Ava Roots

Ava Roots currently serves as a Research Fellow at the Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation, collaborating with Dr. Matt Sobek. Additionally, Ava is the Assistant Speech and Debate Coach at Two Rivers High School, where skills in research and argumentation are emphasized to enhance student public speaking capabilities. Previous experience includes an internship with the Minnesota Senate under Sen. Bobby Joe Champion, assisting constituents in North Minneapolis, and a role as a DFRACS Research Assistant at the University of Minnesota, focused on analyzing campaign spending disclosures. Ava has also demonstrated leadership at Stillwater Changemakers, organizing a community giving garden, and represented youth interests as a representative on the Minnesota Youth Council, advocating for educational equity. As a student leader for the Minnesota Department of Transportation's Safe Routes to School initiative, Ava facilitated youth engagement in transportation policy. Currently enrolled at the University of Minnesota, Ava is pursuing academic enrichment from 2023 to 2027.