MEF Associates
Shafiqua Little, Ph.D., currently serves as a Senior Research Associate at MEF Associates, a position held since January 2024. Prior to this role, Shafiqua was a Policy Associate at Research for Action from May 2021 to January 2024 and worked as a Data Analyst at Learn4Life, Metro Atlanta Education Partnership between January 2020 and May 2021. Shafiqua's earlier experience includes serving as a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Georgia - College of Education from May 2016 to May 2019 and as an Educator for Atlanta Public Schools from August 2012 to May 2016. Shafiqua holds a Ph.D. in K-12 education law and policy from the UGA Mary Frances Early College of Education (2014-2019), a Master of Arts in Teaching in Early Childhood Education from Mercer University (2010-2012), and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Spelman College (2004-2008).
MEF Associates
MEF Associates is a well-established social policy research firm specializing in rigorous research that influences and shapes social programs that serve millions of Americans each year. For the last decade, we have worked at all levels of government and with diverse non-profits focused on bettering policy in child and family, workforce development, income security and early childhood education. We combine diverse work experiences and expertise to deliver meaningful, data-driven solutions. Our staff come to MEF because of our ability to make a difference through research. Each one of us brings a unique perspective, diversity of approach, and uncompromising commitment to research excellence. We believe that what we do impacts the effectiveness and efficiency of public policy and programs. Through this work, we realize our mission to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals, children, and families. We strive to use inclusive research methods that promote collaboration with the programs and communities with whom we work.