If you were a student on the Upper Campus between 2010 and 2014, chances are you've been part of an audience that sat transfixed as Miranda Lichtman '14 held a note on stage, leaving everyone in the theater in awe. Today, Miranda still keeps her audiences on the edge of their seat, though now it's in her role as the Associate Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) where she tackles some of society's most urgent challenges. From combating hate to promoting equality, Miranda's journey from graduation reflects many of her strengths that took root during her time at Sierra Canyon—and continues to inspire as she champions causes that impact countless lives.
Early Days and Fond Memories
Miranda's studies at SC began in the 5th Grade and continued through graduation in 2014. "I made some of my closest friends and learned skills that have become part of who I am," she reflects, noting that many of her fondest memories center around the Performing Arts Department. Miranda was deeply involved in theater, participating in every production she could from 6th Grade through her senior year. Her final production, Cabaret, holds a special place in her heart. "Performing alongside friends in a production that felt professional and polished was exhilarating—I loved every second of it!"
Looking back, Miranda remembers Upper Campus English Instructor Eric Schrode as having a particularly meaningful impact on her studies, citing his unique teaching style that brought language and literature to life. "Mr. Schrode could make any book interesting," she remembers. His passion, especially during readings of Faulkner's As I Lay Dying, helped her see literature in a new light. "He taught me how to read beyond the words, and that skill has served me well, even outside of the arts."
An Early Calling to Leadership and Service
Today, Miranda emphatically credits her experiences at SC with laying the foundation for her interests in public service and leadership. She served as Student Body President in her senior year, a responsibility that helped shape her confidence as a public speaker and community advocate. "Having to address the Upper Campus every week refined my public speaking skills,” she recalls, skills she uses today in her work advocating for legislation, testifying in front of state congressional meetings, and presenting at ADL board meetings. "Sierra Canyon empowered me to be a leader and encouraged my academic curiosity, which became the basis for my career and life goals."
In addition to student government, Miranda's theater involvement had a profound impact on her future studies. Her time in SC's theater program led her to a successful chapter at NYU Tisch School of the Arts, where she studied acting and obtained her BFA in Drama.
A Shift from the Stage to Advocacy
After college, Miranda briefly pursued the arts but soon realized she was more drawn to the world of public service and policy. "I loved acting, but turning it into a career didn't feel right for me," she explains. Instead, Miranda entered the nonprofit sector, joining Advance Democracy Inc., a D.C.-based nonprofit dedicated to defending democratic institutions. There, she rose to the role of Associate Director of Operations and Communications, handling donor relations, partnerships, and public messaging. Soon, she found herself balancing this role with her studies while pursuing a Master's in Public Policy at the University of Southern California, which she completed in August.
Currently, in her position as the Associate Regional Director for the Anti-Defamation League's Los Angeles office, she focuses on countering hate and antisemitism through legislative advocacy, community partnerships, and volunteer oversight. "At the ADL, I work with various community partners, respond to incidents, and lobby for anti-hate legislation," she explains. "It's challenging work, but it's incredibly fulfilling to help make a difference on issues I care deeply about."
Staying Connected and Giving Back
Although her career keeps her busy, Miranda is still closely connected to Sierra Canyon. Many current students may recognize Miranda's last name, as her mother, Jennifer Lichtman, has been a drama teacher at SC since 2019, directing Middle School musical productions. Miranda proudly attends all the School's productions and enjoys supporting not only her mother but also the new generation of SC performers. "It's amazing to see the dedication and talent of the students today," she says. "Watching the next generation put on a show with that same passion I had is really inspiring."
Outside of work, Miranda keeps in touch with some lifelong friends from SC, "[My SC] friendships mean the world to me," she says. When asked about future goals, Miranda's aspirations include attending law school, possibly becoming a civil rights attorney, or working directly with elected officials on human rights issues. "I'm open to whatever path unfolds,” she shares, “but I definitely want to stay in the field of advocacy and make a positive impact."
Advice to Current Trailblazers
For students interested in a similar career, Miranda offers practical advice: "Take every meeting you can and reach out to people in fields that interest you. I message people from organizations that interest me on LinkedIn all the time, and some of them respond! Many people will be willing to have a brief Zoom meeting where you can pick their brains, even if they or their organization is not immediately hiring for a new position. Creating these personal connections is invaluable and could lead to a job in the future." She also emphasizes that hard work pays off but often requires patience and persistence. "You might not land your dream role right out of college, and that's okay. Build your network, learn from others, and let each experience bring you closer to your goal."
If you would like to connect or learn more about her work, Miranda invites fellow alums to reach out via email at [email protected].
