4 | HelloWashington, District of Columbia • Winter Issue
Hello Washington, District of Columbia • Winter Issue |5
A Capital of Opportunity and Vibrancy
Living in Washington, D.C. isn't just about residing in the nation's capital; it's about becoming part of a dynamic and culturally
rich community that embodies both history and modern innovation. The city pulses with an energy that blends the charm of its historic architecture with the buzz of contemporary urban living. Home to numerous world-renowned monuments and museums, Washington, D.C. offers endless opportunities to explore and learn while enjoying the city's iconic landscapes.
Life in D.C. thrives on diversity and inclusivity, making it a welcoming place for people from all walks of life. Its neighborhoods offer an eclectic mix of experiences, from quaint cafes in Capitol Hill to eclectic boutiques and art galleries in Dupont Circle. Not to mention, the city’s culinary scene is a delight, featuring an array of cuisines that reflect the city’s international community.
Surrounded by lush parks and verdant spaces like Rock Creek Park and the National Mall, green spaces beckon those seeking tranquility amidst the urban tempo. Plus, a strong public transportation network makes exploring every corner of the city convenient and environmentally friendly. Living in Washington, D.C. is an invitation to embrace the unique blend of leadership, creativity, and cultural richness, ensuring that every day can be an exciting new adventure.
Exploring Life in Washington, D.C.
Exploring Life in Washington, D.C.: A Capital of Opportunity and Vibrancy
Living in Washington, D.C. isn't just about residing in the nation's capital; it's about becoming part of a dynamic and culturally rich community that embodies both history and modern innovation. The city pulses with an energy that blends the charm of its historic architecture with the buzz of contemporary urban living. Home to numerous world-renowned monuments and museums, Washington, D.C. offers endless opportunities to explore and learn while enjoying the city's iconic landscapes.
Life in D.C. thrives on diversity and inclusivity, making it a welcoming place for people from all walks of life. Its neighborhoods offer an eclectic mix of experiences, from quaint cafes in Capitol Hill to eclectic boutiques and art galleries in Dupont Circle. Not to mention, the city’s culinary scene is a delight, featuring an array of cuisines that reflect the city’s international community.
Surrounded by lush parks and verdant spaces like Rock Creek Park and the National Mall, green spaces beckon those seeking tranquility amidst the urban tempo. Plus, a strong public transportation network makes exploring every corner of the city convenient and environmentally friendly. Living in Washington, D.C. is an invitation to embrace the unique blend of leadership, creativity, and cultural richness, ensuring that every day can be an exciting new adventure.
HelloNation at the USCM Meeting, and Why the Partnership Matters
The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) convenes each year in Washington, D.C., bringing together mayors from across the country to discuss pressing urban challenges and national policy priorities. The Winter Meeting, scheduled this year for January 28 to January 30, 2026, is one of the
organization’s key gatherings where civic leaders engage with federal decision makers, exchange best practices, and shape agendas that affect communities across the nation.The USCM was established during the Great Depression as a forum for mayors to confront shared difficulties, advocate for
6 | HelloWashington, District of Columbia • Winter Issue
HelloNation at the USCM Meeting, and Why the Partnership Matters
The United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) convenes each year in Washington, D.C., bringing together mayors from across the country to discuss pressing urban challenges and national policy priorities. The Winter Meeting, scheduled this year for January 28 to January 30, 2026, is one of the organization’s key gatherings where civic leaders engage with federal decision makers, exchange best practices, and shape agendas that affect communities across the nation. The USCM was established during the Great Depression as a forum for mayors to confront shared difficulties, advocate for municipal needs, and collaborate on effective solutions. Today it remains the leading nonpartisan voice for U.S. cities in the nation’s capital. Its foundational purpose is to promote strong federal-city relationships, develop forward-looking urban and suburban policy, and provide mayors with tools and connections to lead effectively at home. At its core, the Winter Meeting is designed to foster direct engagement between mayors and top-level officials from the White House, the current administration, and Congress. Participants use the conference agenda to highlight local priorities, address emerging national issues, and work toward shared goals that can improve infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic opportunity. The annual convening also provides a platform for mayors to share best practices with one another. In formal sessions and informal conversations, leaders from diverse regions and city sizes exchange insights on innovation, crisis response, and community building. This cross-city dialogue often leads to collaborative initiatives that extend far beyond the conference halls. HelloNation’s engagement with the United States Conference of Mayors is a continuation of the two decade tenure that began with CGI Digital. Our organization has supported the USCM mission by amplifying the voices of city leaders through cutting-edge video programs and continues now with reporting on the practical impact of policy discussions and resolutions that matter to their citizens. The partnership has always been rooted in a shared commitment to telling the stories of municipal leadership and the ways cities adapt to change and pursue sustainable growth. Through editorial coverage, interviews, and multimedia storytelling, HelloNation broadens public understanding of the complex issues that mayors address daily. Renowned actor, Christopher McDonald, HelloNation’s national spokesperson, will be present at this year’s Winter Meeting, representing our continued interest in municipal affairs and our partnership with the USCM. McDonald’s presence underscores the importance HelloNation places on engaging directly with the leaders shaping local government responses to economic, social, and environmental challenges. This year’s conference agenda includes discussions on urban innovation, federal policy engagement, and strategic partnerships that can help cities thrive. While the Winter Meeting’s principal focus remains advocacy and policy exchange, it also offers valuable networking opportunities for mayors and stakeholders from the public and private sectors. These connections often lead to new collaborations that benefit cities and their residents. HelloNation, CGI Digital in partnership with USCM and America 250 will be filming Mayors at the event for what the 250th anniversary means to them and their cities. For HelloNation, attending the USCM Winter Meeting is an opportunity to witness and document how mayors articulate their communities’ priorities at the national level and to share those insights with our audience. With mayors from across the country convening to set policy directions and exchange ideas, the conference is a vital forum for understanding how local leadership influences broader national conversations.
