Dr. Amanda Klonsky is the new Deputy Director of Research and Analysis at the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority. Previously the Research and Policy Fellow at the UCLA Law COVID Behind Bars Data Project, she has conducted significant research on the impact of COVID-19 in carceral settings. Her forthcoming book, “Pandemic of Punishment,” documents the experiences of people behind bars during the pandemic.

Prior to her doctoral studies, Amanda worked as an educator in jails and prisons. She co-led an arts and literacy program for detained youth at the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center and helped launch a district-wide initiative at Chicago Public Schools to support post-release youth. Later, she led a large prison education organization operating in the Northeastern United States. Amanda holds a Doctorate in Education Leadership from Harvard University and a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Chicago. Amanda lives in Chicago with her husband , their 7-year-old daughter, and a giant poodle.