Kwelin Waller is senior program manager with the AIR Equity Initiative. Waller works to combine research and technical assistance with real-world applications, leading the Equity Initiative’s work in the interconnected areas of workforce development, community health and well-being. Additionally, she leads the AIR Scholars and Leaders Award grant competition, an initiative that expands the diversity of staff who lead research, technical assistance and systems change at AIR.  With over 18 years in local government, Waller’s expertise spans federal grant implementation, grants compliance, neighborhood economic development programs, and design thinking principles.