Hillary is a seasoned education policy strategist with over a decade of experience shaping PK-12 systems at the federal and state levels. Her work centers on advancing equity and system-level change through strategy, advocacy, and research. As Deputy Chief of Staff at the Tennessee Department of Education, she co-authored the state’s ESSA plan and led major initiatives in early literacy, instructional materials, and school improvement. Previously, she served on the U.S. Senate HELP Committee, supporting the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Today, Hillary advises a range of clients—including national nonprofits, foundations, private equity firms, and edtech companies—helping them navigate education policy and identify opportunities across government levels. She holds a bachelor’s in Political Science and Child Development from Vanderbilt University and a master’s in Education Policy and Organizational Leadership from Stanford. Based in Oakland, California, Hillary enjoys experimenting in the kitchen, discovering local food spots, and the search for perfect cold brew.