Evan Omerso

Director, Strategic Initiatives

Evan Omerso

Facts matter.


Evan leads organizational alignment, working broadly across programs to ensure that the current strategic plan is integrated into all DQC work plans and activities. He collaborates with other senior leaders to develop and direct strategic priorities for the organization, while supporting program leads to address changing needs in the field. Evan also leads internal communications and ensures that DQC organizes effectively internally to deliver on strategic plan goals.

Evan began his tenure at DQC in 2011 as an associate on the communications team, and moved into leadership as associate director of strategic communications in 2015. Evan is proud to support DQC’s vision of all education stakeholders—especially parents and teachers—having the right information and support to help students excel, no matter where they live.

Evan began his career in education advocacy in 2005 as part of the communications team at the Council of Chief State School Officers, a membership organization of the top education officials from the states. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the Catholic University of America and a master’s degree in English and American literature from Georgetown University. Evan spends his free time puttering in his garden and walking his spirited American Staffordshire terrier around Northeast DC.

Why do you do this work? It’s a privilege to work with a bunch of smart, passionate people in service of the idea that every kid deserves success. I believe that facts matter and that people deserve to know exactly how well schools are serving our students—and when they aren’t.

Who are your education heroes? My education hero is my mom, who with two small kids at home went back to school to become a teacher. She taught elementary school for over 25 years and taught me that it’s always possible to go after a new dream.

Who is the most inspirational person you’ve heard speak? Desmond Meade, president of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition. His passion for social justice is unmatched, and his personal story of overcoming dire obstacles on his way to success is amazing.