Jodi Vadinsky

Background

About Jodi Vadinsky

I’m a Master of Social Work student at Columbia University, specializing in Public Policy, driven by a commitment to translating on-the-ground experience into systemic, sustainable change. My path into policy work is grounded in real-world service: supporting students in Title I public schools and women in substance use recovery, where I saw firsthand how structural inequities shape individual lives. Currently, I work as a school social work intern in a Manhattan high school, supporting over 500 students on issues ranging from interpersonal conflict to academic success and emotional well-being. I also serve as a Residential Associate at The Center for Great Expectations, supporting pregnant and parenting women in recovery and using trauma-informed interventions like ARC and the Nurtured Heart Approach. Before entering the field of social work, I worked at the intersection of research, digital content strategy, and economics at Goldman Sachs. I also hold a Master’s in Early Modern History from the University of Cambridge and dual bachelor’s degrees in History and Economics from the University of Alabama. Now, I’m focused on leveraging both direct service and analytical skills to influence policies that promote equity, access, and justice—especially in youth development, behavioral health, and economic justice. Let’s connect if you’re working at the intersection of community and policy—I’d love to collaborate, learn, or support your work.