Meet Our Fellows: Orice Williams Brown

Orice Williams Brown ('18), Government Accountability Office - Chief Operating Officer

Q. Who or what inspired you to work in government?

I often describe myself as an “accidental” public servant. I never wanted to work for the federal government and went to business school with the intent of working in the financial services sector—investment banking, specifically. I backed into federal service as my plan B after the 1987 market crash and a tight job market in that sector. My plan was to work in federal service a few years and then pursue my original career path. That said, my first week on the job I absolutely fell in love with GAO and its mission. I knew very early on that I had found my career. Therefore, I would say that working at GAO is what inspired me to continue to work in government.

Q. What advice would you give to those interested in pursuing a career in government?

My advice would be to do it. It is important work that requires dedication and commitment. If you want to make government work better for the American people, working in federal service is the only way to do it.

I also would suggest that they talk to anyone they know who is working in government or has worked in government to help them navigate the hiring process. Sometimes it can be hard for some folks to translate their background, knowledge and skills into the comparable federal position. Having someone to help translate is helpful.

Q. What do you most enjoy about working for the U.S. Government Accountability Office?

In additional to the mission, people, and purpose, what I enjoy most is working in a constant learning environment. As someone who would have been a perpetual student if left to my own devices, I have the opportunity to learn something new every day. We do work across government and in any given day I can go from reading a report or discussing an audit on the latest weapons system acquisition to being briefed on an audit of persistent chemicals in drinking water to consumer ratings.

Q. What is your favorite cuisine?

Italian, I love any kind of pasta.

Q. What is your favorite hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time?

I have two--reading and walking. I vacillate between reading fiction and nonfiction. I love a good psychological thriller with an unexpected plot twist. On the activity side, I have added a morning walk as my sanity check during the pandemic. For the past two years, I’ve start virtually every day with a brisk 2-mile walk. I love taking in the sounds of nature and I’m always looking out for new birds that I then research. It keeps me grounded and open to the day ahead.

Q. What was your dream job as a child?

I wanted to be a pediatrician.