As Policy & Communications Director for KnowledgeWorks Foundation, Andrew Benson combines his extensive experience in both communications and public policy to improve public education and support college access across the state of Ohio, moving the Foundation closer to the goal of removing barriers to education for all.

As founder of New Ohio Institute, a think tank on statewide public policy, Benson served as expert commentator and consultant on school funding cases in Ohio, and directed in-depth studies on education, statewide polls, and publications that served as a resource to a wide audience across the state.

Formerly an award-winning reporter for the The Plain Dealer, Ohio's largest daily newspaper, he also oversees strategic communications for all of the Foundation's initiatives.

Benson was awarded a bachelor's in journalism from Ohio University, a master's degree in journalism from The Ohio State University, and a master's degree in public administration from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government.

When not overseeing the Policy & Communications team at KnowledgeWorks Foundation, he is involved in education at the local level, within his children's school district. A member of Residents for Madeira Schools, Benson has supported school levy campaigns. He also coaches soccer.

Benson says he works to support education because he believes that high-quality education leads to a higher quality of life for people and communities. "We cannot rest until high quality education is abundant in all communities and for all individuals," he says.