#United States #Washington, D.C. #NIRS #Retirement Policy #Barbara Butrica

National Institute on Retirement Security Welcomes Barbara Butrica

On April 14, 2026, the National Institute on Retirement Security (NIRS) made headlines with the announcement of a key leadership appointment. Barbara A. Butrica, Ph.D., an esteemed expert in retirement policy, has been named the new Director of Research. This pivotal role comes at an urgent time as many Americans grapple with the complexities surrounding retirement security.

A Leader in Retirement Research

Barbara Butrica is no stranger to the field; she joins NIRS with over two decades of experience and a reputation as a leading authority on issues concerning retirement income, Social Security, and workforce dynamics. In her new capacity at NIRS, she is set to steer the organization’s research agenda, focusing on producing thorough, data-driven analyses aimed at informing policymakers and practitioners in the field.

Dan Doonan, the executive director of NIRS, emphasized the significance of Butrica's background during the announcement. “Her unparalleled expertise and demonstrated research leadership will play a crucial role in elevating discussions around retirement security,” he stated. “With many Americans facing challenges in their retirement planning, Barbara’s insights will certainly aid our mission to deliver relevant and impactful research.”

Butrica's prior work at the Urban Institute has laid a strong foundation for her new role. There, she orchestrated significant research initiatives centered on retirement income and the economic welfare of older adults. Over her career, she has authored or co-authored more than 150 publications that have been extensively recognized in academic and policy-oriented circles.

Academic Credentials and Commitment

Butrica’s academic qualifications underscore her suitability for the role, holding a Ph.D. in economics from Syracuse University and a bachelor's degree in economics and political science from Wellesley College. Her elected membership in the National Academy of Social Insurance further illustrates her standing in the field.

“I’m truly honored to join the NIRS team at such a critical juncture for retirement policy,” Butrica remarked. She recognized the institute’s commitment to producing accessible and high-quality research, enhancing understanding around the pressing issues American workers and retirees face.

In her role, she aims to further the evidence base surrounding retirement security and amplify the voices of working individuals, ultimately working toward viable solutions for retirement security challenges.

NIRS’s Vision and Mission

The National Institute on Retirement Security operates as a non-profit, nonpartisan organization focused on delivering insights into retirement security. Its mission is to advance informed policymaking while showcasing the immense value of retirement security across economic stakeholders, including employees and employers alike. The organization maintains a base in Washington, D.C., and garners membership from a diverse range of entities, including financial service firms and trade associations.

NIRS is a respected entity recognized for illuminating the vital questions around retirement in the U.S. It's dedicated to ensuring that essential data and insights directly inform those shaping policy to protect the financial futures of millions.

Moving forward, Butrica will utilize her rich reservoir of experience to spearhead projects and research that not only contribute to understanding but also drive improvements in retirement policy for all Americans. The anticipation surrounding her leadership signifies an exciting new chapter for NIRS as it continues its efforts towards fostering a secure retirement environment.