Irma Castañeda is a Research Associate at MEF Associates. Irma is interested in equitable access to education and the upward mobility of historically underserved communities. She has experience with higher education policy analysis, mixed methods research, and translating research into actionable insights. At MEF, Irma works on projects related to the TANF program, early childhood education, and research evidence reviews.
Prior to joining MEF, Irma worked as a Policy Specialist at the Foundation for California Community Colleges where she conducted research, policy development, and administrative data analysis to support systemwide reforms in the areas of student basic needs, financial aid, and dual enrollment. In graduate school, Irma conducted mixed-methods research for the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office to evaluate college promise programs.
Irma earned a Master of Public Policy degree from the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Spanish from Wheaton College. In her spare time, Irma enjoys listening to podcasts, salsa dancing, and spending quality time with family and friends.