My name is Anupama Shekar and I am the CEO & Founder of Shekar Consulting LLC – an evaluation & research consulting firm in the United States dedicated to providing impactful services to underrepresented and underserved communities. With over 15 years of experience in the field, I am a seasoned mixed-methods researcher, program evaluator, and NVivo trainer. My work in educational research and evaluation is deeply influenced by my personal experiences as an immigrant.

My journey began in India, where I worked as a print journalist focusing on public education leadership and policy. Through my writing, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of education on children from low-income communities. This experience fueled my passion to study education leadership and policy formally, with the aim of improving the lives of marginalized individuals.

I hold a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which further deepened my knowledge and expertise in the field. This academic achievement, combined with my practical experience as a journalist, enables me to approach evaluation and research from different angles, making me an effective advocate for organizations and communities seeking positive change.

Throughout my career, I have employed qualitative and mixed-methods research and evaluation approaches to explore various aspects of education, such as school and educational leadership, community-based initiatives, parent and family involvement, bilingual and multilingual education, and professional development programs. I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves equal access to quality education and opportunities for growth. My goal is to use rigorous evaluation methodologies to bring about positive change and create more inclusive and equitable environments in the communities I serve.

I recognize the importance of understanding the unique challenges faced by underrepresented and underserved communities. By actively involving stakeholders and promoting collaboration, I strive to ensure that evaluations are not only thorough and data-driven but also culturally responsive and relevant. It is my firm belief that evaluation should be a collaborative and inclusive process that amplifies the voices of those who are often marginalized.

At Shekar Consulting LLC, we are committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities facing barriers to success. Our evaluation and research consulting services are designed to empower nonprofits, foundations, universities, school systems, government agencies, and businesses. By partnering with us, organizations can drive impact, promote inclusivity, and achieve evidence-based outcomes.

I am proud of the diverse range of projects we have undertaken, each with the aim of creating positive change and addressing the needs of underrepresented and underserved communities. Our evaluations encompass formative, process, and outcome assessments, providing organizations with valuable insights and actionable recommendations. Through our work, we strive to create lasting impact and promote equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances.