Ashton Yurk

As a Data and Policy Associate on the Public Affairs team, Ashton is responsible for program and partnership data and various policy-related projects to support The Fund’s mission — to improve Chicago’s public schools by investing in the talented leaders who run them.

Before The Fund, Ashton completed two years of AmeriCorps service with City Year Chicago, working at schools in Chicago’s South Side. He worked in a fourth grade classroom as a mentor, tutor, and social and emotional near-peer while conducting English language arts and math instruction. Following his first year, Ashton served as a team leader of new AmeriCorps members in their first year of service.

Ashton is a graduate of Marquette University with a bachelor’s degree in political science and a minor in Italian language. He also has a Master of Education in education policy from American University. 

During his free time, Ashton enjoys trying the new restaurants Chicago has to offer, reading a good book, and going to the movie theater at least once a week!