IHEP promotes three higher education experts, strengthening the organization’s efforts to improve college access and success

Julie Ajinkya, PhD, formerly director of applied research, has been named Vice President of Applied Research and will continue her leadership in IHEP's work to link business and community leaders to institutional efforts that advance college success and workforce readiness for underserved students. Ajinkya is an expert in matters of higher education equity and social justice with special interest in reforming prison education and increasing access and success for undocumented and immigrant students.

Lacey Leegwater, formerly director of planning and special projects, will now be IHEP's Senior Advisor, working to advance key organizational priorities and strengthen external partnerships. Leegwater has served IHEP for more than 10 years, supporting numerous efforts to strengthen college pathways and institutional policies for underserved students, particularly those at minority serving institutions and community colleges. Leegwater also has been integral to the organization's strategic planning and development efforts. 

Mamie Voight, formerly director of policy research, has been appointed Vice President of Policy Research and will continue her leadership in IHEP's work related to college affordability and efforts to improve the quality and use of postsecondary data, for the purposes of student information, policymaking, and institutional improvement.  Voight is also leading efforts to strengthen IHEP's influence and advocacy.