Ariel T. Powell is currently an Adjunct 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.

Her teaching interest includes research design, public policy, state-local government relations, public administration, local politics, policy implementation, and state politics. She has taught an introductory public administration course for undergraduates and is currently teaching a course on South Florida policies.