For the better.
I use data, evaluation, and cross-team collaboration to improve poverty, nutrition, and health.
To make them better.
I apply a range of rigorous methodologies—including regression models, machine learning algorithms, randomized controlled trials, survey data collection, and qualitative research—to deeply investigate and understand complex issues. My goal is to translate data into actionable insights with clear, meaningful messages that drive real-world impact.
In my academic research, I’ve tackled tough questions such as:
- How many food pantries exist in the U.S. and what factors predict their distribution?
- What happens to rates of child hunger if we give kids three meals a day in school?
- How do parents adapt their food-acquisition strategies when their kids are hungry?
Have you heard of SNAP (aka Food Stamps)? It is one of the largest welfare programs in the U.S. I’ve spent the last 10-years at the U.S. Department of Agriculture using research, data analytics, and evaluation to make it better and more effective.
I’ve served as a project manager —doing it all from conception to completion—for projects such as:
- A representative survey data collection in six persistently poor counties
- A multi-site randomized clinical trial to understand how to better reduce child hunger
- Investigating how people’s diets and health metrics differ by SNAP participation status
- Examined how to better coordinate SNAP with Child Support and Medicaid systems
In addition, as a Senior Analyst, I’ve also worked across teams to help improve poverty measurement, served as an expert consultant on a wide range of research and analytical projects, and mentored staff.
Also, I created and led our internal research group NERDS (Nutrition, Evaluation, Research, Design, and Science). Yes, it is fun. Yes, I used The Rebellion versus The Empire from Star Wars as a moral allegory to understand academic publishing.
I also spent time in the non-profit and advocacy world, using my expertise to improve the lives of those who experience hunger, poverty, and nutrition assistance programs.
Because I apparently loved long days and terrible traffic, I taught a Medical Sociology course at Georgetown University in the evenings for five semesters. It was great.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, trying to keep my saltwater aquarium alive (Nemo is hanging in there!), and listening to music.
Use the Contact Form to message me or fine me on LinkedIn.
Let’s work together to make things better.