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Associate Research Director

As an associate research director at Sweet Grass, I partner with clients to design and carry out research projects that center community insight and perspective. This often means working collaboratively with clients to develop action plans, create research tools (like interview guides and surveys), and design strategies for engaging key stakeholders. I also work with clients to synthesize findings into meaningful results that help guide decision-making, grant writing, or proof of concepts. Connecting with and learning from the people we work with are some of my favorite and most rewarding parts of my role.

Before joining Sweet Grass, I spent over a decade working with mission-driven organizations focused on improving sexual and reproductive health outcomes of all individuals. Since 2010, my roles have spanned nonprofits, academic institutions, philanthropic organizations, and independent consulting — mostly in a global context. My priority is to approach my work with cultural humility, respect for diverse perspectives, and awareness of power imbalances.

More recently, I became a trained community-based birth doula. I hope to support pregnant people in having a birth experience that aligns with their values and choices — one where they feel seen, heard, and supported.

When I’m not working, I’m probably out for a run, lost in a book, or planning my next adventure.

Pronouns: she/her

Email: jackie@sweetgrassconsulting.net

Team: Research

Jackie Carter

Recent articles

Native communities are breaking the silence on elder abuse and mistreatment

Sharing your story with clarity and heart can help build real connection, inspire action, and drive the change you’re working toward.

5 essentials for an ethical and effective food sovereignty study

Blending data with deep community knowledge, Four Bands is reshaping what lending looks like on the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation.

Featured projects

Find your story: Texas Indigenous data sovereignty study

Texas Tribal Buffalo Project is using data on food, health, identity, lifeways, and economic conditions to support community revitalization.

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