FEATURED STORY
Young Republicans
Cross Ritchey '23, Government Relations Consultant
Ritchey double majored in political science and legal studies at FSU. He curently resides in Finzel, Md.
What does your job entail?
I’m a government relations consultant, which basically means I’m the person who helps bridge the gap between everyday folks and the government. Before diving into this role, I had the privilege of working with State Senator McKay and then with Delegate Buckel, the House Minority Leader, which gave me a real inside look at how legislation takes shape. Now, whether I’m scheduling meetings with legislators or helping a client find the right words to share their story, I love that my job lets me connect people, ideas and policy to make a real difference. I’m also incredibly thankful to my boss, Brandon Butler '05, and his firm, Pinnacle Strategies, for trusting me enough to bring me on board. Their support and leadership have given me the chance to keep learning and growing in a career that lets me help others every day.
Why is this your “dream job”?
I’ve always felt a genuine calling to help people, and working in government relations allows me to do exactly that on a bigger stage. Whether I’m helping someone understand a piece of legislation or connecting a community group with the right officials, every day offers a chance to make a positive impact. It’s incredibly rewarding to use my voice and experience to help others be heard—I’m making a tangible difference in people’s lives. On top of that, I’m so thankful to work with such an amazing team that supports and challenges me to keep learning and growing. It’s that sense of purpose and community that makes this job so special.
How did FSU prepare you for your current position?
Frostburg State University gave me the solid foundation I needed to pursue a career in government relations. From thought-provoking political science courses to hands-on experiences like student organizations and internships, FSU helped me understand how policy and advocacy work in the real world. The supportive professors and the tight-knit campus community also pushed me to think critically, speak up for what I believe in and hone the leadership skills I rely on every day. Most importantly, FSU nurtured my passion for helping others and showed me the power of collaboration, which continues to shape how I approach my work now.
Did you have an FSU mentor? If so, who were they and how did they help you?
Absolutely! I was incredibly lucky to have several amazing mentors at FSU. Dr. Scott Johnson sparked my interest in constitutional law, which gave me the foundation I still rely on today. Dr. Hartlaub not only introduced me to political philosophy but also showed me the value of being a genuinely positive person—lessons that guide every interaction I have. Dr. Stephen Twing, God rest his soul, pushed me to pursue my master’s in national security and never let me settle for less than my best. And Mr. Timothy Magrath gave me hands-on experiences through internships, teaching me the ropes of state and local government. Each of them played a unique role in shaping the path I’m on now, and I’m thankful every day for their guidance.
What is a future career goal?
I was raised to believe that if you want to make God laugh, make a plan. I’ve always felt a calling to serve the public in some capacity, but I’m still figuring out exactly what form that might take. For now, I’m truly content with where I’m at in life and grateful for the opportunities I’ve had so far. I trust that when the time is right, the next step in my journey will make itself clear—I’m just excited to see what possibilities unfold as I continue to follow my calling.
What is a future personal goal?
One personal goal I’m really excited about is finishing my Master’s this spring. It’s something I’ve been working toward for a while, and I can’t wait to cross that finish line. Beyond that, another important goal for me is to stay true to my faith and follow God’s guidance. Both are meaningful milestones that give me a sense of purpose and remind me why I do what I do every day.
What advice would you give a recent graduate in pursuing his/her/their “dream job”?
I’d say the most important thing is to stay curious and keep learning, no matter what field you’re in. Seek out mentors who inspire you, don’t be afraid to take risks when opportunities pop up and lean into experiences that challenge your comfort zone. It’s also vital to believe in your own worth—your passion and persistence can open doors you never knew existed. And finally, remember that the path to your dream job isn’t always a straight line, but every detour can teach you something valuable if you let it.
