BGSU alum builds a career in national politics, from presidential campaigns to Detroit City Hall

Christopher Scott '11 has worked on campaigns for President Obama, Vice President Harris and recently Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield

By Branden Ferguson

Since graduating from Bowling Green State University, Christopher Scott '11 has built a career in national politics, working on and leading historic campaigns and helping shape political organizations across the country. Most recently, Scott served as coalition director for former Vice President Kamala Harris and as campaign managerfor Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield.

While his work has taken him from presidential campaigns to mayoral races, Scott said the foundation for his success began at BGSU.

"BGSU instilled communication and further developed leadership in me," Scott said. "From the President's Leadership Academy to the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Admissions, I was constantly reminded to be a servant leader and to create public good. I learned interpersonal, persuasive, strategic and gender communication skills that I still use to this day – whether I'm working with staffers, interns, mentees or in leadership development courses."

Scott first entered the political realm as a field organizer on President Barack Obama's 2012 re-election campaign, in addition to interning for the late U.S. Rep. John Lewis of Georgia. He then went on to work on campaigns for governors, mayors and state's attorney offices across the country, building experience in voter engagement, coalition building and campaign strategy.

"From starting my career as a campaign staffer working for President Obama to serving as the campaign manager for the first woman and Black woman elected mayor of my hometown of Detroit, my journey is truly a testament to the combined experience and skills I developed at BGSU and throughout my career," Scott said.

As a film production major, Scott made the most of his college experience by becoming deeply involved in campus organizations and leadership programs. He was a member of the Sidney A. Ribeau President's Leadership Academy, served as communications chair of the Black Intellects Group and held a leadership role within the BG 24 sports department.

"BGSU helped me rediscover my love of learning through the communications department, Black studies and film," said Scott. "BGSU and the President's Leadership Academy were the best things to happen to me. They were catalytic in my professional development through the foundation principles, networking and guidance I received."

After completing his work on the Sheffield transition team, Scott launched his own consulting business as a full-time independent general consultant on strategy. He currently advises Democratic candidates in Texas and Michigan, focusing on coalition development, infrastructure building and efforts to reshape political culture ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

With a resume full of political experience and a goal of running for office one day himself, Scott said he is thankful for everything BGSU provided him. He also remains impressed by the efforts of BGSU students and graduates.

"Given its location in the state and its historical impact on statewide elections, it's encouraging to see BGSU students entering the political field after graduation," Scott said. "It's also exciting to see initiatives like the Democracy and Public Policy Network creating more opportunities for students to engage in public service."

After the 2026 midterms, Scott hopes to turn his attention toward his own potential run for office – a path he believes was made possible by his time at BGSU.

"If I could do it all over again, I would still choose BG," said Scott. "BGSU gave me the foundation I needed, helped set the direction for my career and gave me a lifetime of memories, friends, mentees and opportunities."