Issue Areas:

Data and Research

Education:

The University of Texas at Austin – Ph.D., Social & Personality Psychology

University of Michigan – B.A. with High Honors, Psychology

Focus

Dr. Tracy Ayrhart serves as Vice President of Data and Research at Texas 2036, where she leads the organization’s strategy to deliver trusted, actionable data and insights that help Texas leaders plan for the state’s long-term future.

Prior Work Experience

Tracy brings more than 20 years of experience building high-impact research and data teams and translating complex analytics into clear, policy-relevant information. She is known for designing data systems, dashboards and governance frameworks that strengthen transparency, accountability and cross-sector collaboration. Her work consistently centers both rigorous research and lived experience, ensuring evidence informs decisions in ways that are practical and grounded in real work context.

Before joining Texas 2036, Tracy served as Vice President of Research and Strategic Partnerships at the Central Texas Food Bank, where she built one of the strongest research and data functions in the Feeding America network. There, she led the creation of the Central Texas Food System Dashboard and developed tools widely used by policymakers, nonprofits and funders to guide regional planning and policy discussions. She also established data governance practices that informed and influenced efforts across the national network and helped convene cross-sector partners around shared data and long-term solutions. 

Earlier in her career, Tracy led research and evaluation efforts focused on women’s health, HIV prevention, early childhood programs and public health systems. Her background spans nonprofit leadership, government health systems and academic research, giving her a broad perspective on how evidence can drive better outcomes at scale.

Tracy holds a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin and completed postdoctoral training at the LBJ School of Public Affairs. She is based in Austin.

Tracy’s first day at Texas 2036 will be Feb. 17, 2026.