Councilmember Cathy Moore's Staff

Email Hannah

Hannah Thoreson joined Councilmember Cathy Moore after serving as a Legislative Aide to Councilmember Alex Pedersen and previously as the Development Coordinator at Refugee Women’s Alliance (ReWA) in Seattle.

Hannah earned her Master of Public Administration from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs at Syracuse University. She completed her bachelor degree at the University of Washington where she studied political science and human rights.

Prior to her work at the nonprofit ReWA, Hannah conducted outreach to build public health and environmental campaigns throughout Washington State, including in Seattle.

Hannah, who is proficient in speaking Spanish, arrived in Panama to serve as a member of the Peace Corps, and was one of thousands of volunteers to be evacuated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While earning her master’s degree in 2021, Hannah was a Research Assistant for the former head of the UN’s World Food Programme and served as a consultant for the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

Hannah grew up in Federal Way, WA. When not working at City Hall, she enjoys playing soccer with her team, "Sasquatch".

Email Newell

Newell Aldrich a Seattle-area native and University of Washington graduate, with degrees in Political Science and Spanish. He has lived and worked in Spain and Alaska.

He formerly served as Legislative Aide to City Councilmembers Nick Licata, and Lisa Herbold.

His areas of policy focus have included transportation, budget, utilities, public safety, environment, arts and music, and numerous neighborhood issues. He has also staffed issues related to the Council Presidency. When not working, he enjoys soccer, photography, swimming, cycling, and live music.

Email Melisa

Melisa is a lifelong Washington state residence who has resided in Seattle since 1992.  For over 15 years she worked in elder care advocacy for a non-profit organization.  Prior to joining Councilmember Moore’s team, she managed the office of a small business in Seattle. She is excited to be part of this new chapter working with Councilmember Moore and the residents of Seattle.

In her spare time, she enjoys basking in the beautiful natural landscape of the Pacific Northwest.