Eric Waldo

Eric Waldo has a extensive and diverse work experience in the field of education and public service. Eric has held leadership positions in various organizations and has worked closely with high-profile figures such as Michelle Obama and the U.S. Surgeon General.

Their most recent position was as the President & CEO of the DC College Access Program, where they oversaw the largest college scholarship foundation in DC. Eric managed a team of 32 employees and had a budget of $15 million per year.

Prior to that, Waldo served as the Chief Engagement Officer for the U.S. Surgeon General at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Eric advised and designed campaigns on topics such as COVID-19 vaccines, mental health, and science. Eric also managed a team of eight people.

Waldo also played a key role in leading Michelle Obama's Reach Higher Initiative at both Civic Nation and The White House. Eric helped build a college-going and success movement and managed grants and partnerships. Eric also led national engagement, communications, and branding strategies for Reach Higher.

Before their involvement with Reach Higher, Waldo worked in various roles at the U.S. Department of Education, including Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy and Programs. Eric also served as an Attorney for the Obama-Biden Presidential Transition Project and worked as a Law Clerk at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio.

In addition, Waldo has served as a Board Member for the Military Child Education Coalition and has been involved in various nonprofit activities related to education and access to higher education.

Eric Waldo received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Comparative Literature from Brown University in 2000. Eric then attended the Harvard Graduate School of Education from 2002 to 2003, where they obtained a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree in International Education Policy. Afterward, they pursued further education at the University of Chicago Law School, completing their Doctor of Law (J.D.) degree between 2003 and 2006.