Jessica Shakesprere is a research assistant in the Center on Labor, Human Services, and Population at the Urban Institute. She applies mixed-methods approaches, focusing on evidence in policy and program decisions and place-based initiatives to support low-income working families and marginalized youth. Shakesprere’s previous research and organizing experience includes trauma-informed community building, racial and ethnic disparities in economic opportunity, and behavioral insights to mobilize social change.

Shakesprere holds a BS in biology and a BA in political science from the Ohio State University, where she graduated with honors and research distinction.