Jinann Bitar
Director of Higher Education Research and Data Analytics
Jinann leads an ambitious, innovative effort directed at advancing the opportunity and equity agenda at colleges and universities. She manages and carries out the organization’s higher education research and analytical work, supports the policy work through data modeling and thought partnership and works with teams of researchers, analysts, collaborators, and consultants to create original research tools and products.
Prior to joining The Education Trust, Jinann worked in higher education research and policy at the Bipartisan Policy Center and the American Council on Education, equipping higher education leaders and policymakers with the information they need to make data-driven decisions. Before moving to Washington DC, Bitar worked and studied at several public universities, including the University of Montana, UC Davis, and UCLA.
Jinann holds a master’s degree in public administration and a bachelor’s degree in communication studies from the University of Montana. On her quest to PhD, she obtained her master’s degree in education and is currently a doctoral candidate in Higher Education and Organizational Change at the University of California, Los Angeles.
Weakness
Bubble tea
What are people most surprised to learn about you?
I keep 100 hangers in my closet. If I have more clothes than hangers, then something has to go!
Why are you passionate about working at Ed Trust?
I see too many brilliant students who don’t have the support they need to actualize their talents and thrive. I know education, particularly a bachelor’s degree, can be an economic engine for change and I want to be a part of that conversation – our students are waiting.
