It has been a year of firsts for Kerry Washington, who received her first Emmy nomination Thursday.

GW’s 2013 Commencement speaker was nominated for best lead actress in a drama series, ABC’s “Scandal,” in which she plays who plays crisis manager Olivia Pope. Washington is one of three first-time nominees in the category, like Robin Wright in “House of Cards.”

The 1998 alumna won an Image Award this year for the role, and has also been nominated and won awards for her roles in “Ray” and “Django Unchained.”

Off the screen, Washington has become known for her political activism, speaking at events like the Democratic National Convention last year. She also recently graced the cover of Vanity Fair and Elle magazines.

The Emmys will air on Sept. 22 on CBS.