About Our Fellows & Vistas

Our vistas and fellows come from nationally affiliated organizations that are focused on helping non-profit organizations and communities within rural, tribal, and disadvantaged urban areas. They are a part of the effort to tackle some of the nation’s most pressing issues. Here at 100 Rural Women, they help us empower a future where more women lead.

Meet our fellows

A picture of a woman with short dark hair wearing a black dress smiling at a restaurant table.

Emma Ross Higgins

Emma was a Lead for Minnesota fellow, and served with 100 Rural Women for 14 months. Though a Native New Yorker and lover of Manhattan, where she grew up, Emma has never felt so connected to a place as she has Minnesota. During her time with our organization, she enjoyed the chance to be an advocate for and connect with rural women. Emma graduated with honors from Macalester College in May 2020, with a B.A in Political Science. During her time in school, she began working with Representative Pinto at the legislature, and Policy Director for MNCASA, Lindsay Brice. Outside of work, she enjoys running, reading, comedy, and going out to dinner.

A picture of a man smiling and sitting on a rock in front of a large, green valley.

Ryan Babcock

Ryan was an AmeriCorps Vista whose work focused on building sustainable communities through grants, outreach, and data analysis. Through AmeriCorps, he had the opportunity to serve with 100 Rural Women for 12 months. In 2018, Ryan graduated from Virginia Tech with a B.S. in Marketing Management. His knowledge and background of marketing skills helped bolster the voices of rural women. When he is not working, you will find him hiking, completing jigsaw puzzles, or working on his collection of personal essays.