Avery V. Mead is the Senior Grant Writer at Americans for Financial Reform. Prior to working in development and financial policy, they served as a public school teacher and high school librarian for 15 years. They taught film and created a grant-funded filmmaking program, improved reading accessibility, and advocated for marginalized students, particularly students of color and LGBTQ+ students. In addition to their background in education and advocacy, Avery has an MFA in creative writing and served on the committees for the Washington State Book Award (youth titles) and Stonewall Book Award (adult literature). This is their second year judging the 50 Hour Slam.
