Our People

 In 2019, I founded ImpactSTATS Inc. with two primary goals: to empower communities of color by giving them agency and ownership in research, and to enrich the scientific landscape by incorporating diverse perspectives, cultures, and knowledge. I believe that the pursuit of truth is a collective endeavor, best achieved through collaborative problem-solving. This means that data collection and interpretation should be community-driven, integrating the wisdom and lived experiences of those most closely connected to the issues. I hold a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Quantitative Methods from the University at Buffalo, a master’s degree in Executive Leadership and Change, and a bachelor’s degree in Communications. 

 I am thrilled to contribute to ImpactSTATS projects. I have spent my career in higher education, graduating with a PhD from the University of Michigan and (I hope) continued my learning as a postdoctoral scholar, research scientist, tenured faculty at the University at Buffalo, and co-founder of a community-invested research community. I specialize in mixed methods research design, scholarly writing, and systems-informed perspectives about how people learn and develop. It is a privilege to be part of an equity-driven movement to support strengths-based approaches and co-created research that is useful, actionable, and accessible.

Hands On, Hands On: How Executive Function, Motor, and Spatial Skills Foster School Readiness 

Teachers College Press
Publication date: April 20, 2018

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Shekinah Collins is a dedicated Data Science Research Assistant at ImpactStats, where she applies her strong background in computer science and data analysis to support the organization’s mission of advancing equity through data-driven insights. Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Computer Science at Prairie View A&M University, Shekinah has cultivated a robust skill set in programming languages such as Java, HTML, and C++, as well as tools like Excel and Google Suite.

Her professional experience spans technical support at Apple, where she honed her problem-solving and teamwork skills, and creative collaboration in fashion consulting and marketing. Shekinah’s unique ability to merge technical expertise with creativity makes her a valuable asset to the ImpactStats team.

When she’s not exploring innovative data solutions, Shekinah is actively engaged in leadership and learning through her involvement with the National Society of Black Engineers.

 Krissy Monet is an Educational Research Intern at ImpactSTATS Inc., where she contributes to advancing equitable solutions in education through data-driven research. Currently studying pre-med at Howard University, Krissy aspires to become a pediatric dentist, combining her passion for community health with her dedication to serving children. Her unique perspective and commitment to equity drive her impactful work at the intersection of education and health. 

Gizella Wade is a Research Fellow at ImpactStats, where she brings her expertise in statistical analysis and data-driven insights to projects aimed at addressing systemic inequities in education and beyond. She holds a Master of Applied Statistics from the University of California, Los Angeles (expected September 2024), and dual Bachelor of Arts degrees in Mathematics and Applied Statistics from the University of Virginia.

Gizella’s work at ImpactStats has included analyzing large datasets and developing predictive models to inform equitable policies. She co-authored impactful reports such as "Opportunities Denied: High Achieving Black and Latino Students Lack Access to Advanced Math" and "Facing a Broken System: Addressing Preschool Suspension and Expulsions of Black Children in South Carolina".

With advanced skills in programming languages like Python, R, and C++, Gizella specializes in regression analysis, machine learning, and predictive modeling. Her ability to translate complex data into actionable insights makes her an invaluable member of the ImpactStats team.

In addition to her role at ImpactStats, Gizella has experience in statistical consulting and financial modeling, having worked with organizations such as Just Equations, Cambridge Associates, and Morgan Stanley.