Madison is originally from Hudson, Wisconsin. He graduated from the University of Denver in 2019 with a double major in International Studies and Spanish, and a minor in Entrepreneurship. During his undergraduate experience, he participated in humanitarian efforts in Bhaktapur, Nepal and Jinotega, Nicaragua. In addition, Madison completed an immersive internship with the Indigenous community of San Clemente, Ecuador, where he researched and composed an ethnography on the implications of sustainable development. After graduation Madison was a member of Teach for America, and served as a Teacher of English as a Second Language in Memphis, Tennessee, advocating for students and families of diverse backgrounds.

In the GHD Program, Madison is specializing in Environment and Climate, and Food, Agriculture, & Rural Livelihoods. He is also studying Portuguese, and pursuing certificates in Social Innovation and Global Development, and Diplomatic Studies. During the summer, Madison worked with the World Bank as a consultant with the Food and Agriculture Global Practice. His time was split between Washington DC, and Brasilia, Brazil, supporting various World Bank initiatives. Madison conducted in-depth research into the sugarcane industry of Brazil, including topics surrounding bioenergy opportunities, public policies, labor markets, environmental impacts, and consumption patterns. During this time, Madison also worked as an intern with the Inter-American Development Bank. This work centered around the creation of a live database encompassing accelerators, startups, and investors engaged in climate-related endeavors. These experiences at the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank further enriched Madison's dedication to development. After GHD, Madison envisions himself working with an organization that facilitates climate-smart development projects that promote sustainability, fosters trust, and employs local communities.

Summer internship Experience

Agriculture and Food Global Practice of The World Bank Group

Over the summer I had the meaningful opportunity working for the Agriculture and Food Global Practice of The World Bank Group. As a leading financier of agriculture worldwide, this department focuses on global food security, climate smart agriculture, food system jobs, and agribusiness value chains. I worked for five weeks at the Washington, D.C headquarters and five weeks at Brazil's field office in Brasília, Brazil. As a member of the team I supported ongoing projects, drafted event proposals, and participated in a field mission where I was able to observe engaging discussions between The World Bank and relevant government agencies concerning a recently funded development project. My experience culminated with writing a blog post on the economics of the sugarcane industry in Brazil, where I researched production and consumption patterns, trade and labor market effects, environmental implications, and avenues for shifting public policies in favor of more sustainable practices.

Why GHD?

I elected to join GHD for the practitioner-focused coursework, renowned faculty, and incredible professional development opportunities. The connections I have made and experiences I have gained will benefit me for a lifetime!