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
Alisa Federico Cunningham, Vice President of Research and Programs
Lorelle L. Espinosa, Ph.D., Director of Policy and Strategic Initiatives
Anne Bowles, Policy and Outreach Associate
Tia T. Gordon, Communications and Marketing Consultant, Founder+CEO, TTG+Partners
Kladé J. Hare , Programs Coordinator/Policy Intern
Noël Harmon, Ph.D., Senior Program Manager
Gregory Kienzl, Ph.D., Director of Research and Evaluation
Andrew J. Lee, Staff Accountant and Administrative Associate
Lacey H. Leegwater, Director of Programs and Planning
Shannon M. Looney, Program Manager
Katya Narozhnaya, Graduate Fellow
Brian Sponsler, Research Analyst
Lisa M. Stewart, Director of Finance and Administration
Alexis Wesaw, Research Associate