Jewelyn Cosgrove joined Melwood in 2021 as the Vice President of Government and Public Relations, bringing with her 15 years of experience in public policy, lobbying, and advocacy.

Throughout her long career in the field, Jewelyn has been passionate about reimagining how organizations train, empower, and recognize self-advocates. She leverages her vast experience in communications and government affairs to advance the stories of the unheard.

Cosgrove leads the effort to develop and maintain relationships with lawmakers at the federal, state, and local levels to advance and support policy priorities on behalf of Melwood and the communities we serve, including people with disabilities, injured veterans, and their support systems. Before arriving at Melwood, Cosgrove has worked on campaigns, in state government, for trade associations, and in media affairs.

Cosgrove holds a Masters in Public Policy from George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government in Arlington, Virginia after receiving her Bachelors degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. She is also an alumnus of the Arlington Leadership Center for Excellence and the Public Affairs Council’s Grassroots and PAC Certificate Program.

Outside of work, Cosgrove is passionate about elevating the needs of mothers and families. She serves as Treasurer of Raising Our Future Political Action Committee and as a coach for women returning to work after maternity leave. Her work has been focused on promoting and empowering parents to negotiate and advocate on their behalf. She lives in Ashburn, VA with her husband, Greg, two children, Adeline and Elijah, and two cats, Loki and Nero.