Since joining MDRC in 2014, Beal has worked on several education-related projects, with a focus on support programs for community college students. She conducts implementation research, leads outreach to state government partners, conducts policy scans and literature reviews, and provides overall project management support. In her external affairs role, she develops strategies for disseminating MDRC’s work to policymakers, practitioners, Congress, membership associations, and advocacy organizations. Prior to joining MDRC, Beal served in policy and research positions at Single Stop, a nonprofit organization that helps families access public benefit programs and services. Beal holds an MPA in public and nonprofit management and policy from New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.