Meghan McShan

I'm a Program Director and Researcher at the Center for Education Equity at Chicago State University, where I focus on improving college access, persistence, and completion, particularly for underrepresented students in Illinois. My work combines research, data analysis, and community engagement to translate complex data into actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and community partners.

Before transitioning to higher education policy, I spent more than a decade working in real estate and consulting as an economic researcher, analyzing market trends and complex datasets to inform strategic location decisions. My interdisciplinary background reflects my interest in the connections between education, economic opportunity, and community development—and how these systems shape pathways to economic mobility.

I have enjoyed networking with different women in this organization. Even though I no longer work in this industry, I still enjoy attending events and staying abreast of what is happening.