Tina Young

Tina Young joined ESG in 2023 to support the organization’s secondary career readiness work. Her expertise focuses on helping states enhance their exploration and navigation efforts to help students identify pathways, career interests, and postsecondary options that speak to their strengths and passions. Tina has leveraged her policy analysis and research experience to contribute to Extending the Runway: A National Analysis Of Middle School Career Exploration, and has subsequently convened states in a community of practice to further their middle school career exploration policies and practices.

Prior to joining ESG, Tina served as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the State University System of Florida’s Board of Governors and as a Senior Legislative Analyst for the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability for the Florida Legislature. Tina was also a National Board Certified Teacher in Leon County Schools, where she taught social studies to a diverse group of students.

Tina earned a Master’s degree in Education Policy, Planning, and Analysis from Florida State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science Education from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

Why are you in this work?

In my own experience as a student who moved between different education systems, I recognized early on that the quality of education one receives has the potential to impact the trajectory of their entire life. I believe that all students, regardless of their background or zip code, should have access to an educational experience that will help them become successful and fulfilled.

Why ESG?

My early interest in education was driven by a desire to promote more equitable outcomes for students, especially students of color or those from low-income backgrounds who are often left behind. ESG’s mission of achieving educational equity, particularly for underserved students, aligns with my own interests and values.