About Compass Evaluation

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Meet Chelsea

Hi, I’m Chelsea BaileyShea – owner and principal evaluator of Compass Evaluation + Consulting. I founded my company in 2018 with a mission to support innovative, inspiring programs to be and do their best. And I do it in the way I know and love best – through data and evaluation.

In my nearly two decades of educational professional experience, I’ve managed and evaluated projects funded by a number of renowned organizations, foundations, and institutions. Some of my prior clients’ work was funded by:

  • U.S. Department of Education

  • The National Science Foundation

  • National Institutes of Health

  • U.S. Department of State

  • International Labour Organization

  • Community organizations and foundations

  • Colleges and universities

a headshot of Chelsea BaileyShea, founder of Compass Evaluation, She sits outside, facing the camera. She smiles at the camera, slightly leaning toward it. She has on a navy jacket and a red striped top

Many of my clients are educational institutions, and I have a keen understanding of academia from my years of working within this context as a faculty member, director of program evaluation and student services administrator.

I also hold a PhD from the University of Rochester.

But just as important as my technical skills are the qualities that inform my unique approach to evaluation – an ability to go with the flow, build relationships, and remain calm and compassionate under pressure.

When I’m not working for my inspiring clients, I’m a parent, wife, travel enthusiast, California- bred / current hardy Upstate New Yorker, and personal assistant to a sweet but vocal dog and cat.

You know about me now, so I want to hear about you! Drop me a line and let’s get to know each other.

a blue book sits on top of a light wood desk. you can also see a pen beside it and a teacup

“I have worked with the owner and principal investigator of Compass Evaluation + Consulting for more than a decade. I’m so grateful for the insight, support, expertise, and connections that Dr. BaileyShea offers. She has vast evaluation and academic knowledge coupled with fantastic experience in all stages of the federal sponsor award process: proposal writing, program execution, and progress and final reporting. Our outreach and education programs are successful in large part due to the impressive evaluation work. I strongly recommend Compass Evaluation + Consulting for its indispensable service and professionalism.”

Natalie Yager Antal
Administrator, Institute for MAtter at eXtreme Energy Density & Center for Matter at Atomic Pressure at University of Rochester

Quick Q&A - This or That Edition

If we’re going to be working together, it’s important to know the human behind the credentials, don’t you think?

Podcast or Playlist:
So many podcasts, so little time!

Fiction or Nonfiction:
Definitely fiction – I spend all day with facts and data and love to escape into a good story.

iPhone or Android:
iPhone … though my children tease me for not entirely knowing how to use it.

Vintage or Brand New:
Vintage, hands down. Is there anything better than classic style at a bargain?

Early Bird or Night Owl:
Early bird! I’m up before 5am most days and fast asleep by 9pm. What can I say, I’m wild.

City or Country:
Do I have to choose? I’ll take fresh country air with the vibrance of city life.

Walk or Run:
You know that neighbor you always see out for a walk and say, there she goes again? That’s me. I used to walk 10 miles a day!

“Chelsea is a talented consultant who stresses reliability, thoroughness and thoughtfulness in all of her projects. I’ve had the pleasure of working with her for over 5 years and have been positively influenced by her communication and critical thinking skills.

In addition to working one-on-one with the CEO, Chelsea mentored many of our employees to help them grow and reach their full potential. The coaching she provided us was invaluable to our business, which ultimately led to a rebranding, significant revenue growth and an acquisition. I would highly recommend her for any engagement.”

Adam Stetzer, PhD
CEO and Founder - Semify

Brand Values

  • Curiosity

    There’s always something to learn and surprises to be had.

  • Partnership

    I’m not just a name in your inbox – I see myself as a member of your team.

  • Accessibility

    No question is too small or ask too big. I’ve got your back.

  • Inclusion

    I value diverse perspectives and seek out feedback from a range of stakeholders.

Work with Me
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Share your upcoming project with me

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