Pamela Burdman

Pam, founder of Just Equations, is an expert on college access, readiness, and success. A thought leader on the role of mathematics in education equity, she works at the intersection of research, policy, and practice to synthesize knowledge from the field and advance strategies that support student success. Pam has written 18 reports and more than 70 articles on math education policy issues over the last 10 years. Her work helped lay the groundwork for new policies designed to improve equitable college opportunity in California. She has also been a featured speaker, convener, and advisor to educators, policymakers, foundations, and think tanks. Pam’s experience in journalism, including covering issues such as the University of California’s reversal of affirmative action as a San Francisco Chronicle reporter, informed her commitment to education equity. As a program officer for the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, she devised and implemented strategies for strengthening college readiness and success, which led to several California initiatives that continue today. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and Master’s degrees in Business and Asian Studies from the University of California at Berkeley.