Cradle to Career Policy Institute is pleased to announce the return of Darlene Castillo to our research center as a Research Scientist III.

Darlene earned her Master of Public Policy from the University of New Mexico in May 2025. Prior to rejoining our team, she served as a Research Associate with Levado, where she supported multiple large-scale and community-centered initiatives. Her work included managing a three-year evaluation of the Albuquerque Community Safety Department, researching housing stability efforts across New Mexico, and facilitating a developmental evaluation of Youth Development, Inc.’s Project Success: An In-Schools Case Management Initiative.

Darlene’s research interest focuses on advancing systems change through equity- and justice-centered policies that support New Mexican families in lifting themselves out of poverty. Specifically, her interests include educational attainment, language access, and promoting the well-being of children and the families who raise them. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. and continue her professional development to better serve historically marginalized communities.

We are thrilled to welcome Darlene back and look forward to the expertise, leadership, and passion she brings to our work!