Meet the Team: Spring 2018
Meet the newest members of the U.S. Digital Service family.
Florence Kasule, Digital Services Procurement Expert at DSVA
I’ve been with USDS for three full months and I really enjoy being part of the Procuremenati — the team of Acquisition rock stars! Prior to joining the USDS, I was an operational Contracting Officer and Contract Specialist for different agencies, including DoD, HHS, and the NLRB. My focus in Acquisitions has been on the procurement of IT goods & services, which I totally enjoy because of how necessary technology is to how we all work and the services the Government provides to the public. I’m currently helping the VA with their Digital Service Acquisition planning.
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
The three little people that I share with my husband are my greatest loves. They know me fully, and are so full of joy, light, love and plain old fun! And my husband too for sure!
Who are your favorite writers?
I’m originally from Uganda and really connect with authors from the continent and diaspora. My absolute favorites are Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigerian), Tsitsi Dangarembga (Zimbabwean), Chinua Achebe (Nigerian) and Edwidge Danticat (Haitian).
What is your motto?
“Do or do not, there is no try.” Yoda (Star Wars)
Michael Rivera, Talent Recruiter at USDS HQ
I previously worked at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, where I helped build and maintain a unique (for government) recruitment outfit that brought on folks from tech, finance, legal, and business worlds. At USDS I hope to continue bringing in people that help government be better for the American people.
What is your motto?
Be less certain.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Teleportation. Commuter life can be a bit much.
What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?
Aimlessness.
Tammy Dao, Talent Operations Specialist at USDS HQ
At USDS, I am working on enhancing the operations of talent processes. Previously, I spent four years as a Reporting Analyst supporting consumers at Google and two years at Kforce, Inc. I’m super excited to help the talent team grow USDS with thoughtfulness and efficiency.
What do you most value in your friends?
Thoughtfulness and honesty.
How would you like to die?
In my sleep, quick and painless.
Where would you most like to live?
By the water — top choice being the beach.
Nick Hake, Talent Operations Specialist at USDS HQ
Before starting at U.S. Digital Service, I worked in recruiting for USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance. I also had the opportunity to recruit for Peace Corps at college campuses and communities in Texas, and have enjoyed working with people who want to make a positive difference. As a member of the USDS Talent Team, I am looking forward to having the opportunity to work with people with a strong interest in shaping the way the U.S. Government provides services to the public.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
“That’s interesting”.
What is your current state of mind?
Curious and thankful.
When and where are you happiest?
Visiting new places with my wife both here in the U.S., and abroad.
The best of technology.
The best of government.
And we want you.
We’re looking for the most tenacious designers, software engineers, product managers, and more, who are committed to untangling, rewiring and redesigning critical government services. You’ll join a team of the most talented technologists from across the private sector and government.
If you have questions regarding employment with the U.S. Digital Service, please contact us at usds@omb.eop.gov and visit usds.gov/join.