Stephani L. Wrabel

Stephani L. Wrabel is a Senior Policy Researcher at the RAND Corporation and Professor of Policy Analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy. She conducts influential research on education policy, social and emotional learning, and defense-funded youth programs, with her work shaping both federal and state policies.

• Institution: RAND Corporation
• School: RAND School of Public Policy
• Position: Professor of Policy Analysis
• Email: Stephani_Wrabel@rand.org

Education:

• Ph.D. in Urban Education Policy, University of Southern California
• M.Ed., University of Florida
• B.A., Boston University

Her research focuses on improving educational outcomes for students and military-connected populations through rigorous evaluation and policy analysis. She specializes in standards-based accountability, educational equity, program evaluation, and social and emotional learning. Her work often centers on vulnerable youth, including those in the National Guard Youth ChalleNGe and JROTC programs, and she has led major federal evaluations, including for the U.S. Department of Education’s Center to Improve SEL and School Safety.

Analysis of her recent publications shows a consistent focus on youth development, military-civilian integration, educational equity, and evidence-based policy. Her research spans program evaluation, technical assistance frameworks, and longitudinal impact studies, with a strong emphasis on practical, policy-relevant findings. She frequently publishes both comprehensive reports and executive summaries to reach diverse stakeholders.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards listed in the provided text.

Wrabel leads major research initiatives and serves as principal investigator on defense-funded education studies. Her work involves collaboration with federal agencies, education departments, and military organizations. She has developed practical tools for program evaluation, particularly for Marine and Family Division programs, supporting effective resource use and program improvement. Her leadership in large-scale evaluations demonstrates significant grant and project management experience.

She is actively involved in research teams focused on education reform and military youth programs. Her work with the Center to Improve Social and Emotional Learning and School Safety involved a multi-year technical assistance network, indicating leadership in collaborative, interdisciplinary teams.