Leah Bricker

Background

About Leah Bricker

I began my career as a science educator and have built 30+ years of experience leading research and programs across K–12 schools, universities, government, foundations, and nonprofits. My work has focused on strengthening education systems by connecting researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to bridge theory and practice.Currently, I oversee major grantmaking programs at Spencer Foundation. This role has given me the opportunity to manage multimillion-dollar portfolios, guide funding priorities, and build programs that support innovative education research globally. Earlier in my career, I taught middle school science, prepared future educators and researchers as a faculty member, and participated on NSF-funded projects related to science education and learning.Throughout my career, a consistent theme has been a focus on impact. I’ve worked to translate STEM and Learning Sciences research and expertise into programs that matter by supporting research-practice partnerships, designing new initiatives, and convening diverse voices to tackle system wide challenges in education. I enjoy working at the intersection of strategy, research, and practice, and I’m motivated by opportunities that expand the field’s capacity to improve learning at scale.