View Ask5: Education, Equity, and Impact: A Career Journey in Policy and Advocacy with Nan Mead, ’22
In this Ask5 segment, Nan Mead, ’22, shares her inspiring career journey in education policy and advocacy. As Director of Outreach and Communications at the Center for Educational Equity, she discusses her work advancing equity through public policy, community engagement, and inclusive education reform. Drawing from her experience as a New York State Regent, Ms. Mead highlights the importance of elevating student and parent voices and shaping impactful policy. Her insights offer powerful lessons for those passionate about education, advocacy, and driving meaningful change.
Bio: Nan Eileen Mead, M.A., M.Ed., is the Director of Outreach and Communications at the Center for Educational Equity at Teachers College, Columbia University. Ms. Mead is a longtime education advocate and most recently served for six years representing the 1st Judicial District, which includes Manhattan, on the New York State Board of Regents. During her tenure, Ms. Mead co-chaired the Regents Subcommittee on State Aid, where she was deeply involved in developing the annual education budget proposal. She elevated parent and student voices, particularly during the pandemic, and contributed to the development of the Regents’ framework and policy statement on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Before her election to the Regents, Ms. Mead was a financial sector professional and parent leader serving on several local policy and advocacy boards, including Community Education Council 3 and the Chancellor’s Parent Advisory Council of New York City. She holds degrees in politics, public policy, and education.
