People

Jonathan Collins, Ph.D

Program Director
Policy Scholar

Jonathan E. Collins, Ph.D. is an assistant professor of political science and education at Teachers College, Columbia University and an assistant professor of political science (by courtesy) at Columbia University. His research focuses on race and ethnic politics, urban politics, state and local politics, education politics and policy, and democratic innovations. As a researcher, Collins has been at the forefront of the study of public participation at school board meetings. He received his M.A and Ph.D in Political Science from University of California Los Angeles and his B.A from Morehouse College.

Shawn Filer

Product Strategy
Expert

Shawn Filer is systems engineer with a passion for leveraging data to enhance decision-making. Filer has consulted across 3 continents for non-profits, philanthropies, Fortune 500 companies, and government agencies, leading to the design and development of four AI driven applications. His contribution to public schools focuses on helping leaders optimize budgets, improve operational efficiency, and integrate community voice into policy decisions. He holds a M.A in Policy and Leadership and a B.S in Systems Engineering from Stanford University.

Samuel Austin Evans

Community Engagement Expert

Samuel Austin Evans is an education strategist and technology innovator committed to advancing equitable policy and school safety. As an Adidas National Black Excellence Honoree, he leads the L.E.A.D. Community Curriculum, an initiative dedicated to empowering inner-city youth through education and mentorship. Evans has consulted for public school districts and large universities, providing expertise in data-driven policy creation,  institutional safety strategies while leading community initiatives. He holds a M.S in Higher Education and a B.A in Marketing Analytics from Texas A&M University.

Kiyara Leis, Ph.D

Research and Reporting Expert

Kiki Leis, Ph.D is a Senior Research Assistant at the Center for Educational Equity at the Columbia Teachers College. Driven by a passion for equity in education and its impact on families and social structures. She has previously worked as a research coordinator and project manager at Brown University for Center for Creative Leadership. She has also been part of research projects at the University of North Carolina Greensboro (UNCG), the University of Virginia and the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Kiki holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Human Development and Family Studies from UNCG and a B.A. from Hampshire College.

Kristopher Diallo

Software Development
Expert

Kris Diallo is a computer science professional specializing in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics, and cybersecurity. In various roles at Amazon and Salesforce he has advocated for the ethical application of cutting edge technologies. An expert in agile development, Kris can develop and launch products in the matter of hours to meet client needs. Outside of his professional work, he is passionate about computer science education, contributing to projects at the intersection of technology and public policy and mentoring computer science students. Diallo earned a B.S in Computer Science from Brown University.

Sikirat Mustapha

Community Outreach
Assistant

Sikirat Mustapha is a senior at Columbia College studying Statistics-Political Science and Business. As a passionate advocate for equity and access, Sikirat Mustapha uses her multifaceted interests in educational policy, technology and business to elicit change in her community. Born and raised in NYC but receiving multidisciplinary studies in South Africa and Mexico, these experiences drive her commitment to democratizing knowledge and began her founding of Sikirat Tutors, where she provides tangible solutions and aid to under-resourced communities, closing learning gaps all while highlighting the importance of youth voice and communal service.