Beena Patel maintains a close watch on the pulse of what's happening with the federal legislature and government agencies in the nation's capital. She has more than a decade of working as a liaison and advocate with a proven record of accomplishment in representing interests to the legislature, executive branch, agencies, associations and coalitions. Beena is adept at synthesizing policy implications, identifying best practices and client goals and objectives, and translating their goals into actionable federal work plans.
Beena works with a broad array of federal agencies across multiple issue areas, thinking strategically and analytically about policy and advocacy recommendations. By tracking, monitoring and drafting language on a range of policy issues, she also helps implement strategies through the passage of legislation and amendments. In advising clients on legislative and regulatory developments and other key issues impacting public sector clients across the nation, she delivers innovative strategic advocacy plans and big picture insights.
Beena collaborates with local governments, communities, universities, transportation coalitions, health care organizations, education associations and tech-based economic development groups on their federal agendas.
Representative Experience
- Provided a local government with strategic advice and recommendations on how to be competitive for a SAMSHA grant leading to $5 million in federal funding
- Designed and implemented a federal engagement plan resulting in passage of an extension and expansion of the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program in the FY 2015 National Defense Authorization Act
- Developed a successful strategy leading to the passage of the Emergency Afghan Allies Extension Act of 2014
- Developed a successful approach for a local government to be included in the Obama administration’s Promise Zone initiative
- Strategized to advance regional cluster development programs and initiatives within the Obama administration
- Co-authored a report, "Rebuilding the Economy Through Regional Innovation in the Life Sciences Sector," to identify successful solutions
Before joining FaegreBD Consulting, Beena earned a master’s in public policy from the University of Southern California and worked abroad on water pollution mitigation techniques on the Fenjing River in the City of Foshan, China.
Beena's previous experience includes working as a governmental affairs consultant with Waste Management, Inc. in Los Angeles, partnering closely with cities and counties in California on a range of municipal solid waste issues. In her role, Beena advised the LA Market Area team on local government contracts and proposals and sustainability initiatives while facilitating community outreach/development, public awareness and branding campaigns.
Additional experience includes working at Los Angeles-based nonprofits in public health advocacy and economic development.
- Faegre Baker Daniels — Outstanding Pro Bono Service Award, 2014; Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2014 and 2015
- Pi Alpha Alpha Honor Society (National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration)
- California State Society
- Amnesty International USA
- Human Rights Watch Global Network
- University of Southern California — DC Alumni Chapter