Ruthanne Buck is an education expert, organizational leader and strategic operative with extensive experience in the political and non-profit sectors. Ruthanne formed SquadBuck in 2017 and since has been fortunate to work alongside this brilliant and joyful team. From 2012 through 2016, Ruthanne served as a Senior Adviser to the U.S. Secretaries of Education John King and Arne Duncan, appointed by President Barack Obama. Prior to joining the Department, Ruthanne was Assistant to the President for Special Projects and National Field Director at the American Federation of Teachers. In 2021, Ruthanne served as an education advisor on President Joe Biden’s transition team, and in 2022 co-founded the Campaign for Our Shared Future. 

Ruthanne began her career in 2001 at the Democratic National Committee working on women's and LGBTQIA+ issues. She has led major field and political operations on behalf of progressive issues, agencies and candidates, with a particular focus on education. Ruthanne is passionate about the rights of all humans to live free, safe and proud. She was raised in Alexandria, Louisiana; educated at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts; and lives in Takoma Park, Maryland.