Caitlyn Eccles is based in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is passionate about improving outcomes for young people navigating the child welfare system. She dedicates her time to advancing research, advocacy, and youth engagement initiatives that elevate and amplify the voices of lived experience experts through partnerships to inform more effective policies. Believing that individuals closest to systemic challenges should help shape the solutions, Caitlyn channels her passion into action through NFYI by supporting efforts that strengthen youth voices and inform policy reform in the child welfare space. She is particularly interested in creating opportunities for young people to share their stories and contribute directly to the policies that impact their lives.

Caitlyn draws inspiration from her background working in sports media and marketing, where she saw firsthand the leadership and culture that drives successful teams. She often reflects on a principle shared by mentor and legendary coach Nick Saban: “Onething about championship teams is that they’re resilient. No matter what is thrown at them, no matter how deep the hole, they find a way to bounce back and overcome adversity.” That idea deeply resonated with Caitlyn’s experience and work in child welfare, where she witnesses the remarkable resilience of young people navigating foster care and transition-aged youth overcoming systemic barriers.

Outside of her policy work, Caitlyn enjoys studying ballet, working on her entrepreneurial venture, OPS Media, travelling the world, and spending time with her pets.

Through the Congressional Leadership Academy, Caitlyn hopes to deepen her
understanding of the legislative process, strengthen her policy advocacy skills, and
collaborate with leaders across the country to help build stronger systems for young
people and families.