New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity Names Dr. Nicole Heller Director of Outcomes and Reporting

MANCHESTER, N.H. — The New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity (NHCJE) has announced the appointment of Nicole Heller, Ph.D., as its first Director of Outcomes and Reporting. Dr. Heller brings more than two decades of experience advancing opportunities for children and families through research, higher education, and public policy.

In her new role, Dr. Heller will lead the organization's efforts to measure, evaluate, and communicate the impact of NHCJE's programs and initiatives. Her expertise in research design, data analysis, and evidence-based policy will strengthen the organization's ability to demonstrate outcomes while supporting its mission to build a more just and equitable New Hampshire.

"Nicole's career has been defined by using research to improve people's lives," said Anthony Poore, President and CEO of the New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity. "Her experience spans academia, public policy, and community engagement, and she understands how meaningful data can drive better decisions and better outcomes. We welcome her to our team."

A first-generation college graduate from a working-class family, Dr. Heller began her career working with infants affected by prenatal opioid exposure while completing her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology at the University of Maine. She later spent more than a decade in higher education as a psychology professor at Colby-Sawyer College in New Hampshire and Siena College in New York, where she taught developmental psychology and research methods while mentoring students and conducting research focused on child development and family well-being.

Most recently, Dr. Heller served as a Senior Policy Analyst at the New Hampshire Fiscal Policy Institute, specializing in child and family policy. There, she conducted research and presented throughout the state on issues including early childhood education, K-12 education, higher education, and the ways public policy shapes economic opportunity for New Hampshire families.

"I've dedicated my career to understanding how systems and policies affect children and families," said Dr. Heller. "I'm excited to join NHCJE because of a commitment to turning data into action and ensuring that every person in New Hampshire has the opportunity to thrive. I look forward to helping the organization demonstrate its impact while continuing to advance equity across our state."

In addition to her professional work, Dr. Heller serves on the board of Reaching Higher New Hampshire, is an external member of the Colby-Sawyer College Institutional Review Board, and serves on the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston's Community Development Research Advisory Council.

A Manchester resident, Dr. Heller lives with her husband and their two sons. Outside of work, she enjoys yoga, gardening, caring for her growing collection of houseplants, exploring New Hampshire's craft breweries, and cheering on her children as both a soccer and band mom.

Dr. Heller joined NHCJE in early August and will play a key role in strengthening the organization's impact measurement, reporting, and continuous improvement efforts as it continues working to create a Granite State where everyone belongs.

About the New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity

The New Hampshire Center for Justice & Equity works to eliminate systemic barriers and create opportunities so that every person in New Hampshire can thrive. Through research, advocacy, leadership development, and community partnerships, NHCJE advances policies and practices that promote equity, justice, and belonging across the Granite State. www.NHCJE.org