Graham Godwin, Founder
Graham founded Rooted Impact on the belief that the best decisions emerge when solid data is understood through the lens of real community experience. As a researcher, strategist, and community leader, he brings deep experience in political analysis, program development, and cross-sector collaboration to help organizations move from questions to clarity and from clarity to lasting impact.
Graham’s career has been shaped by roles at the intersection of research, policy, and community needs. As Social Action Coordinator at West Virginia Wesleyan College, he conducted strategic reviews of campus programs, facilitated leadership courses, and built partnerships with organizations addressing issues central to the region. His work underscored the value of listening deeply, understanding context, and translating information into meaningful action.
As Executive Director of the Randolph County Housing Authority (RCHA), Graham led an organization focused on housing, workforce development, and social services. He strengthened regional collaboration with partners such as the Coalition to End Homelessness, the Continuum of Care, Catholic Charities, Fahe, WorkForce WV, and numerous local agencies and elected officials. Under his leadership, RCHA secured significant grant funding, expanded workforce initiatives for at-risk populations, and advanced community-driven solutions across North Central West Virginia.
Before joining RCHA, Graham served as Head of Research at Orion Strategies, overseeing legislative analysis, regulatory review, and policy intelligence across sectors including energy, healthcare, manufacturing, technology, and transportation. His work centered on translating complex political and policy data into clear, actionable insight for leaders navigating high-stakes decisions.
Earlier in his career, Graham served as a Peace Corps NGO Development Consultant in Kyrgyzstan, where he strengthened non-profit capacity, facilitated cross-cultural partnerships, and supported USAID-funded initiatives. Working within governmental and community systems abroad deepened his commitment to development that is sustainable, collaborative, and grounded in local realities.
Graham holds a B.S. in Political Science and History from Shepherd University and a master’s degree from West Virginia University. Through Rooted Impact, he continues to help organizations understand their communities, strengthen their programs, and make decisions rooted in both evidence and lived experience.