Last week, I was on Capitol Hill for the swearing-in of the 119th Congress. Accompanied by my colleague Katie Hazlett, we stopped by several open house receptions hosted by new members of Congress. The day was filled with optimism, energy, and fresh beginnings. Walking through the familiar halls, I couldn’t help but reflect on my journey, which began 20 years ago during another swearing-in day.
In January 2005, I was 29 years old, starting my role as chief of staff to freshman U.S. Representative Charlie Dent. Charlie represented Pennsylvania’s 15th Congressional District, which includes my hometown of Bethlehem, and stepping into that role was one of the proudest moments of my career.
The journey to that day began several months earlier when I volunteered on Charlie’s campaign in Pennsylvania and Washington, D.C. Charlie, a lifelong resident of Allentown, was already a respected leader in the Lehigh Valley. His thoughtful and pragmatic approach to leadership inspired me, as did his commitment to serving our community with integrity. While Charlie and I had discussed the possibility of me serving as his chief of staff, I was still surprised—and incredibly honored—when he formally asked me to take on the role after his election.
The weeks leading up to January 3, 2005, were a whirlwind. Preparing for Charlie’s first term meant recruiting staff, setting up constituent services, and planning legislative priorities. When swearing-in day arrived, it marked a turning point in my life. It was the day campaigning transitioned into governing, and the responsibility of serving the people of the 15th District became real.
For the next nine years, I had the privilege of working alongside Charlie. Those years were filled with invaluable lessons about leadership, service, and the complexities of public policy. Charlie led by example, showing me what it meant to serve with humility, integrity, and a steadfast focus on doing what was right for his constituents.
None of this work would have been possible without the extraordinary team we had, both on Capitol Hill and in our district offices. They were the backbone of our operation, working tirelessly to serve the people of the 15th District. From resolving constituent issues to drafting legislation, their dedication, and professionalism made our office successful. I owe them a tremendous amount of respect and gratitude.
Walking the Capitol halls last week, meeting new members of Congress, and seeing their teams in action, I was reminded of what it feels like to step into those roles for the first time. To those starting their journeys, embrace the privilege of serving, lean on the people who believe in you, and never forget the communities you represent.
Swearing-in day is a celebration of new beginnings. This year also marks a new chapter as I launch The Reserve Component. After decades of public service and lobbying, I’m excited to apply my lessons to this venture. The Reserve Component is focused on delivering strategic, results-driven government relations services. Much like my transition 20 years ago, this new beginning feels humbling and exhilarating.
To Charlie Dent, I want to express my deepest gratitude. Thank you for trusting me, allowing me to serve, and showing me what authentic leadership looks like. The nine years I spent as your chief of staff remain among the most meaningful of my life, and I’ll always be proud of the work we did together for Allentown, Bethlehem, and the 15th District.
To the members of the 119th Congress and their teams: may you lead with courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to those you represent. And to the staffers supporting them: you are the backbone of this work, and your contributions will make all the difference.
For me, swearing-in day is a time to celebrate the promise of the future and honor the journey that brought us here. Twenty years ago, I was just beginning mine, and today, I’m grateful to continue building on it.