School of Education Scholars Earn Prestigious NAEd/Spencer Fellowships

By Rachel Sampson
​May 19, 2026

Four scholars from the UC Irvine School of Education have been recognized through the highly competitive fellowship programs of the National Academy of Education (NAEd) and Spencer Foundation, honoring emerging researchers whose work is advancing the future of education. 

Doctoral candidates Biraj Bisht and Nicholas Ainsworth were named 2026 NAEd/Spencer Dissertation Fellows, a national fellowship awarded to outstanding doctoral students conducting education-related research. The program supports scholars whose projects demonstrate strong potential to shape educational research, policy, and practice. 

Bisht’s research explores educational inequality and the broader social conditions that shape students’ opportunities to learn and thrive. Ainsworth’s work examines the intersections of education, policy, and civic life, with a focus on how institutions influence democratic participation and belonging. 
In addition, assistant professors Lena Shi and Symone Gyles were selected as  NAEd/Spencer Postdoctoral Fellows. The fellowship recognizes early-career scholars conducting important research that addresses critical challenges in education.

Clockwise from top left: Biraj Bisht, Nicholas Ainsworth, Symone Gyles, Lena Shi

Shi’s research focuses on equity and access in education systems including the cost impacts of starting in a community college instead of a four-year college, while Gyles examines issues related to identity, race, and educational opportunity, helping illuminate how schools and institutions can better support historically marginalized communities. 

“These fellowships are among the most respected honors in the field of education research, and we are incredibly proud to see Biraj, Nicholas, Lena, and Symone recognized at the national level,” said Professor and Interim Dean Julie Washington. “Their work reflects the depth of scholarship and commitment to educational equity that defines our school. Each of these scholars is asking important questions that have the potential to create meaningful impact for students, schools, and communities.”