Who We Are

Founding Partner

Eli Kaplan

Rolling Stone Magazine has recognized Eli as a millennial who is “making a mark” on how the left wins elections. That’s because for the past 12 years, Eli has been at the forefront of digital marketing innovations in Democratic politics. As a founding partner of both Rising Tide Interactive and DSPolitical, he’s pioneered some of the best practices for using “big data” in the world of online political advertising — both for email acquisition and fundraising, and for voter persuasion and mobilization. He’s helped Democrats win some of the most hard-fought political races in the country — including U.S. Senate and gubernatorial contests in Colorado, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, and more. Prior to founding Rising Tide Interactive, Eli managed digital media operations for a series of extremely competitive statewide political campaigns. He’s been honored with awards by the Association of American Political Consultants and Campaigns & Elections magazine.  He’s spoken at conferences such as AdMonsters OPS, Netroots Nation, and CampaignTech, and guest-lectured at his alma mater, the University of Pennsylvania.

Partner

Stephanie Grasmick

Stephanie is one of the premiere digital strategists in progressive politics. She currently manages digital media for a portfolio of political and public affairs clients, including FWD.us, the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. In 2018, she served as the chief digital strategist on statewide campaigns and independent expenditure programs in Michigan, Colorado, Minnesota, Texas, Ohio and Indiana. Prior to joining Rising Tide in 2011, Stephanie served as a deputy press secretary in the U.S. Senate, digital content producer at DMG World Media, and deputy new media director at the DCCC.

Stephanie frequently collaborates on cutting-edge studies of digital media in elections, and her writing has been published in Roll Call. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism in Strategic Communication from the University of Missouri, and is a proud Tortilla Coast alum.

Partner

Annie Levene

Under Annie’s leadership, Rising Tide Interactive has guided clients to develop cutting-edge digital programs that raise millions of dollars through recruiting and engaging with grassroots donors and that reach, persuade, and turn out critical voters. Annie has carved a niche by building winning strategies for tough races, including serving as the lead digital strategist for 2018’s only Senate seat flips, Jacky Rosen and Kyrsten Sinema. Annie also ran digital strategy for the successful 2018 reelection campaigns of Governor Kate Brown, Senator Amy Klobuchar and Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy. Annie has personally directed programs for the Democratic Governors Association, Senator Chris Coons, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, and Senator Tim Kaine and is proud to have executed all fundraising and persuasion advertising campaigns for Senator Heidi Heitkamp’s come from behind victory in 2012. Annie holds a BA in English from the University of Michigan.

Strategy Associate

Adele Ackert

Adele is a Strategy Associate at RTI, responsible for evaluating the performance of client’s email and advertising programs. Prior to working at RTI, she worked at Revolution Messaging as a Digital Advertising Associate. Born and raised on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Adele moved to D.C. to study political communication at American University. Outside of work Adele enjoys camping, cooking, and listening to too much NPR.

Ad Ops Associate

Harry Applestein

As an Advertising Operations Associate, Harry is responsible for trafficking new Ad campaigns on multiple ad platforms. After studying Political Science at Franklin and Marshall College, he joined the DCCC Independent Expenditure as the operations assistant for the 2018 cycle. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, trying out new restaurants, and listening to music.

Content Strategist

Tara Bardella

As a Content Strategist, Tara helps to create compelling digital copy. Tara earned her Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Arizona and her MPA from Capella University. Previously, Tara worked with campaigns and projects including the 2012 Obama campaign, House Majority PAC and Democratic GAIN. In her spare time, Tara enjoys travel, 80s and 90s music and nostalgia, movies, photography, and all things cat-related, including managing her cat Toffee’s Instagram account.

Account Manager

Jolina Blier

As an Account Manager, Jolina works with clients to devise successful digital media strategies for their advertising and email programs. Prior to joining RTI, her career was focused on fundraising for nonprofit organizations, having most recently worked in multi-channel direct marketing for Save the Children. Originally from Massachusetts, Jolina holds a B.A. in International Business from Western New England University and an M.A. in International Affairs from The New School. When not brainstorming new digital marketing ideas, you can find her exploring the city, thinking up new DIY projects, and counting down the days until the next Patriots game.

Junior Graphic Designer

Bailey Bradford

Bailey is a Junior Designer at Rising Tide Interactive, excited to be working at the intersection of design and politics. He is a native of Denver and a graduate of Georgetown University with a B.A. in Government and Sociology. While not designing, he’s busy daydreaming about hiking in the Rockies or trying to curate the perfect playlist.

