By Felicia Sanders

My career has been shaped by a longstanding interest in how research and policy can be used to improve outcomes for students, educators, and communities. That interest eventually led me to earn a PhD in Education Policy and build a career focused on education research, stakeholder engagement, and federal program oversight. 

Before joining Avid Core, I spent many years at the U.S. Department of Education working on large-scale education research and technical assistance initiatives. My work involved overseeing complex contracts and supporting projects designed to help education leaders make informed, evidence-based decisions. I had the opportunity to collaborate with researchers, contractors, federal leadership, and stakeholders across the country, which gave me a deep appreciation for the importance of communication, partnership, and strategic thinking in public service work. 

One thing I especially enjoyed about my previous role was being able to sit at the intersection of research, operations, and relationship-building. Some days involved reviewing technical deliverables or facilitating discussions with stakeholders, while others focused on coordinating meetings, supporting long-term planning efforts, or helping teams navigate challenges. I liked being part of work that required both analytical thinking and collaboration — and where strong communication was just as important as technical expertise. 

Transitioning from the Department of Education into consulting has been an exciting shift. Moving from government into a consulting role gave me a new perspective on how organizations support federal clients and mission-driven work. My government experience still shapes the way I approach projects today. Having worked inside a federal agency, I understand how important it is to provide responsive, high-quality support while balancing competing priorities and navigating complex environments. 

At Avid Core, I’ve had the opportunity to apply my experience in new ways. I’ve supported FOIA and compliance-related work that requires careful attention to detail, organization, and sound judgment. I’ve also enjoyed contributing to business development efforts related to education research and federal education initiatives. Because of my background, I’m able to bring insight into the education landscape, stakeholder needs, and the unique challenges that federal education clients are trying to solve. 

One of the things that attracted me to Avid Core was the opportunity to work alongside people with such diverse professional experiences and skill sets. I appreciate being part of a team that values collaboration, adaptability, and creative problem-solving. It’s been rewarding to see how different backgrounds and perspectives come together to support clients in meaningful ways. 

I’m also excited about the possibility of helping to expand Avid Core’s work in the education space. Education has been a central part of my professional life for many years, and I enjoy finding ways to connect research, strategy, communication, and stakeholder engagement to support organizations working toward positive outcomes. 

Looking back, my path from education policy and federal service into consulting may not have been something I originally planned, but it’s been an incredibly valuable experience. I’m grateful to bring my background and perspective to the Avid Core team, and I’m looking forward to continuing work that helps organizations communicate clearly, build strong partnerships, and make informed decisions that have lasting impact.