March 9, 2022

Child Trends is pleased to announce that Dr. Wing Yi “Winnie” Chan will direct the organization’s education research program area. Dr. Chan will oversee research that aims to identify and support the educational policies, programs, and structures that create positive learning conditions for all youth. Through her work, Dr. Chan seeks to challenge the barriers that have impacted Black, Latino, Indigenous, refugee, immigrant, and low-income students in their pursuit of a high-quality public education. 

“I am excited that Dr. Chan is bringing her talents and accomplishments to Child Trends. She will deepen our capacity to promote a better and more equitable post-pandemic society for children, youth, and families,” said Child Trends President Carol Emig. “Her multifaceted experiences and perspectives are sure to inform our work and strengthen our organization.”  

Dr. Chan comes to Child Trends from The Education Trust, where she served as the director of P-12 research. During her time with The Education Trust, Dr. Chan aided in developing and implementing a research agenda that promotes racial equity in the areas of school accountability, educator diversity, student development, post-high school readiness, school funding, and early learning. She has also conducted community-centered research for the RAND Corporation as a behavioral/social scientist and for Georgia State University as an associate professor. 

Dr. Chan brings a strong commitment to equitable education and social justice to her role, along with a focus on empowering students who have historically been excluded from accessing educational opportunities and significant expertise in the intersections of race, income, education, and well-being among students. She has also studied the impacts of school- and community-based programs and initiatives on low-income students and students of color. 

“We are thrilled that Winnie is joining Child Trends,” added Deborah Temkin, Child Trends’ deputy chief operating officer and vice president for education and youth development. “Her experience in and passion for educational equity and embedding student voice into research undoubtedly supports Child Trends’ mission of conducting applied research that promotes the well-being of children and youth.”