Sherri Castle

About Sherri Castle

I\'m a systems thinker, strategist, and equity-driven leader who brings the tools of research to the real world. For over a decade, I’ve helped programs, state agencies, and national initiatives design smarter strategies, use data meaningfully, and improve systems that directly impact people’s lives—especially in early childhood, education, and mental health.My work lives at the intersection of insight and action. I’ve led cross-sector teams, facilitated community-driven change processes, supported states in building equitable compensation strategies, and partnered with nonprofits to translate feedback, data, and lived experience into clear next steps. I\'m especially known for my ability to zoom out for strategy and systems alignment—and zoom in to support implementation, communication, and learning.I care deeply about how we work: building high-trust teams, mentoring emerging leaders, and ensuring that communities aren’t just \"served\"—they’re centered. I bring personal lived experience to this work, alongside deep professional expertise.I\'m most energized when the problem is thorny, the goal is urgent, and the path isn’t fully clear yet. That’s where my creativity, clarity, and compassion shine.Photo credit: Damon\'s Droneography

Experience

1. Senior Research Scientist

   Child Trends

   Sep 2023 — Present

Education

• Arizona State University

  PhD Coursework and Comprehensive Exam

• Oklahoma State University

  Bachelor of Science (BS)

• Oklahoma State University

  Master of Science (MS)

• University of Oklahoma

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD