Samantha Batko
About Samantha Batko
Samantha Batko is a Senior Research Associate at the Urban Institute, specializing in mixed-methods projects aimed at addressing homelessness. She has extensive experience in research and program evaluation, having worked in various capacities within the field since 2013.
Work at Urban Institute
Samantha Batko has served as a Senior Research Associate at the Urban Institute since 2020. In this role, she focuses on evaluating homelessness initiatives and developing tools to address housing challenges. Prior to her current position, she worked as a Research Associate at the same institution from 2017 to 2019. Her work at Urban Institute emphasizes mixed-methods research aimed at identifying effective solutions for homelessness.
Previous Experience in Homelessness Research
Before joining Urban Institute, Samantha Batko held significant roles at the National Alliance to End Homelessness. She was the Interim Director of the Center for Capacity Building for five months in 2014 and served as the Director of the Homelessness Research Institute from 2013 to 2017. Her experience in these positions contributed to her expertise in homelessness research and policy development.
Education and Expertise
Samantha Batko earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Virginia Tech, where she studied from 2001 to 2005. Her educational background provides a foundation for her research in homelessness and social policy. She specializes in mixed-methods projects that focus on effective solutions to homelessness, contributing to various initiatives and programs.
Key Projects and Initiatives
Samantha Batko leads the evaluation of the Tipping Point Community's Chronic Homelessness Initiative in San Francisco. She is involved in the development of the Emergency Rental Assistance Priority Index and neighborhood targeting tool. Additionally, she works on the U.S. Departments of Housing and Urban Development and Justice Pay for Success permanent supportive housing demonstration, and contributes to the U.S. Department of Labor's Homeless Veteran Reintegration program.
Community Engagement and Support Programs
Samantha Batko participates in New Jersey's Keeping Families Together supportive housing program. Her involvement in these community engagement efforts reflects her commitment to addressing homelessness and supporting vulnerable populations through research and practical solutions.