CHICAGO, April 24, 2024 – NORC at the University of Chicago is pleased to welcome Jenna Scott as vice president of Education & Child Development (ECD). 

Scott brings more than 20 years of evaluation expertise to her new role, including leading the evaluations of key federal education programs and working with states and districts on the implementation of their Every Student Succeeds Act plans. Drawing on her training as a mixed-methods researcher, Scott uses culturally responsive evaluation and capacity-building frameworks in her research.

Scott has extensive experience leading education and collective impact projects for a diverse range of clients. She is a subject matter expert on issues related to racism and ethnocentrism in education; college readiness, access, and success; school improvement; culturally responsive and relevant professional learning; human capital management systems; and strategic planning through an equity mindset. Additionally, she leads technical assistance (TA) efforts in support of educational equity.

“Jenna’s exceptional track record of conducting research makes her an invaluable addition to our leadership team,” said ECD senior vice president Jennifer Hamilton. “She has a wealth of experience collaborating with the U.S. Department of Education, state education agencies, school districts, nonprofits, and foundations on critical education policies and programs. I look forward to working with her and witnessing the success we will achieve under her leadership.”  

In her new role, Scott will lead business development efforts to grow ECD’s federal evaluation and TA portfolio. She will also oversee client relationships and partnerships and support the growth and development of ECD staff.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jenna to NORC,” said executive vice president Krishna Kumar. “With her outstanding leadership qualities and deep understanding of ECD research, she is poised to make significant contributions to our mission of improving lives through rigorous research and innovation." 

Scott previously served as the education account lead at Abt Global. Before that, she worked at Westat where, for more than 10 years, she managed projects promoting equitable results in educational outcomes for the U.S. Department of Education.  

“I am very excited to join NORC and collaborate with my colleagues on innovative ways to center equity and evidence in capacity-building efforts and equity in evaluations to help build a brighter future for students, educators, families, and communities,” Scott said.

Scott earned her MA in sociology from Penn State University and a PhD in sociology of education from Syracuse University.