Samantha Kate McVey

Samantha is a Program Coordinator at Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations (ILR), where they support student engagement and research coordination across three units within the Center for Applied Research on Work (CAROW): the Institute for Compensation Studies (ICS), the Labor Dynamics Institute (LDI), and Workplace Inclusion and Diversity Education (WIDE). With nearly a decade of experience in higher education, nonprofit leadership, and public interest advocacy, Samantha brings a deep commitment to community-building, student success, and operational excellence.

Prior to their role at ILR, Samantha held several student affairs and engagement positions at Cornell Law School, where they led major events, advised student organizations, managed crisis response operations, and contributed to fundraising and inclusion efforts. They have also worked with national nonprofit networks such as NYPIRG and the Fund for the Public Interest, promoting civic engagement, environmental policy, and equity-focused initiatives across the country.

Samantha is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration (MPA) at Cornell’s Jeb E. Brooks School of Public Policy and is expected to graduate in December 2025. Passionate about building inclusive, mission-driven programs that connect people and promote public service, they are known for their collaborative approach, ability to lead during times of transition, and skill in delivering impact across complex, multi-stakeholder environments.