Strategy Associate

Marlon Calliste

A Strategy Associate at Rising Tide, Marlon assess client’s email and advertising programs. Prior to joining RTI, Marlon worked on Democratic campaigns in Virginia and New York. He holds a Bachelor degree in English and Criminal Justice from the State University of New York. In his spare time, Marlon likes to play and watch soccer, watch movies, and go to a good concert.

Lead Strategist

Rachel Clark

Rachel comes to the Lead Strategist role with experience developing digital fundraising, persuasion, and advocacy strategies to win hearts, minds, and elections across the country. Previously, she was a strategist at Veracity Media, grew the national digital advocacy program at the Afterschool Alliance, and dabbled in direct mail at Convergence Targeted Communications. Rachel graduated summa cum laude from Stony Brook University. As a proud Central New York native, her hobbies include bumming rides to Wegmans.

Strategy Associate

Hannah Crook

As a Strategy Associate, Hannah evaluates the performance of client’s email and advertising campaigns. She recently earned her B.A in Public Policy from the University of Maryland, and interned for Veracity Media, the U.S House of Representatives, and the Maryland Democratic Party before joining RTI. Outside of work, Hannah can be found listening to 70’s music, running, and visiting Eastern Market.

Administrative Assistant

Nina Darby

Nina is an Administrative Assistant at RTI. Nina is responsible for the onboarding process of New Hires and daily operations regarding employees. Nina has a BA of Mass Communications from Rust College and a MS of Communication Specialist from Alabama A&M University. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, and in her spare time she likes to write and hang out with her friends and family.

Motion Designer

Tim Darragh

Accounting Clerk

Jackeline Denman

Hello, my name is Jackie and I am an Accounting Clerk here at RTI. I am responsible for financial recordkeeping, preparing and sending invoices, maintaining the accounting logs up to date, and recording electronic payments. Prior to working at RTI, I worked at quikrete as an AP clerk where I then decided to continue my education and get a degree in Accounting. I anticipate graduating with an Associates Degree this year. In my spare time, I enjoy watching makeup tutorials and practicing on myself and trying new places to eat.

Lead Strategist

Steph Densberger

Steph is a Lead Strategist whose career has been in digital and email marketing. She insists on vivid copywriting, enjoys bending CRMs to her will, and loves seeing her clients’ names in print. Originally from Indiana, she’s a D.C. lifer by now. She reads everything, walks everywhere, and judges people who use umbrellas in the snow.

Digital Production Associate

Kaitlyn Dietlin

As a Digital Production Associate, Kaitlyn turns digital strategic content into the emails in your inbox. She holds a B.A. in Communications from UCLA and was previously part of the digital team at End Citizens United. In her free time, she can be found reading, baking, exploring DC, and listening to copious amounts of nerdy podcasts.

Associate Director of Media

Cassie Doyle

As Associate Director of Media, Cassie translates client goals into sophisticated media plans, oversees media buying, and monitors industry trends and best practices. Cassie joins Rising Tide from Story Partners, a strategic communications firm where she managed paid and earned media campaigns and web design projects. She began her career in DC on the staff of former Maine Congressman Mike Michaud. Cassie is a graduate of Vanderbilt and an avid fan of Boston sports teams, chicken pad Thai, and petting other people’s dogs.

Senior Production Associate

Samreena Farooqui

Sam ensures email campaigns at RTI go off without a hitch. She got her start in the progressive sphere through grassroots issues organizing for reproductive justice, mental health advocacy, evidence-based policy, and the separation of church and state. Before coming to RTI, she worked in digital, writing emails and/or managing social media for several organizations in the nonprofit sector. In her free time, Sam likes to patronize local establishments, go to shows, do various art things, and talk too much (or just enough?) about psychosociological/sociopolitical phenomena.

Vice President, Creative

Amanda Gravely

Amanda leads our Content, Design, Video, and Production teams, managing projects from concept to execution. With a background in graphic design and creative direction, she specializes in high impact digital-first creative that drives people to action. Amanda has led creative for 15+ Senatorial candidates, 10+ Congressional candidates, 8 Democratic party committees, 15+ non-profit organizations, and 40+ GOTV efforts since 2014. Most of her time outside of work is spent managing her cat Pepper’s social media presence.

Account Manager

Jordan Harris

As an Account Manager, Jordan manages digital media strategy for online advertising and email programs. Prior to joining RTI, he served as a Call Time Manager for a Democratic Congressional campaign in Virginia’s 5th District and interned for the Democratic Leader of the Virginia House of Delegates. Jordan graduated from the University of Virginia with a degree in Government. Out of the office, he enjoys playing sports, cooking new meals, and watching UVA basketball games (Go Hoos!).

