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For the 12th consecutive year, two scholars from Sanford have been named among the most influential education policy experts in the nation. Professors Helen “Sunny” Ladd and Charles Clotfelter were recognized in the 2025 RHSU Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings, which highlight academics who contribute meaningfully to public discussions of education policy.

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Helen Ladd photo
Helen "Sunny" Ladd

Helen Ladd, the Susan B. King Professor Emerita of Public Policy, ranked 75th on this year’s list. Known for her extensive research on education policy, school finance, and teacher quality, Ladd has long been a leading voice in addressing inequalities in public education. Her work has informed policy decisions at both state and national levels.

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Charles Clotfelter
Charles Clotfelter

Charles Clotfelter, Z. Smith Reynolds Professor of Public Policy Studies, ranked 118th. A renowned scholar in the economics of education, Clotfelter’s research examines topics ranging from higher education policy to the role of athletics in universities. His books and articles have shaped conversations about the evolving landscape of education.

The RHSU Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings are compiled annually by Frederick M. Hess of the American Enterprise Institute, recognizing the 200 scholars whose work has the greatest impact on education policy and practice. Rankings are determined based on metrics such as book citations, mentions in academic and popular media, and public engagement. The RHSU Edu-Scholar Public Influence Rankings employ eight publicly available metrics: Google Scholar Score, published books, book rankings on Amazon, syllabus points via OpenSyllabusProject.org, mentions in newspapers, websites, prominent education media and in the Congressional Record.

“This remarkable recognition underscores the lasting influence of Sunny Ladd and Charles Clotfelter on the economics of education broadly,” said Manoj Mohanan, Interim Dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy. “Their groundbreaking research and steadfast commitment to education equity and innovation continue to inspire the Sanford community and inform public discourse on education policy. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments.”

The continued inclusion of Ladd and Clotfelter in the RHSU Edu-Scholar rankings highlights the Sanford School’s dedication to addressing critical challenges in education and advancing impactful policy solutions.