Laura Schaffer, M.A.

Laura Schaffer is a Research Analyst who partners with nonprofits, government agencies, school districts, and foundations to turn data into actionable insights. She supports clients in using information effectively to enhance programs and services that address community needs.

Laura has contributed to a wide range of initiatives, including education, public health, youth justice, housing stability, workforce development, and community engagement programs in settings such as schools, healthcare systems, and public institutions. Her experience spans efforts focused on magnet schools, healthy living campaigns, youth health care, juvenile probation, and public outreach through organizations like zoos and aquariums.

She brings a strong quantitative background in survey design, data analysis of complex systems, and both basic and advanced statistical methods. Combined with her skill in data visualization, Laura helps organizations interpret their data clearly and make informed decisions. For a juvenile justice initiative, she led the analysis of system-wide data from over 12,000 youth to evaluate program implementation and outcomes across the state.

Laura holds a master’s degree in Program Evaluation from Michigan State University and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Colorado State University.