Senior Graphic Designer

Krista Hunsicker

Krista is a Senior Graphic Designer on our Creative Team who believes in using clever solutions and great design to influence people for the betterment of society. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from the University of Central Florida. Krista is a cinephile (lover of films) and enjoys watching the Oscars every year and being inspired by the title sequences. She is a proud geek and thinks that trivia knowledge is a superpower.

Strategy Associate

Keyla Jones-Rosa

Graphic Designer

Jacqueline Juengst

Jacqueline is a designer on the creative team who strives to engage audiences with compelling graphics across platforms. She graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design. When not visiting museums around town, she enjoys curling up with a hot cup of tea.

Junior Accountant

Maggie Kasa

Associate Director of Content Strategy

Stephanie King

Stephanie leads RTI’s Content Team as they create compelling ideas for persuasive digital campaigns. In her own writing, Stephanie specializes in creating video scripts that drive donations, persuade voters, and raise public awareness.
Before joining RTI, Stephanie crafted focused campaign communications for print and direct mail. She has a BA in Political Science and Biology from Johns Hopkins University, and when not writing, Stephanie can be found drinking coffee and perfecting her garlic bread recipe.

Associate Director of Client Strategy

Neeraja Koneru

Neeraja has led strategy and execution of digital campaigns for clients in both the non-profit and for-profit worlds for years successfully executing on a range of strategies including: sales growth, email list growth, and fundraising. As a marketing thought leader, she’s also led educational webinars with SEMPO, and published blog posts with a number of organizations including Marketing Land. Neeraja is from Austin where she received her B.A. from the University of Texas at Austin. She enjoys reading, Scrabble, standup, & spicy food.

Vice President, Client Strategy

Brian Krebs

As VP for Client Strategy, Brian helps clients achieve their goals by tapping into his digital expertise in fundraising, communications, and integrating staff into campaigns. In 2018, he conceptualized and planned a first-of-its-kind digital advertising team within the historic midterm DCCC Independent Expenditure. During his two-cycle stint at the DCCC, Brian also built the committee’s inaugural team of regional digital directors. Prior to coming to Washington, Brian served as Mark Udall’s digital director and Claire McCaskill’s deputy digital director. Before his career in politics, Brian was an editor and reporter at The Huffington Post’s Patch.com in Northern Virginia. He holds a Bachelors of Journalism from the University of Missouri.

Content Strategist

Colton Long

As a Content Strategist, Colton writes digital copy, deletes it, rewrites it, and then stares at it for ten minutes before hitting Send. In a former life he was a writer at a direct mail firm, worked on a primary campaign in Maryland, and interned for Sen. Jon Tester. Originally from the Philly suburbs, Colton holds undergrad degrees in political science and philosophy and a M.A. from American University. Outside RTI, you can find him in the gym or slaving over the first novel he’s written that’s not absolutely awful.

Senior Writer and Content Strategist

Helen Luryi

As RTI’s Senior Writer and Content Strategist, Helen conceptualizes campaigns and produces email content for progressive candidates and organizations. She got her start in email marketing as a Senior Writer for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. Previous to that, she worked for a series of policy and advocacy organizations focused on women’s and workers’ rights. When she’s not brainstorming email ideas at odd hours, Helen is often engaging in some sort of activism or hanging out at the local dog park.

Video Editor

Germain McCarthy

Germain is a video editor on RTI’s Creative team. Having worked in both traditional and political advertising, he strives to create ads that are both data-driven and outside of the box. He graduated from Spring Hill College with a Public Relations & Advertising degree with an emphasis in Media Production. When not riding Lime scooters around DC, he loves playing with his golden retriever, trying new foods, and going to local sporting events.

Digital Production Associate

Alexandra McCabe

As a Digital Production Associate, Ali’s role at RTI is to take the final step from digital strategy to what you see in your inbox. She cut her political teeth as an intern at RTI after working in communications for the nonprofit sector and graduating from York College of Pennsylvania with a degree in writing. When not engrossed in Twitter, you can find her rambling Joshua Tree with her dogs or reading in her hammock.

Vice President, Media

Kelsey McLaughlin

Kelsey manages RTI’s media team and is based in San Francisco. She got her start in politics on President Obama’s 2008 campaign, and later served as digital director for No Labels, a non-profit political organization. Kelsey graduated with high honors and a Bachelor of Political Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Senior Advisor

Kevin McTigue

Kevin McTigue is a Senior Advisor at Rising Tide Interactive where he helps clients navigate the strategic and digital landscapes. He is a veteran of numerous campaigns and served as the Deputy Director for Independent Expenditures at the Democratic Governors Association. While at the DGA, he helped elect new governors in Hawaii, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island, and re-elect governors in Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, and New Hampshire. A native of Ann Arbor, Kevin believes in Jim Harbaugh.

