Dr. Michelle Lucas

Senior Data AnalystLearning & Impact


Portait photo of Dr. Michelle Lucas, Senior Data Analyst

Dr. Michelle Lucas is an experienced academic researcher with expertise in longitudinal modeling who will help Holdsworth measure the long-term impacts of its programming.

As an evaluation analyst with Austin ISD, Michelle assisted with program evaluations for the Multilingual Education Department, Prekindergarten Partnership with United Way for Greater Austin, and Creative Learning Initiative.

Michelle devoted her dissertation to developing and validating a new measure of self-esteem for individuals across the lifespan as well as exploring qualitative reasons for children’s and adults’ self-esteem.

Michelle began her research career in her home state at the University of Arizona, where she earned a bachelor’s in psychology and religious studies. She went on to complete her doctorate in human development and quantitative psychology from the University of California, Davis.

Michelle’s passions outside of work include faith and spirituality, staying active and being outside, and connecting with friends and family. She lives in southeast Austin with her husband, David, their young daughter, Francesca (“Frankie”), and their Great Pyrenees polar bear dog, Daisy.