Who We Are

IHEP’s mission and vision are made possible through the hard work and valuable expertise of some of the most respected professionals in the fields of public policy and research. Collectively, its staff works together to advance higher education opportunities for all individuals.

Michelle Asha Cooper, Ph.D., President
Jennifer Engle, Ph.D., Vice President for Policy Research
Christen Cullum Hairston, Ph.D., Senior Research Analyst
Wendell Hall, Ph.D., Deputy Director
Kladé J. Hare , Senior Project Administrator
Mark Huelsman, Research Analyst
Tauren Kagwima, Administrative Assistant
Lacey H. Leegwater, Director of Planning and Special Projects
Eunkyoung Park, Ph.D., Research Analyst
Edward Smith, Research Analyst
Lisa M. Stewart, Chief Financial and Adminstrative Officer