Leslie produces research and analysis on strengthening the safety net in North Carolina. She is also focused on the ways in which budget and tax policy supports well-being for all North Carolinians.
Before joining the Budget & Tax Center in 2026, Leslie worked at an immigration law firm in her hometown of Winston-Salem, NC. Her past experiences also include working on evaluation projects at the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County school district, completing community engagement work for the City of Wilson, and interning at the U.S. Department of Education
Leslie was born and raised in Winston-Salem, NC, but her family is from La Costa Chica, an area in Mexico that includes parts of Guerrero and Oaxaca. She earned her undergraduate degree in Politics & International Affairs and Spanish from Wake Forest University in 2022. She also obtained her Master of Public Policy degree from Duke University in 2025. During her spare time, Leslie enjoys running, working out, reading, crocheting, and baking.
Contact me about:
- Social safety net programs
