Rep. Lindsay Powell's Biography

Lindsay Powell was elected to the House in 2023 to represent the 21st Legislative District in Allegheny County.

Powell earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Wheaton College and a Master of Science degree in Public Policy Management from Carnegie Mellon University Heinz College. She also won CMU Heinz College’s Otto A. Davis Award, which recognizes a graduate’s commitment to racial and social justice.

Powell has worked for progressive officials such as U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer and U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries and, upon proudly receiving a Fulbright Scholarship, taught English in Malaysia to rural high school students.

She also acted as a city of Pittsburgh assistant chief of staff for almost half a decade and directed legislation and policy for city departments. Powell oversaw the creation of the first citywide digital equity initiative, the expansion of the summer free meal program during the pandemic, and the implementation of Avenues of Hope, a catalyst for small businesses to open on city main streets.

Powell served as director of workforce strategies for InnovatePGH, with a focus on creating employment opportunities for underrepresented technologists in the Pittsburgh tech ecosystem.

Powell is an alumna of the Pittsburgh chapter of the New Leaders Council and a board member of NeighborWorksSWPA and the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

Key issues for Powell include safe and dignified housing for all, helping working families, assisting small businesses and strengthening the local economy, and increasing the number of community assets.

Powell resides in Lawrenceville with her beloved dog, Willow.