About me
Nicole Patton is a policy and advocacy professional with extensive experience advancing disability rights, legislative strategy, and government relations at the state and federal levels. She serves as Manager of Policy & Advocacy at Fountain House, where she oversees the organization’s New York State policy agenda, leads legislative and regulatory initiatives, and cultivates strategic relationships with congressional, state, and agency offices. Previously, Ms. Patton spent over five years with the National Down Syndrome Society, where she directed state government relations and built their grassroots advocacy programs, engaging advocates nationwide. Her leadership in policy development, legislative analysis, and public communications contributed to advancing key federal, state, and local initiatives benefiting individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Ms. Patton’s career is grounded in direct service and legislative operations, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of both the policy landscape and the lived experiences of disability communities. She has been recognized as one of the Top 21 Advocacy Professionals by the Advocacy Association and nominated for the Women in Government Relations Excellence in Advocacy Awards
