Ashton Yurk

As an Associate on the Data and Policy Team, Ashton is responsible for the Programs and Partnership data as well as a variety of projects meant 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 Englewood neighborhood. He worked in a fourth-grade classroom as a mentor, tutor, and social and emotional near-peer while conducting ELA and math instruction. Following his first year, Ashton served as a Team Leader, leading a team of new AmeriCorps members in their first year of service. 

Ashton is a graduate of Marquette University with a degree in Political Science and a minor in Italian Language. He is a candidate for a Master of Education in Education Policy degree from American University, where he has researched the fundamental limitations education has experienced in national and local policy. 

During his free time, Ashton enjoys trying the new restaurants Chicago has to offer, frequenting festivals around the city, and going to the movie theater at least once a week!