Jesse Hahnel

Jesse Hahnel is a seasoned professional specializing in equity and justice issues, currently serving as the Program Director for Democracy & Environment at Crankstart since May 2023. Hahnel's responsibilities include leading funding strategies and grantmaking related to democracy, criminal justice, immigrant justice, and environmental justice. Previous roles include Executive Director at the National Center for Youth Law, where advocacy efforts aimed at transforming policies affecting youth, and Director and Founder of FosterEd, focusing on improving educational outcomes for students in foster care. Hahnel has also held positions at the KIPP Foundation and as a mathematics teacher at both the high school and middle school levels. Educational credentials include a JD in Education Law from Stanford Law School and multiple degrees from Harvard University, including a BA in Mathematics.