Elizabeth Day

Dr. Elizabeth Day is a recognized authority in the field of youth policy and child well-being, serving as a Research Assistant Professor at the College of Education at the University of Oregon. Her work is pivotal in bridging the gap between research, practice, and policy, particularly concerning child and adolescent well-being and social policies at the state level. Dr. Day's commitment to improving the lives of young people is evident in her extensive research and policy initiatives. Before joining the esteemed HEDCO team at the University of Oregon, Dr. Day made significant contributions at Cornell University. She held the position of Associate Director for Policy and Training Initiatives, where she was instrumental in shaping policy frameworks and training programs. Additionally, she served as the Director of Cornell’s Translational Research Summer Institute, a role in which she facilitated the integration of research findings into practical applications, thereby enhancing the impact of academic research on real-world issues. Dr. Day's career also includes a notable tenure as a Congressional Fellow in the United States Senate. During this time, she was actively involved in developing legislative proposals focused on education, child health, and child welfare. Her experience in the legislative arena provided her with a unique perspective on the intersection of policy and practice, further enriching her academic and research endeavors. Her academic journey began at Purdue University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Youth, Adult, and Family Services. She continued her studies at Purdue, obtaining both a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Human Development and Family Studies. Her educational background laid a strong foundation for her research interests, which center on the development and implementation of effective youth and education policies. Dr. Day's research interests are deeply rooted in understanding and enhancing child well-being through comprehensive education policies. She is particularly focused on how state-level social policies can be optimized to support the holistic development of children and adolescents. Her work often involves collaborating with policymakers, educators, and community organizations to ensure that research findings are translated into actionable strategies that benefit young people. In addition to her academic and research pursuits, Dr. Day is actively involved in various professional organizations dedicated to child welfare and education policy. Her contributions to these organizations have been recognized through numerous awards and accolades, underscoring her commitment to advancing the field of youth policy. Dr. Elizabeth Day continues to be a leading voice in the discourse on child well-being and education policy. Her dedication to fostering environments where young people can thrive is reflected in her ongoing research and advocacy efforts. Through her work, she aims to create a more equitable and supportive society for future generations.