Avila is a mixed-methods researcher who supports the development of new projects across MDRC's policy areas and conducts research that strives to enhance authentic engagement with program partners through the lifecycle of an evaluation. Avila is the project director for the Real World Learning (RWL) evaluation, an initiative in the Kansas City metropolitan area funded by the Kauffman Foundation, which seeks to understand how real world learning is affecting high schools and students in the region and to confirm that students exit secondary schooling prepared for success in ongoing education and careers. Avila actively contributes to MDRC's Equity & Culturally Responsive Collaborative, an internal hub that cuts across policy areas to support project teams in elevating and integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion perspectives in the organization’s research. A proud son of farm workers in California's Central Valley, Osvaldo's personal background has greatly influenced his research interests and approach to his work with MDRC. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Chicana/o studies from California State University, Long Beach, and a master’s degree in sociology and education from Teachers College, Columbia University.
