Stephanie Parker is originally from southern California. She has previously worked for USAID as a program specialist where she was responsible for budgeting, strategic planning, reporting and procurement. While working for USAID, Stephanie earned her master’s degree in International Development Studies from George Washington University. She focused her studies on rural community development in Africa and conducted a research project on market-based approaches to agricultural development specifically in Uganda and Tanzania. Stephanie has also worked for the QED Group coordinating and managing various development projects as well for a small consulting firm. She completed her undergraduate degree in economics and literature at Claremont McKenna College. Stephanie can frequently be found reading novels, playing volleyball, and exploring cities by foot.