Advocacy 101

Strengthen your voice and build confidence as an advocate! In this session, you’ll learn how to effectively share your personal or organizational story, communicate your priorities, and build meaningful relationships with lawmakers. We’ll walk through the best ways to contact your legislators, what to expect during meetings, and how to prepare concise, compelling messages that resonate.

You’ll also receive practical guidance for Advocacy Day, how to navigate the Capitol, make the most of your time with policymakers, and engage in respectful, impactful conversations. Whether you’re new to advocacy or looking to sharpen your skills, this session will equip you with the tools to make a real difference.

Melissa McKinley is the President of Kelley Cawthorne in Lansing. She has been with the firm since 2005. Melissa has been named a top lobbyist in Michigan by MIRS News and Inside Michigan Politics, as well as one of the 50 Names to Know in Lobbying by Crain’s Detroit Business.

Prior to joining Kelley Cawthorne, Melissa served as Vice President of Government Affairs at Western Michigan University. She also worked as a Legislative Aide for Senate Democratic Leader Bob Emerson and Democratic Speaker of the House Curtis Hertel, Sr.

Melissa has served on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity of Michigan and co-chaired committees for the Children’s Trust Fund and Special Olympics Michigan.

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations and Political Theory from the James Madison College at Michigan State University.