Riley brings a thoughtful, community-driven perspective to Neighborhood Strategies, grounded in academic study and hands-on experience in civic engagement and research. She earned a B.A. in International Relations and a minor in Spanish from Virginia Tech, where she developed a strong foundation in policy analysis, governance, and translating community priorities into action. Riley is particularly interested in civic advocacy, inclusive engagement, and expanding access to local decision-making. Through her previous work with nonpartisan organizations, she has helped strengthen civic participation and build coalitions among diverse stakeholders. Passionate about the places where people live and work, Riley brings a collaborative mindset and a commitment to continuous learning to her work in community-centered planning.