Professional Experience
Jan 2020 — Present
Director of Government Affairs
Director of Community & Donor Relations · Member of Leadership Team
KIPP SoCal Public Schools · Los Angeles / San Diego, CA
Leading external affairs and advocacy strategy across Southern California. Engaging 100+ government officials and policymakers, securing key education legislation, and growing donor relationships to $2M+ in private funding.
Jan 2017 — Present
Owner & Principal Consultant
Forward Strategies · California
External affairs and strategy consultancy providing government relations, coalition building, policy strategy, and stakeholder engagement for nonprofit, private sector, and government clients.
Sept 2017 — Jan 2020
Vice President of Business Development
RISE San Diego · San Diego, CA
Established RISE@Work with 100% revenue growth in the first two years. Managed team of PhD-level facilitators, developed partner contracts with school districts and corporations. Co-presenting workshops for groups of six to three hundred attendees.
Prior Experience
Higher Education
Communications & Special Projects Manager
University of San Diego · San Diego, CA
Managed communications strategy and special initiatives for university leadership, supporting external affairs and community engagement programs.
PR & Communications
Director
ChamberlaynePR · San Diego, CA
Led public relations and external affairs strategy for nonprofit and corporate clients across Southern California.
External Affairs
Head of Partnerships
Teach For America · San Diego, CA
Built and managed strategic partnerships across the education, business, and civic sectors to advance TFA's regional mission and expand community support.
K–12 Education
Public School Teacher
New York City Public Schools · New York, NY
Classroom teacher committed to educational equity. The foundation of my belief that every child deserves access to an excellent education — and the fuel behind every advocacy effort since.
Education
Master of Science in Education
City University of New York, Lehman College · 2010
AmeriCorps Full-Tuition Award
Bachelor of Arts in Advertising
Pepperdine University · 2008
Resident Advisor 2006–2008
Leadership & Affiliations
  • CA Assembly District 79 Education Advisory Board Member (2025–present)
  • Relay GSE AI PLC Graduate (2024)
  • LEE National Board & Commission Appointments Program (2020)
  • 40 Under 40 – San Diego Metro Magazine (2018)
  • RISE San Diego – Urban Leadership Fellows Program (2016)
  • LEAD San Diego IMPACT Graduate – San Diego Chamber of Commerce (2015)
  • Guest Speaker & Facilitator – Regularly invited to lead discussions on public policy, education, and workforce development. Led workshops, town halls, and panels for audiences of up to 1,000 attendees.
Gallup Strengths
StrengthsFinder Top 5
Certified in Strengths-Based Leadership
01 Adaptability — thrives in ambiguity, responds well to the demands of the moment 02 Woo — wins others over, breaks the ice, builds strong networks 03 Positivity — builds enthusiasm, gets others excited about the task at hand 04 Includer — thinks with empathy, accepts and includes others 05 Connectedness — sees links where others don't, operates with purpose and belief

Let's Connect

Get in Touch

Whether you're looking to partner on a policy initiative, book me as a speaker, or explore what Forward Strategies can do for your organization — I'd love to hear from you.

✆
(310) 804-6822
✉
andrew@forwardstrategiesco.com
⊕
forwardstrategiesco.com
LOC
Los Angeles · San Diego · Sacramento

ALWAYS FORWARD