Lisa Merkel-Holguin

Lisa Merkel-Holguin, MSW (U. of Colorado-Denver, Kempe Center) has over 25 years of experience in identifying, developing, and implementing innovative reforms in child welfare systems, particularly in areas of child safety and permanency. She competently transfers research and evaluation findings into child welfare practice with national and international implications. With her expertise in implementation and capacity building, she has supported the installation of numerous evidence-based/-informed innovations in agencies in over 40 states. As a PI and senior research analyst, she led numerous evaluations in child welfare, including three Family Connection grants, child abuse prevention programs, and the National QIC on Differential Response. She currently serves as an Organizational and Waiver Consultant for the Capacity Building Center for States. As Implementation Lead, she will coordinate the efforts of the QIC-WD Implementation Team.