Lea Folsom

Lea is an Associate in the Workforce and Human Services Division at SPR. As a life-long learner, she is passionate about research and learning. She believes everyone has the right to pursue education and opportunities for success, no matter what stage of life they may be in.

Lea has been conducting research for nearly 14 years. Prior to joining SPR, she conducted experimental research assessing attitudes, group dynamics, and discrimination. She also brings six years of experience providing healthcare to medical and oncology patients as a certified nursing assistant (CNA), which inspired her to evaluate career pathway programs that connect individuals to sustainable careers in healthcare and beyond. She uses mixed-methods design, qualitative data collection, and survey design and analysis to support and evaluate programs aimed at empowering and supporting community college students, transitional age and opportunity youth, justice-involved individuals, and older adults.

Lea earned an M.A. in Social Psychology from the San Francisco State University and a B.S. in Psychology from Kansas State University. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, exploring Northern California, and spending time with her nieces and nephews.