Former presidential campaign manager discusses heritage, experience

Patti Solis Doyle, the first Hispanic woman to lead a presidential campaign, discussed her upbringing, heritage and passion for politics during a presentation October 3.

Solis Doyle, a Chicago native who led Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign in 2008, said her brother introduced her to politics while she was attending Northwestern University in Illinois.

“He invited me to join a street team that was campaigning for a local city official. That first experience campaigning on the streets is when I discovered my calling,” Solis Doyle said. “I love the process, game and strategy involved with politics.”

Throughout Solis Doyle’s 20 years of political experience, she said she looked up to many women in political roles, including Hillary Clinton. “Hillary was a role model to me. She is tough, supportive and she taught me most of what I know about campaigns,” she said.

Solis Doyle said her father’s advice has kept her grounded throughout her career. “He was very supportive of me attending college, and always said ‘value yourself, work hard and be authentic,’” she said.

Solis Doyle’s visit was sponsored by Grand Valley’s Office of Multicultural Affairs and was in conjunction with the Professional of Color Lecture Series and Hispanic Heritage Month.