Makala Skinner is a researcher at Ithaka S+R on the Libraries, Scholarly Communication, and Museums team. She uses a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to explore subject matter and synthesize data into meaningful and actionable findings for educational and cultural organizations. Prior to joining Ithaka S+R, Makala carried out research on international higher education and refugee issues and worked with first-generation college students in the US. Makala earned her bachelor’s degree in English from the George Washington University and her master’s degree in international educational development from Teachers College Columbia University.