Rachel Barker

Rachel Barker is a Chicago-based strategist, analyst, and storyteller dedicated to fostering vibrant, innovative, and inclusive cities. Her expertise spans program strategy & delivery, research & policy analysis, and communications & stakeholder engagement, benefiting public policy-focused organizations.

With a strong track record, Rachel has been involved in diverse projects such as qualitative research, economic development strategy, inclusive recovery assessments, and workforce grantmaking initiatives. She collaborates with organizations to research interventions supporting economic mobility.

Rachel Barker previously dedicated over six years at the Brookings Metropolitan Policy Program, working closely with city leaders to inspire civic innovation. Her responsibilities included developing strategies, managing projects, and communicating the impact of the program's initiatives.