I am a research associate at the Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) and an economist with over a decade of experience applying rigorous quantitative methods to complex research questions in economic development and public finance. I specialize in understanding the factors that shape economic opportunity, particularly for places and communities often overlooked.
My work spans economic research, advanced data analysis, and policy evaluation. I am passionate about applying economic theory to analyze research questions related to maximizing human potential and fostering economic opportunity, and I have a strong commitment to translating complex economic findings into actionable insights and informing work that makes a real-world impact.
Research and Professional Experience
Prior to joining CORI, I served as an economist at the U.S. Small Business Administration, where I led regulatory economic analysis and evaluations of the agency’s programs alongside my multidisciplinary team-members. My responsibilities included conducting cost-benefit analysis and regulatory flexibility analysis, assessing the impact of proposed regulations on small businesses, and supporting program evaluation through evidence-based decision making. I also designed and delivered trainings on regulatory economic analysis and co-led the agency’s Evidence and Evaluation Community of Practice.
Previously, I contributed to the development of national statistics as an economist for the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) through the Pathways Program, focusing on the distribution of personal income. I have also conducted policy research on state fiscal health and economic development policy issues at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University (GMU) (see examples of my research here).
Education and Methdology
I recently obtained my Ph.D. in economics from George Mason University (Fall 2025), where I also hold an MA in economics (2020). My doctoral research explores the persistent long-term effects of historical exclusionary policies on economic, demographic, and housing outcomes in Midwestern communities, specializing in regional economics and economic sociology. I also served as a graduate lecturer of undergraduate economics at GMU.
My methodological toolkit combines strong foundations in economic theory with advanced econometric modeling, causal inference, and data analysis.
Service and Engagement
I serve on the board of the JP Innovation Project, a nonprofit committed to connecting high-need youth with technology education and opportunities.
Olivia Gonzalez 