Nicolle Grayson

As vice president of communications at EdTrust, Nicolle leads a high-impact team dedicated to advancing policies that dismantle the racial and economic barriers in the U.S. education system. Her team focuses on recognizing the excellence and boundless potential of Black, Latino, and low-income students, ensuring they have equitable access to quality education.

Nicolle drives the development and execution of bold, comprehensive communication strategies that amplify EdTrust’s advocacy agenda and shape national and regional conversations on educational equity. Through strategic media relations, digital campaigns, and targeted outreach, she engages key stakeholders—educators, policymakers, parents, caregivers, and communities—mobilizing them to push for systemic change from Pre-K through college.

She builds strong partnerships with national and state-level organizations and manages high-profile public relations efforts, ensuring EdTrust’s mission resonates with diverse audiences and drives tangible, lasting change. With a laser focus on advancing equity and justice, Nicolle plays a critical role in shaping EdTrust’s public narrative, elevating the organization and the voices of advocates for educational equity, and ensuring their message inspires action nationwide.

Before joining EdTrust, Nicolle was a communications manager for The Pew Charitable Trusts, where she oversaw outreach efforts for the Kids’ Safe & Healthful Foods Project, a joint initiative between Pew and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. She also worked at D.C.-based public and media relations firms Widmeyer Communications and The Caraway Group, serving nonprofit, government, and corporate clients.

Nicolle holds a master’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, a bachelor’s degree from Spelman College, and a women in leadership certificate from Cornell University. She currently serves on the Education Writers Association’s Board of Directors and on the advisory board for Aspire, an alliance of higher education organizations working to increase the diversity of STEM faculty nationwide. She resides in Maryland with her husband, two teenage sons, and her beloved puppy.

Why are you passionate about working at EdTrust?

I believe in the transformative power of education and the urgency of dismantling the systemic barriers that prevent so many students—particularly Black, Latino, and low-income students—from reaching their full potential. Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic communication can shape narratives, elevate critical issues, and inspire meaningful action. At EdTrust, I have the privilege of using these tools to advance equity and justice in education, ensuring that our message reaches and resonates with key stakeholders—from policymakers to educators to families.

Education has the ability to unlock opportunities, and I am deeply committed to amplifying the voices of those often overlooked in national conversations about education reform. By driving EdTrust’s communications strategy, I can influence public discourse, build strong partnerships, and mobilize communities to push for the systemic change that our students deserve. The work we do at EdTrust is not just about raising awareness—it’s about driving action and creating lasting impact, and I am honored to be part of that mission.

What’s your favorite thing to do outside of work?

Outside work, I have a few favorite activities that bring me joy and relaxation. I love doing makeup for others—it’s a creative outlet for me, and there’s something satisfying about helping people feel confident and beautiful. I enjoy spending time in my garden, especially pruning my long-stem roses. It’s a peaceful, meditative process that allows me unwind. Another favorite activity is attending my son’s marching band competitions. As a proud band mom, I love seeing him lead and perform with his peers. And when I’m not doing any of those things, you’ll likely find me listening to 90s and 00s R&B, my go-to soundtrack for nostalgia, joy, and giggles.