When Maddie Wolf learned about the Todd Otis Public Policy Internship, she knew it would be a great fit. With a background in early childhood and a growing interest in policymaking, it felt like a dream come true.
Maddie has spent the last 10 years in the early childhood field: teaching swimming lessons, nannying, and working as an early educator at multiple centers. She earned her degree in early childhood from the University of Minnesota Twin Cities before returning to pursue a Master in Public Health focused on Maternal and Child Health. This internship brought her experiences together, blending early childhood, policy, and collaboration.
A path to policy
An email promoting a class at the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs, Early Childhood Public Policy, taught by State Representative Dave Pinto, caught her attention. That course ultimately connected her to Think Small when the organization’s policy team visited to share their work and promote the internship.
Turning Family Voices into Policy Insights
Throughout the internship, Maddie gained valuable insight into the policy space and deepened her commitment to improving the early care and education in Minnesota.
“I am most proud of a two-pager I co-created with Dr. Smerillo and the marketing team titled What do Minnesota Families Want from Early Care and Education?” she shared.
The resource was developed using transcripts from three focus groups conducted by Think Small with families across the state as part of the WeVision Minnesota engagement process, which explored how to improve the early care and education system. The two-pager aims to elevate family perspectives to policymakers and advocates.
Collaboration behind the scenes
Maddie emphasizes that policymaking is far more collaborative than it may appear.
“When we think about legislation, oftentimes we think only about legislators sitting in a room and getting things done,” she said. “While this is true, it’s not the whole picture.”
“Organizations like Think Small, and many others, are working behind the scenes to get bills introduced. Even if it’s not part of your job directly, you can still influence policy. There are public comment periods, petitions you can sign, and rallies to attend. Find something you care about and make your voice heard.”
“The legislature is accountable to their constituents, so it is important they understand what you think and feel about certain policies.”
Looking ahead
Maddie graduated with her Master of Public Health in early May and is beginning her job search. She hopes to continue working in the policy and advocacy. Regardless of where her career takes her, she plans to remain a strong advocate for early childhood.
Children have always been a central part of her life and a passion she will continue to champion.
Learn more about Think Small’s policy work in early care and education or discover the impact of past Todd Otis Public Policy Interns.
