Dokhi Fassihian
Arlington,VA
Summary
Experienced social science professional with 15+ years leading democracy, civic education, and human rights programs. Exploring a mid-career transition to primary and secondary education as a School-Based Substitute Teacher in Arlington County, where I was raised and educated. Leveraging higher education, youth mentorship, cross-cultural collaboration, and managing diverse teams to support student learning and engagement.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Deputy Chief of Strategy and Program
ISSUE ONE
02.2022 - 10.2023
- Led strategic planning and communications, including press, branding, and a national podcast
- Designed and launched an election protection campaign, securing $2M in funding
- Managed and mentored a diverse team, fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring smooth transitions across various tasks and projects
Washington Director (Interim)
PEN AMERICA
02.2021 - 05.2021
- Directed legislative and policy advocacy on global free expression issues
- Led bipartisan efforts in Congress to advance press freedom and local journalism initiatives
- Mentored junior staff, encouraged active participation, and adapted quickly to evolving priorities and challenges
Executive Director
REPORTERS WITHOUT BORDERS USA
08.2019 - 07.2020
- Led press freedom advocacy and strategy for North America
- Developed RSF USA's first theory of change and managed a $1.5M budget
- Supervised a cross-cultural team, guided individual development, and ensured effective collaboration on high-impact projects
Director, Middle East and North Africa Program
FREEDOM HOUSE
02.2015 - 07.2019
- Directed MENA programs on media freedom, human rights, and democracy
- Managed and mentored a globally diverse team
- Secured $6M in funding and oversaw grants to civil society partners
- Taught a seminar on UN reform at George Washington University, inspiring student engagement and interest in international policy
Governance Consultant & Human Rights Advisor
FASSIHIAN CONSULTING
09.2011 - 12.2014
- Advised organizations on governance, human rights, and electoral policy
- Provided strategic guidance on UN resolutions, international advocacy, and political reform initiatives
- Led training sessions and workshops for professionals, encouraging active engagement and fostering growth
Executive Director
DEMOCRACY COALITION PROJECT
05.2008 - 07.2011
- Led global advocacy for UN human rights reform
- Managed research, coalition-building, and grant programs supporting international democracy efforts
- Supervised and mentored early-career professionals in policy and advocacy, fostering a positive and productive environment for growth
Education
Master of Arts - Advanced International Studies
John Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
George Mason University
International Human Rights Law and Advocacy Certificate -
International Service for Human Rights
Executive Media Training -
Throughline Group
Arabic Language Certificate of Distinction -
International Language Institute
Skills
- Mentorship
- Leadership
- Problem Solving
- Adaptability
- Effective Communication
- Public Speaking
- Presentations
- Student Engagement
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Persian
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Deputy Chief of Strategy and Program
ISSUE ONE
02.2022 - 10.2023
Washington Director (Interim)
PEN AMERICA
02.2021 - 05.2021
Executive Director
REPORTERS WITHOUT BORDERS USA
08.2019 - 07.2020
Director, Middle East and North Africa Program
FREEDOM HOUSE
02.2015 - 07.2019
Governance Consultant & Human Rights Advisor
FASSIHIAN CONSULTING
09.2011 - 12.2014
Executive Director
DEMOCRACY COALITION PROJECT
05.2008 - 07.2011
Bachelor of Arts - International Studies
George Mason University
International Human Rights Law and Advocacy Certificate -
International Service for Human Rights
Executive Media Training -
Throughline Group
Master of Arts - Advanced International Studies
John Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies
Arabic Language Certificate of Distinction -
International Language Institute
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