Account Manager

Matt Medeiros

As an Account Manager, Matt is the main point of contact for clients, and he manages the digital media strategy for online advertising and email fundraising. He previously worked at RTI as an Advertising Operations Specialist and as a Digital Intern. Originally from Massachusetts, he moved to DC to study Political Science and History at the George Washington University. In his free time, Matt likes to play music, listen to podcasts, and bike to coffee shops around D.C.

Account Manager

Lidya Mesgna

As an Account Manager, Lidya works with clients to implement successful digital media strategies for their advertising and email programs. Prior to joining the team, she served as the Social Media Director on the 2019 Mississippi Democratic gubernatorial campaign and as a Digital Campaigns Associate at Blueprint Interactive during the 2018 cycle. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends, watching movies in theaters, and drinking tea. Lidya holds a B.A. in International Studies from Boston College.

Content Strategist

Luisa Morenilla

As a Content Strategist, Luisa writes compelling copy for clients that drives engagement and donations. She found her passion for working in politics in 2018, when she led communications for a Democratic candidate for the Alabama senate. Her career has otherwise spanned from photojournalism to financial industry marketing. She earned her masters degree in journalism from the University of California, Berkeley. In her free time she enjoys board games, salsa dancing and exploring DC.

Lead Strategist

Emily Perlstein

Emily is a Lead Strategist at RTI, where she spearheads innovative email and digital ad programs for her clients. Prior to her time at RTI, she worked with the digital teams at the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee and Ready for Hillary PAC. Emily holds Bachelors degrees in Political Communications and History from the George Washington University. A Midwesterner at heart, Emily has spent the last few years in DC fueled by nitro cold brew, aperol spritzes, and Fleetwood Mac.

Account Manager

Matt Royer

Matt manages day to day digital strategy for his clients to help win campaigns and advocate for progressive organizations. Before coming to RTI, he was a campaign manager for Democratic state level candidates in his home state of Virginia for the 2019 cycle. Matt has worked at DSPolitical and Revolution Messaging formulating winning digital advertising programs for progressive candidates, after organizing in the midwest to lobby for clean energy and lifting cannabis restrictions. Outside of work, Matt sits on the executive board of the Arlington Young Democrats and enjoys spending time with his family and his lab Ray, going to concerts with friends, and being a tortured DC sports fan.

Advertising Operations Manager

Fabio Rubiera

As Advertising Operations Manager, Fabio’s work involves trafficking new ads on all advertising platforms as well as regular maintenance and quality assurance of ongoing ad campaigns. He studied Political Science at Florida International University in Miami, FL and has previously worked in digital advertising for the automotive and hospitality industries. In his free time he likes to listen to and play music, play video games, and go on hiking trips.

Director of HR and Operations

Antonette Russell

As Director of HR and Operations, Antonette manages internal office operations and benefits. With 10+ years of experience developing procedures and fostering a fun work environment, Antonette creates workplace cultures that are inclusive, engaging, and collaborative. Before RTI, she was Director of HR/Administration at Meals on Wheels America. Antonette has a BS degree from Hampton University, an MBA, and an MPA. A native Washingtonian, Antonette likes to travel Europe and build with LEGO.

Account Manager

Mihika Sapru

Mihika is an Account Manager at RTI. Prior to joining the team, she ran digital campaigns on issues related to gender-based violence and immigrant justice at Breakthrough, a global human rights organization. Mihika holds degrees from Georgetown University and New York University. In her spare time, you can find Mihika updating her extensive spreadsheet of DC restaurants, keeping up with global politics, or brewing Kombucha at home.

Strategy Associate

Lydia Schwartz

As a Strategy Associate, Lydia is responsible for evaluating the performance of clients’ email and advertising programs. Originally from DC, she’s been touting the Democratic party and debating abortion rights since she was in the 3rd grade. If she’s not in the office then she’s probably spending time with friends.

Advertising Operations Associate

Maheen Shahid

Maheen joins Rising Tide as an Advertising Operations Associate, trafficking digital advertising campaigns on a variety of advertising platforms. Born, raised, and informed just outside of the District, the ongoing bustle of the political arena is nothing new to them. With a degree in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University and a track record of organizing for progressive causes dating back to the eighth grade, their measured commitment to social progression is lifelong. In between their duties at RTI and fawning over their cat, Maheen finds time to enjoy Pan-Asian cuisine, niche video essays, and Beyoncé.