Nicole Rongo
municipal needs, and collaborate on effective solutions. Today it remains the leading nonpartisan voice for U.S. cities in the nation’s capital. Its foundational purpose is to promote strong federal-city relationships, develop forward-looking urban and suburban policy, and provide mayors with tools and connections to
lead effectively at home.At its core, the Winter Meeting is designed to foster direct engagement between mayors and top-level officials from the White House, the current administration, and Congress. Participants use the conference agenda to highlight local priorities, address emerging national issues, and work toward shared goals that can improve infrastructure, public safety, housing, and economic opportunity.The annual convening also provides a platform for mayors to share best practices with one another. In formal sessions and informal conversations, leaders from diverse regions and city sizes exchange insights on...
The Winter Meeting is one of the organization’s key gatherings
About the Author
Nicole Rongo is Vice President of Government Relations & Strategic Partnerships at CGI Digital, Inc. Over her 20 year tenure, she has built hundreds of partnerships with municipal and county governments, chambers of commerce, and member-driven organizations nationwide, and serves as the primary point of contact for CGI Digital’s national partnerships with the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National League of Cities, and the National Association of Counties, advancing trusted, mission-driven ...
HelloWashington, District of Columbia • Winter Issue |7
8 | HelloWashington, District of Columbia • Winter Issue
Education in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is not just the epicenter of political influence; it is a beacon of educational excellence and innovation. The city's vibrant education landscape is characterized by a commitment to fostering a culture of lifelong
learning and empowering future leaders. At the heart of this commitment is a focus on creating inclusive, resource-rich environments where diversity in teaching and learning thrives.
From its renowned public schools to esteemed private institutions, Washington, D.C., offers a rich tapestry of educational opportunities. Noteworthy initiatives like the DC Public Schools' modern STEAM programs and partner-driven mentorships highlight
Unlocking Potential
Hello Washington, District of Columbia • Winter Issue |9
the city's forward-thinking approach to education. These programs not only enhance traditional learning but also equip students with the skills necessary to excel in a rapidly changing world.
Moreover, the presence of prestigious universities, such as George Washington University and Georgetown University, further underscores D.C.'s status as an educational nucleus. These institutions connect educators, researchers, and
public policy experts, fostering a spirit of innovation and critical inquiry.
Through its dynamic blend of resources, partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to educational advancement, Washington, D.C., stands out as a community where learning knows no bounds and every student has the opportunity to achieve greatness.
Unlocking Potential
Unlocking Potential: Education in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is not just the epicenter of political influence; it is a beacon of educational excellence and innovation. The city's vibrant education landscape is characterized by a commitment to fostering a culture of lifelong learning and empowering future leaders. At the heart of this commitment is a focus on creating inclusive, resource-rich environments where diversity in teaching and learning thrives.
From its renowned public schools to esteemed private institutions, Washington, D.C., offers a rich tapestry of educational opportunities. Noteworthy initiatives like the DC Public Schools' modern STEAM programs and partner-driven mentorships highlight the city's forward-thinking approach to education. These programs not only enhance traditional learning but also equip students with the skills necessary to excel in a rapidly changing world.
Moreover, the presence of prestigious universities, such as George Washington University and Georgetown University, further underscores D.C.'s status as an educational nucleus. These institutions connect educators, researchers, and public policy experts, fostering a spirit of innovation and critical inquiry.
Through its dynamic blend of resources, partnerships, and a steadfast dedication to educational advancement, Washington, D.C., stands out as a community where learning knows no bounds and every student has the opportunity to achieve greatness.
