Get To Know #MoxieMegs:
What Jeopardy category could you clear, no problem?
Disney Princesses (thanks to my 6-year-old, I’m well versed in all things Disney!)
Favorite Office Snack?
Trader Joe’s trail mix and LaCroix
Best account to follow on social media?
Anyone that makes laugh, especially about mom life: @Imomsohard @healthylittlepeach @pink
Who do you admire and why?
There are so many people I admire and that inspire me, it’s hard to pick one. I really admire people that are authentically themselves, are honest, are passionate about their work, aren’t afraid to take risks, set boundaries, and find humor in just about any situation.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Brene Brown has great words of wisdom! I’m reading “Dare to Lead” now and think I have highlighted every single page. One of my favorite quotes is: “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable but they’re never weakness.”
Best piece of advice you have ever received?
Learn to rest, not to quit. My dad always reminds me to slow down – I know I get my work ethic from him (for better or worse) so I have to remember to take a break from time to time.
Tell us about your position at North:
I’m one of the newest addition to North and the first one in Columbia, South Carolina. My role includes working with client organizations in South Carolina to advance their strategic communications and policy work. I grew up in the southeast, have a background in social work and a passion for improving child well-being. This role is a perfect fit for me personally and professionally.
How did your education prepare you for your career?
Social work is all about building relationships and advocating for others. I’ve always loved work that allows me to partner with people I respect and admire do advocate for social justice.
How has working in your industry changed the way you look at the world?
I’m definitely less naive now than when I started. I think having a healthy, realistic approach to work (and what’s actually possible to accomplish!) helps navigate life and day-to-day work. I once heard someone say “don’t get emotionally invested in someone’s answer.” This work will challenge and break your heart on a regular basis. It’s hard not to be emotionally invested in the outcomes when you are passionate about what you do – But at the end of the day, if you don’t get the answer you wanted it’s an opportunity to learn, grow and keep moving.
Share a notable (funny, embarrassing, exciting) experience you’ve had at work:
I was at a work conference out of state when I got a call from our adoption lawyer. A newborn was in Ohio and we were the first on the list! My husband threw a bag together for me and started driving to Ohio. I tried to fly back but only made it to North Carolina due to bad weather so he picked me up and we drove overnight to meet our daughter. That was more than 6 years ago and I will never forget the excitement and amazing support from my colleagues!
How do you handle work-life balance?
I set my phone to do not disturb after 9 p.m. I (usually!) don’t check e-mails late at night. I dedicate time to spend with my husband and daughter. I also walk the dog, go to spin classes and find other ways to move.
What advice would you give yourself in college?
Your worth is not defined by others. Give yourself a break and don’t be in a rush. This is your time to figure who your people are, experiences that make you happy and places that you love.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’ve completed two half marathons. One of the hardest and most rewarding things I’ve ever done.
What is something you’re proud of?
Hands down, my daughter. I’m so lucky to be her mom. I look at life in a different and better way; she’s taught me so much about myself.
Anything else you’d like to add about why you love North:
I love the energy and the talent. It’s empowering to be surrounded by women who are working hard together to accomplish big things. It’s truly special to be part of an environment like that and I’m grateful to be on team North!
https://www.instagram.com/moxiemegssc/ About Megan Branham
#MoxieMegs
Megan Branham lives in Columbia, South Carolina and has spent more than 12 years advocating in the non-profit sector to improve the lives of children across the Palmetto State. Since completing her Masters in Social Work at the University of South Carolina, Megan has advanced legislation and policies improving child well-being during her time at Children’s Trust of South Carolina and the Palmetto Association for Children and Families, implemented programs to improve maternal and child health with the South Carolina March of Dimes and has facilitated community efforts to prevent teen pregnancy while at Palmetto Health. She is also adjunct faculty at Columbia College and is a volunteer Guardian at Litem.
Megan is also a graduate of The Annie E. Casey Foundation’s Leadership Institute for State-based Advocates with an emphasis on results-based leadership. Megan is a member of the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina’s Kinship Council and serves on the Children’s Justice Act Taskforce.
When she’s not at the State House or working from one of her favorite local coffee shops on Main Street, Megan can be found spending time with her husband and daughter traveling, cheering for the Gamecocks or running a race at Disney World!
Follow her on Instagram @MoxieMegsSC
