Medina is a research associate in MDRC’s K–12 Education policy area with expertise in qualitative research methods and bilingual (Spanish) research. Her work focuses on understanding program design, implementation, and participant experiences across diverse educational contexts. She currently serves as project director for a research partnership with Colaborativo Puerto Rico, a college access and persistence program serving students in Loíza, Puerto Rico, where she conducts research in both Spanish and English. In this role, she contributes to implementation research and leads the development of a logic model and performance measurement framework to support program learning and continuous improvement.
Medina has also supported research on the Delaware Career and Technical Education Pathways Environmental Literacy Initiative, Rural Dual Enrollment Expansion in 3 States, Barr Strengthening School Leadership Initiative, and Wallace Arts Landscaping. In this work, she partners with schools, districts, and community-based organizations. Across her portfolio, she translates qualitative insights into actionable guidance for education partners and elevates participant perspectives to strengthen programs and ensure that they are responsive, equitable, and effective.
As the daughter of immigrants from the Dominican Republic, Medina’s personal and professional experiences inform her commitment to research that expands educational opportunity. She holds an MA in Urban Education Policy from Brown University and a BA in Education and Community Health from Tufts University.
