Laura McElherne (she/her) is a Research and Evaluation Scientist at the Institute for Community Health. She is experienced with participatory, strength-based, and trauma-informed approaches to mixed-methods research and evaluation. Prior to joining ICH, Laura worked as an internal evaluator at Safe Horizon, a victim services organization based in New York City. At ICH, she leads an evaluation and assessment portfolio of work related to substance use, mental health, criminal-legal system involvement, and trauma, and helps to lead the organization’s internal Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Committee and Visibility Committee.

Laura studied Art History and English at New York University and received an MSW from the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College with a focus on Community Organizing, Planning, and Development. She now lives in Wakefield, MA, with her husband and two kids.