Ariel T. Powell is currently a Postdoctoral Scholar in the Department of Public Policy & Administration at Florida International University (FIU). She earned her doctorate in Public Affairs from FIU in August of 2025. She also holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from FIU and a Bachelor’s degree from New College of Florida.

Broadly defined, Ariel’s research focuses on issues of democratic governance and how individuals interact with government institutions. Currently, Ariel more specifically focuses on education policy, criminal justice policy, and local governments.