Account Manager

Brianna Shamsuddoha

As an Account Manager, Brianna is responsible for day-to-day client management and strategy. Before RTI, Brianna worked for Senator Gary Peters after graduating from Michigan State University (go green!). Outside of work, Brianna enjoys cooking for friends and family as well as hanging out with her corgi-mix, Brynn. As a prouder Michigander, she has a plethora of fun #MichiganFacts.

Strategy Associate

Chloe Stavrianos

As a Strategy Associate, Chloe is responsible for evaluating the performance of clients’ email and advertising programs. Originally from Maryland, she studied Political Science at American University and interned at RTI before starting work here full time. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and canvassing for Democratic candidates.

Vice President, Client Strategy

Jake Sticka

As Vice President, Client Strategy at RTI, Jake works with our client strategy team to find digital solutions that meet our clients’ needs. This is his fourth election cycle as a part of RTI’s team, where he previously led digital advertising efforts on a number of statewide campaigns and national nonprofits. Jake is a native of San Diego, a graduate of Georgetown University, a suffering fan of Padres baseball and Hoyas basketball, and a minigolf enthusiast.

Content Strategist

Blake Stump

As a Content Strategist, Blake drafts the content driving our clients’ online fundraising programs. Prior to coming to RTI, Blake interned with the Senate Budget Committee and worked on Congressional campaigns in Texas and Virginia. He has a degree in Communication Studies from Baylor University in Waco, Texas, where he grew up. In his free time, you can usually find him watching Netflix, catching up on the news, or playing video games.

Director of Accounting

Monica Summers

Monica is the Director of Accounting at RTI.  She handles the day-to-day financial operations, maintains financial records, and performs general bookkeeping functions.  Monica has 8+ years of accounting experience. Prior to coming to RTI she performed accounting functions for a large government contracting research corporation with a concentration in the advancement of space and science technology.  Monica is an avid roller skater and a die-hard Redskins fan. She also enjoys cooking, jewelry making and interior decorating.

Digital Production Associate

Olivia Thomas

Olivia is a Digital Production Associate at RTI, where she transforms digital content into inbox-ready emails. Olivia has a background in progressive non-profits and has worked on multiple issue-advocacy campaigns. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from Colgate University and hails originally from San Diego. In her free time, Olivia volunteers as a Case Manager with the DC Abortion Fund. She also enjoys hanging out with friends, cooking, and exploring new places and events in DC. 

Strategy Associate

Julia Trainor

As a Strategy Associate, Julia evaluates email and advertising performance for clients’ campaigns. She holds a B.A. in public relations and political science from Syracuse University. Prior to joining RTI, she worked on a mayoral race in Syracuse and researched gender and politics for her undergraduate thesis. In her free time, she enjoys playing guitar, running, and hanging out with other people’s dogs (while wishing she had her own).

Executive Assistant

India Waller

India joins RTI as the Executive Assistant. She supports the Partners and works directly with leadership on day-to-day operations and special projects. India has six years of administrative, executive, and office management experience in both the private & public sectors. Prior to RTI, India served as the Executive Assistant at Chalkbeat.  A Maryland native, India received her B.A. from Salisbury University and MPA from The University of Baltimore. Outside of work, India loves bartending and shopping.

Account Manager

Reed Waxham

Reed is an Account Manager at RTI, responsible for spearheading winning digital strategies for progressive candidates and causes. During the 2018 cycle, he was a digital media associate at HG Creative, where he was responsible for campaign strategy and digital engagement programs. Reed received his M.A. in Media & Strategic Political Communication and B.A. in Political Communication from the George Washington University. A dog lover, he volunteers as an adoptions coordinator with City Dogs Rescue.

Operations/Office Manager

Shaynna White

Shaynna White is the Operations/Office Manager for Rising Tide Interactive.

Shaynna previously served as a Project Manager for MO Black Votes, an organization that focused on registering 20,000 African American voters in Missouri, where she motivated and managed the needs of three offices throughout the state.

Shaynna was also the Professional Development Coordinator for National Head Start in Alexandria, VA. She supported conferences, website management, and helped with a continuing education program through PBS.

Shaynna is a native Washingtonian and attended Delaware State University where she majored in Sociology. In her spare time, she enjoys puzzles, reading books, and singing in a local “house” band.

Lead Strategist

Sam Wines

Sam comes to the Lead Strategist role with a background in digital fundraising. Prior to working at Rising Tide, she managed email fundraising programs for nonprofits at M+R. That is where she also discovered her love for pivot tables. In her free time, Sam likes to play viola in her community orchestra, rock climb, and stay active in Arlington politics.