Mitch is a research scientist with expertise in qualitative research methods, ethnographic inquiry, and participatory research approaches. Mitch works on studies in early childhood education, program evaluation, and culture in U.S. society. As a trained sociocultural anthropologist, Mitch employs a reflexive, community-focused lens to research, ensuring that findings are actionable and responsive to the needs of the communities most impacted. He has led qualitative data collection efforts, developed respondent recruitment strategies, authored survey instruments, developed theories of change and action, and conducted in-depth analyses for projects spanning federal, philanthropic, and nonprofit sectors. His work frequently involves designing and implementing studies that inform policy and practice in early childhood and K-12 education systems. 

At NORC, Mitch plays a key role in many large-scale projects. He serves as project manager for the Financing Early Care and Education: Quality and Access for All (F4EQ) study, which explores how Head Start programs leverage multiple funding sources to enhance service provision. He co-led survey design, presented findings at conferences, and will lead an upcoming case study. As task lead for the National Descriptive Study of Transitions from Head Start to Kindergarten (HS2K), Mitch investigates strategies that foster smooth transitions for young learners. His contributions include co-authoring surveys, reports, and memos; designing data visualizations; and presenting study findings to diverse audiences. Mitch also serves as a lead researcher on the Indigenizing National Arts and Culture Survey Measures project, which seeks to create more culturally inclusive national survey measures of arts and cultural participation. Additionally, he leads training and technical assistance for the AstraZeneca Foundation’s health access initiative, collaborating with grantees to co-develop culturally responsive evaluation frameworks that assess efforts to reduce health disparities.

Before joining NORC, Mitch held roles in policy analysis, program evaluation, and community engagement. As a policy and program support analyst at Freshwater Future, he worked on environmental policy advocacy and grassroots organizing, providing research support for local water justice initiatives. He also served as a governing board member and treasurer for Michigan’s Hudson Township, where he contributed to municipal budgeting and zoning policy decisions.