Janine Gianfredi DC'02 graduated with a B.A. in English & Political Science, and certificates from the Eagleton Institute of Politics and the Institute for Women's Leadership. Shortly after graduation, she joined Google NYC and began her career in tech. She initially focused on marketing a portfolio of digital advertising products at a time when the communications industry was rapidly changing. After several years in the New York office Janine moved to California to join Google X (the company's experimental lab) where she first led brand development and partnerships for Google Glass, and later managed marketing and communications for a global internet connectivity initiative and the self-driving car project. She joined the Obama Administration in 2015 to build and run a brand and strategic communications practices for the United States Digital Service, a newly launched organization within the White House designed to attract top tech talent to improve the federal government's technology and citizen services. Currently, Janine leads the global brand marketing team for Instagram, overseeing the company's efforts in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. She is a proud member of the Douglass Advisory Board, and is committed to increasing the presence of women in leadership.
What role did Douglass play in your college experience and beyond?
Douglass shaped me both as a leader and as a feminist, giving me the unique opportunity to experiment with leadership as a young woman. Through the IWL Scholars Program, I took public speaking courses and learned how to manage a budget -- two necessary skills for a leader in any organization. I learned how to effectively use my voice, especially when outnumbered. The access I had to mentors, and the ability to mentor younger Douglass students instilled in me the value of connecting women to one another, and using my talents to help others rise. Most importantly I credit my time at Douglass with introducing me to intersectionality, which broadened my perspective and understanding of diversity and equity, and continues to power me years later to be a more inclusive and mindful leader.
What are some of your favorite Douglass memories?
Attending Sacred Path in senior year with my best friend Aileen. We met during our sophomore year at Douglass in a comparative history class, and spent many late nights together in the computer lab (hardly anyone had laptops then!). We committed to participating in as many unique Douglass traditions as possible before graduation, and enjoyed each one. I'll never forget tossing our pine cones into the big bonfire on a beautiful spring night, excited and nervous about what the future had in store for us. Years later, we've been each other's bridesmaids, shared Thanksgiving dinner with our families, and traveled to far corners of the world to practice yoga and meditation together.
What does Douglass mean to you?
To me, Douglass stands for history, community, and sisterhood. As a Douglass grad, you can be confident that there is a network of incredible women who are ready to provide support, guidance, and assistance -- all you need to do is ask! I'm especially proud to be a part of a century's long tradition of fostering women's education and leadership. The roots of Douglass' community are deep, and have been strengthened through their longevity.
Douglass Residential College
