Loss and Renewal

Policy Innovations

Maya Shankar's journey into public policy was marked by her innovative use of behavioral insights to address complex challenges. She joined the White House to lead a team that applied social science research to policy issues, such as redesigning school lunch program communications to improve accessibility for families 1. Her approach involved simplifying processes and using data to drive decisions, which led to significant improvements in program participation. Maya's determination to integrate behavioral science into policy was inspired by her realization that these insights could profoundly impact people's lives 2.

I want to be taking research insights from the behavioral sciences and allowing them to find their way into public policy so that they can be in the service of Americans and people around the world.

--- Maya Shankar

Her efforts demonstrate the potential of behavioral science to transform public policy and improve outcomes for communities.

   

Education Initiatives

Maya Shankar's educational initiatives focused on addressing the phenomenon of summer melt, where students fail to transition to college despite being accepted. Her team implemented a simple intervention of sending eight text messages to remind students of important deadlines, resulting in a 9% increase in college enrollment rates 3. This low-cost solution exemplifies how small, targeted actions can have a significant impact on educational outcomes. Maya's personal journey from a violinist to a policy innovator reflects her belief in the power of reinvention and the importance of pursuing one's passions 4.

Eight text messages is what I send my best friend on any given day.

--- Maya Shankar

Her work highlights the role of behavioral insights in creating effective educational programs that support students' success.