I am a Principal Research Associate in the Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center at the Urban Institute, where I focus on advancing equitable urban economics, housing, and transportation policies through applied econometrics, qualitative analysis, and community-engaged methods. My work seeks to address complex social challenges and support evidence-based policymaking.
My research portfolio includes:
- A national study on land use reforms and their impact on housing affordability.
- A randomized controlled trial of an unconditional and conditional cash transfer program aimed at reducing youth exposure to violence.
- Evaluations of the Economic Development Administration, the New Markets Tax Credit, and the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit.
- Analyses of transportation equity, spatial mismatch, and homeownership support policies.
I am particularly interested in how policies like rent control and inclusionary zoning influence the supply of affordable housing and affect access to opportunities, particularly for communities of color. My research also highlights the broader economic benefits of promoting racial equity in income, housing, and education.
In the transportation space, I explore how autonomous vehicle regulations and transit modifications can be structured to promote equity.
In addition to my research, I serve as Vice Chair of the board for Housing Alexandria and as an advisory board member for the University of Pittsburgh’s Master of Quantitative Economics program. Prior to my role at the Urban Institute, I earned my bachelor’s degree from Boston College, a master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs, and a PhD in Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics from Michigan State University.More...