About
Mandy Savitz-Romer serves as the Nancy Pforzheimer Aronson Senior Lecturer in Human Development and Education at Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE), where she leads the school counseling strand. Her work critically examines school counseling systems and conditions for effective practice, with focused expertise in college access for students of color and first-generation college students.
Her educational foundation includes a Ph.D. from Boston College (2004), which informs her scholarship on developmental approaches to student success.
Research interests center on reimagining school counseling through college and career readiness frameworks, addressing systemic barriers for marginalized students. She pioneers intersections of counseling systems, noncognitive skill development, and technology-enhanced support structures that promote equitable outcomes across K-12 and higher education transitions.
Publications reveal consistent emphasis on data-driven counseling practices, technology integration for first-generation students, and the critical role of noncognitive skills in college success. Her work bridges research-practice partnerships to transform counseling systems through evidence-based innovation.
Recognition includes:
- ASHE 2018 Book Award for Technology and Engagement
- NACAC Excellence in Education Award (2016)
Her advisory impact spans school districts, foundations, and universities through consultation and research projects expanding access to student support programming. She actively shapes future counseling leaders through HGSE's Human Development and Education program.
As faculty lead for school counseling, she directs curriculum development and strategic initiatives advancing the profession's capacity to serve diverse student populations through institutional change.
