Dr. Amanda Washington Lockett is a Strategist with the UNCF Institute for Capacity Building (ICB). She is responsible for the development of strategic priorities for the ICB in conjunction with UNCF and ICB leadership and operates as a lead contributor to ICB’s strategic direction, playing a key role in efforts to secure funding and establish new programs and initiatives that improve capacity and institutional outcomes at Black colleges and universities.

Prior to joining UNCF’s ICB, Amanda held various roles within the K-24 educational continuum. She has previously worked with the University of Pennsylvania’s Center for Minority Serving Institutions and has led focused efforts to ensure the sustainability and transformation of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including her role with The Global Urban Work College Network of Paul Quinn College.

Dr. Lockett earned a PhD in Higher Education at The University of Pennsylvania, as well as a master’s in Education Policy and Social Analysis from Columbia University, a master’s in Teaching from American University, and completed her undergraduate studies at Spelman College. An experienced mixed methods researcher, she has contributed to multiple academic book chapters, provided social commentary for platforms with national readership, and has co-authored data reports for the United States Department of Education. She uses her passion and voice as a tool to advocate for equity and speaks publicly to champion innovative solutions to fortify the infrastructure of American education.

She lives in Indianapolis, Indiana with her husband, three children, and a rambunctious Golden Woodle.