Urban Institute Executive and Leadership Team

Sarah Wartell, the President and Trustee at Urban Institute, provides visionary leadership and strategic direction for the organization's comprehensive research and policy agenda. Wartell guides the institute's mission to advance equity and opportunity through rigorous data analysis and evidence-based insights. This executive role involves fostering a culture of intellectual independence and collaboration, ensuring the highest standards of research integrity. Wartell engages with policymakers, community leaders, and philanthropic partners to advance the institute's impact and relevance in addressing pressing societal challenges. The President oversees all aspects of the organization's operations, financial health, and programmatic development, driving innovation and growth. Through strategic oversight and dedicated advocacy, Sarah Wartell strengthens Urban Institute's position as a leading voice in policy research and a catalyst for positive social change.

Laura Cortés, the Chief of Staff at Urban Institute, directs strategic initiatives and operational alignment across the organization. Cortés ensures the effective execution of the President's agenda, facilitating cross-departmental collaboration to advance the institute's research and policy objectives. This role involves managing key projects, optimizing internal processes, and supporting the leadership team in achieving programmatic goals. Cortés drives the implementation of organizational strategies, translating high-level directives into actionable plans. The Chief of Staff oversees the coordination of critical communications and stakeholder engagement efforts, ensuring consistent messaging and support for the institute's mission. By streamlining operations and enhancing internal communication flows, Laura Cortés strengthens the institute's capacity to deliver impactful, evidence-based insights on pressing social and economic issues.

Kara Davis, the Senior Director, Office of the Chief Information Officer at Urban Institute, spearheads critical technology strategy and information governance. Davis oversees the implementation of advanced IT infrastructure and digital solutions that support the institute's extensive research operations. This leadership position involves managing data security protocols, enhancing system performance, and ensuring the integrity of research data across all platforms. Davis drives innovation in technology adoption, enabling researchers to access and analyze complex datasets efficiently. The Senior Director collaborates closely with the Chief Information Officer to align technology investments with the institute's overarching mission of providing evidence-based policy insights. By optimizing technological resources and fostering a secure digital environment, Kara Davis ensures the institute maintains its capacity for rigorous, data-driven analysis and impactful policy recommendations.

Helen Behnke-Hanson, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Research & Programs at Urban Institute, enhances the efficiency and impact of the institute's research endeavors. Behnke-Hanson supports the Chief of Staff in overseeing programmatic operations, ensuring that research projects align with strategic priorities and adhere to the highest standards of empirical rigor. This role involves coordinating project timelines, managing resource allocation for research teams, and facilitating communication between program leaders and the executive office. Behnke-Hanson drives process improvements within research departments, aiming to accelerate the delivery of timely and relevant policy insights. The Deputy Chief of Staff also plays a key part in fostering a collaborative research environment, encouraging interdisciplinary approaches to complex societal challenges. Through meticulous operational oversight, Helen Behnke-Hanson strengthens the institute's ability to produce influential research that informs public policy.

Justine Palacios, the Deputy Chief of Staff & Operations Counsel at Urban Institute, provides critical legal and operational guidance to support the institute's mission. Palacios oversees the legal aspects of organizational operations, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations and ethical standards. This position involves advising on contracts, risk management, and policy development to safeguard the institute's integrity and operational effectiveness. Palacios works closely with the Chief of Staff and other senior leaders to streamline operational processes and mitigate potential legal challenges. The Deputy Chief of Staff & Operations Counsel also contributes to strategic planning by identifying potential operational risks and opportunities. By integrating legal expertise with operational oversight, Justine Palacios ensures the institute can conduct its vital research and policy analysis with robust legal and administrative support.

Yasmin Kazzaz, the Chief Operations Officer at Urban Institute, directs the comprehensive operational framework that supports the organization's extensive research and policy initiatives. Kazzaz oversees critical functions including finance, human resources, IT, and facilities management, ensuring seamless integration and maximum efficiency across all departments. This leadership role is pivotal in translating the institute's strategic vision into operational realities, optimizing resource allocation and driving productivity. Kazzaz champions initiatives that enhance organizational effectiveness and sustainability, ensuring the institute can consistently deliver high-quality, evidence-based insights. The Chief Operations Officer collaborates with other senior leaders to implement robust operational policies and procedures that uphold the institute's commitment to rigor and impact. Through strategic operational leadership, Yasmin Kazzaz strengthens the foundation upon which Urban Institute conducts its vital work.

Shrita Hernandez, the Chief Communications Officer & Vice President, Communications at Urban Institute, leads the strategic development and execution of all external and internal communication efforts. Hernandez shapes the institute's public narrative, ensuring its research and policy recommendations reach key audiences effectively. This role involves overseeing media relations, digital strategy, publications, and brand management to amplify the institute's impact. Hernandez collaborates with research teams and leadership to translate complex findings into accessible and compelling messages for policymakers, the public, and stakeholders. The Chief Communications Officer drives initiatives that enhance the institute's visibility and influence, fostering a deeper understanding of critical social and economic issues. By directing comprehensive communication strategies, Shrita Hernandez strengthens the institute's role as a trusted source of evidence-based insights.

Yasmin Coronado, the Vice President, Human Resources & Chief Administrative Officer at Urban Institute, directs comprehensive human capital strategies and administrative functions to support the organization's mission. Coronado oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits, ensuring a robust and supportive work environment for all staff. This leadership position is critical in aligning HR policies with the institute's strategic objectives and fostering a diverse and inclusive culture. Coronado also manages key administrative services, optimizing operational efficiency and resource utilization across departments. The Vice President collaborates closely with senior leadership to implement programs that enhance employee engagement and organizational effectiveness. By championing people-centric initiatives and sound administrative practices, Yasmin Coronado strengthens the institute's capacity to attract and retain top talent for its vital research endeavors.

Ragan Tysvaer, the Director, Center Operations at Urban Institute, manages the day-to-day operational activities for specific research centers, ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals. Tysvaer oversees resource management, project support, and administrative functions within assigned centers, facilitating the smooth execution of research projects. This role involves coordinating with center directors and research teams to address operational needs and implement best practices. Tysvaer plays a crucial part in optimizing workflows and enhancing the efficiency of research operations, contributing directly to the timely delivery of policy-relevant analysis. The Director ensures that center operations adhere to the institute's standards for quality, integrity, and fiscal responsibility. By providing dedicated operational support, Ragan Tysvaer empowers research centers to focus on generating impactful insights and advancing the institute's mission.