As a policy professional, I conduct research and write reports on issues related to early childhood, such as child care and early education and the social determinants of health. I aim to promote child wellbeing and developmental outcomes, and to advance social, economic, and educational equity. I have a PhD in Human Development from the University of Maryland College Park, where I studied social cognitive development and the effects of children’s social reasoning on their learning, with implications for their later academic and social-emotional skills. I was also a postdoctoral research fellow at Temple University's Infant and Child Lab, where I investigated the role of playful learning in children's cognition and interactions with their caregivers. I have multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals and presentations at national and international conferences. I have also taught introductory psychology courses at Loyola University Maryland, where I developed engaging lectures and assessments for diverse students. I have strong analytical, writing, and communication skills, as well as a passion for improving the lives of children and families. I enjoy collaborating with other researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, and I seek to contribute to evidence-based and innovative solutions for the challenges facing the early childhood field.