Former Students Respond To COVID-19: Q&A With Mary-Christina Riley

In actions big and small, countless Aggies are making a difference as the world responds to this global pandemic.

Mary-Christina Riley ’14 is a member of the Department of Education's Legislative Affairs team, working to inform lawmakers as they think through education policies in response to COVID-19. Hear more about her work and how A&M helped her prepare to face this challenge.

What is your role in the response to COVID-19?

As a member of the Department of Education's Legislative Affairs team, I focus on higher education. Our top priority is providing Members of Congress and their staffs with information to better understand how the Department is assisting students and educators during this time. When Congress passed the CARES Act, they set aside over $30 billion to go out to states, schools and students. When congressional staff have questions about this funding, how it can be used, or if they have constituents who need assistance, I connect with the experts we have at the Department to answer their questions or look at the issue. Schools and the students continuing their education are facing an enormous amount of uncertainty. I know there are thousands of people across the country who are on the front lines - I'm just a facilitator. I hope that the information I'm able to communicate helps inform lawmakers as they are thinking through policies and most importantly, helps students and those on the education front lines.

How has your A&M education and experience influenced your work?

The Aggie spirit and core values remind us to be members of our communities and serve others. Now, more than ever, we need to put these values into practice. At Texas A&M, I went to the Bush School and President Bush's legacy of public service is a strong influence. My A&M education taught me that there are going to be challenging problems to solve, but you have to figure out a response with the resources you have.

What is something you want Aggies to know during this time?

We are going to be okay. I try to keep a positive perspective. That's not to lessen the personal sacrifices many people are making right now, but Americans have gone through hard times before and we will again. I'd bet on the American and Aggie spirit every time.

This is the second post in a series of interviews with former students who are directly involved in the nation's response to COVID-19. To suggest a former student for this series, email AggieNetwork@AggieNetwork.com.

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