A little About Mackenzie
Mackenzie has always been curious about people, stories, and the world around her. She’s drawn to the stories people tell, the ones they carry with them, and the ones that emerge from the places and communities they call home. Her curiosity has taken her from creative writing and editing to political science, research, and community engagement, and she’s happiest when she’s learning something new, creating something meaningful, or getting completely absorbed in an interesting idea.
Her Work
Mackenzie Simms is a writer, editor, and political science scholar whose work brings together communication, research, organization, and community engagement. With a Bachelor's of Arts in Writing and Political Science from Grand Valley State University, she has developed experience across professional writing and editing, nonprofit and community work, program administration, political campaigns, and research.
Her professional experience has given her the opportunity to work across a range of settings and audiences. She has supported grant-funded initiatives including the Great Start to Readiness Program and Promise Neighborhoods. She has worked with families and community partners, contributed to a local judicial campaign, and most recently supported Family Futures’ Community Engagement team through the development of educational materials and other community-focused projects.
Her academic background in Writing has shaped her particular interest in storytelling, audience, and the ways language can create connection. She is especially drawn to creative nonfiction, where personal stories and observations can be used to explore larger questions about people, place, and society. Her studies in Political Science have complemented that perspective by deepening her interest in public policy, local government, and the issues affecting communities.
Across her work, Mackenzie is drawn to opportunities that allow her to combine strong writing and research with organization, collaboration, and meaningful community impact.
Outside of The Work
Reading
NewYork Sketches by E.B. White — a collection of observant short stories, poems, and reflections about the people, places, and contradictions that make New York feel like New York.
Writing
Too many things at once, per usual. Mostly poems and flash pieces of creative nonfiction this summer!
Listening
Always Taylor Swift, specifically Folklore and Lover albums have been on repeat this month.
Watching
Love Story John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette — currently very invested in 1990s New York, Carolyn Bessette's wardrobe, and the complicated romance at the center of it all.
Spending Time
Making the most of Michigan summer with lots of time up north, eating ice cream, taking long walks with friends, and near a lake whenever possible!