Jessica Cardichon joined the Alliance in March 2012 as director of federal advocacy. Prior to joining the Alliance, Dr. Cardichon served as education counsel to U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders (VT), focusing on early care and education, and K–12 and higher education issues. Dr. Cardichon began her career in education by teaching upper elementary school students for seven years in New York City. After teaching, she worked as a program evaluation manager for Teachers College, Columbia University and was responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating professional development programs for early career teachers working in under-resourced communities. Dr. Cardichon received her EdD and MA degrees in politics and education from Teachers College, Columbia University; a JD degree from Pace University School of Law; and a BA degree in political science from the University of Michigan.