Each month, we highlight members of GW Engineering's administrative team, whose tireless work keeps our school moving forward.
GW Engineering’s Office of Inclusive Excellence aspires to cultivate a community at our school in which all members have a strong sense of belonging and an equitable opportunity to thrive. As Program Associate, Dana Pratt is integral to this mission. Get to know September’s Local Hero, Dana Pratt, in the Q&A below!
Q: How long have you been working at GW, and what is your position?
A: I have been working at GW since June of 2026, so I’m fairly new to the community! I’m the Program Associate in the Office of Inclusive Excellence at the School of Engineering and Applied Science.
Q: What led you to this career?
A: My first job as an undergraduate was a Peer Educator at the Center for Women & Gender Equity at my alma mater, West Chester University. That job has led me to multiple professional staff roles at universities doing inclusive excellence and student affairs work.
Q: Why did you choose GW?
A: I chose GW because I was impressed by the inclusive excellence work being done and wanted to be a part of it.
Q: What is one thing you wish you’d known when you started working at GW?
A: I wish I’d known that the Multicultural Student Services Center is one of the best places for resources and offers a great community space for faculty, staff, and students!
Q: What is your favorite part about working at GW Engineering?
A: My favorite part about working at GW Engineering is connecting with students, faculty, and staff through my role at SEAS Together.
Q: Why would someone want to work at GW Engineering?
A: Someone would want to work at GW Engineering if they valued innovation, experimentation, and enjoyed finding creative solutions to everyday problems.
Q: What is your biggest work pet peeve?
A: My biggest work pet peeve is when the office is freezing.
Q: What’s your ideal way to spend the weekend?
A: My ideal way to spend the weekend is outside exploring running trails in D.C. and visiting the DuPont Farmer’s Market!
Q: What’s one of your favorite memories from the past year?
A: Traveling to Alaska and seeing orcas!
Q: Tell us something people don’t know about you.
A: I grew up on a farm!
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: My partner and I have two cats, Pluto and Cricket.