News - News & Publications

Visit APPAM at ASPA

Are you attending the ASPA Annual Conference this year? Stop by the APPAM booth for some SWAG and to say hi. On Saturday, March 21, from 5:00 – 6:15 PM, APPAM organized the session: Subsidies Are Not Health Care Reform: The Need for Real Change.

Become the Editor of JPIE

We are currently inviting Letters of Interest (LOIs) from prospective Editors for APPAM's brand new journal, The Journal of Policy Implementation & Evaluation (JPIE).

Sign-On Letter: Preserve Federal Research & Evaluation on Children and Families

On February 13, 2026, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced plans to drastically restructure and effectively dismantle the Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation (OPRE) within the Administration for Children and Families. This move threatens one of the federal government’s most respected, bipartisan research offices—responsible for producing independent evidence on programs that serve millions of children and families.

Introducing the 2026 APPAM Policy Council Members

We're excited to announce our newly-elected members of the APPAM Policy Council! Congratulations to these exceptional individuals. We look forward to your leadership in 2026 and beyond!

Happy Holidays from APPAM!

Happy Holidays from APPAM! Our offices will be closed from December 24, 2025, to January 5, 2026.

Thanksgiving

Wish you a wonderful Thanksgiving! The APPAM offices will be closed November 28 - 29, and will reopen on December 1.

Zachary Parolin, Wins 25th David N. Kershaw Award

Zachary Parolin, Professor of Social Policy, Inequality, and Opportunity at the University of Oxford, will receive the David N. Kershaw Award and Prize for his public policy contributions toward reducing hardship and expanding opportunity.

September Update from the APPAM President & Executive Director

Introducing the APPAM Store

Shop for all your favorite APPAM swag and support our mission!

Upcoming Events and Opportunities for Students

Spring is here—and we're excited to announce several opportunities for students to engage with APPAM over the next few months!

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Award Nominations are Now Open!

We are excited to announce that nominations are now open for our annual awards!

Donate to Support Researchers and Equity and Inclusion in Public Policy

Find out how you can support students and professionals from diverse backgrounds

Remembering Beryl Radin

The APPAM community remembers the former president, who recently passed.

Jul 24, 2024

#2024APPAM Registration is now open! Secure your spot today.

Donate to Support Equity and Inclusion in Public Policy

Find out how you can support students and professionals from diverse backgrounds

Help us welcome the incoming members of APPAM's Policy Council, voted in by APPAM members!

Submit a Paper to WEAI Conference

Submit a proposal to the 99th annual WEAI conference in Seattle this summer!

Nominate a Student to join the 2024 -2025 Policy Council

2024 APPAM Policy Council Nominations

Nominate yourself or a fellow APPAM member to serve on the APPAM Policy Council.

A Message from Erdal Tekin, JPAM Editor-in-Chief

The Journal of Policy Analysis and Management (JPAM) is pleased to announce some exciting internal updates regarding role changes within the journal.

Introducing APPAM's 2023 Student Activities Committee

APPAM's Student Activities Committee members have been announced!

Introducing APPAM's Incoming 2023 Policy Council Members

Help us welcome the incoming members of APPAM's Policy Council, voted in by APPAM members!

Larry Lynn Jr., APPAM Past President, passes away

APPAM mourns the loss of distinguished member Larry Lynn Jr., a former Professor of Public Management at the University of Chicago.

Nominate a Student to join the 2023 -2024 Policy Council

Institutional representatives have until December 31 to nominate one of their graduate students to be selected to join the Policy Council.

#2022APPAM Blog: Super Session - Advancing Researcher Practitioner Partnerships with State and Local Governments to Inform Research and Policy with Rigorous Evidence

#2022APPAM Blog: Super Session - Lessons Learned from SSA Demonstrations in Disability Policy

Past President Sherry Glied delivered her Presidential Address on Monday, March 28.

#2021APPAM Blog: A Day in the Life of a First-Time Attendee, PhD Student

First-Time Attendees at the #2021APPAM conference share their experiences networking and attending sessions.

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#2021APPAM Spotlight: Truman School of Government & Public Affairs

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Truman School of Government & Public Affairs.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University - New Brunswick

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy, Rutgers University - New Brunswick.

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on University of Southern California, Price School of Public Policy.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: University of Southern California, Price School of Public Policy

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on University of Southern California, Price School of Public Policy.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: University of Southern California, Price School of Public Policy

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight Northeastern University’s School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Northeastern University, School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight Northeastern University’s School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Brandeis University - The Heller School for Social Policy and Management

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Brandeis University - The Heller School for Social Policy and Management.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: University of Chicago Harris School of Public Policy

APPAM Election Delayed

The APPAM election has been delayed until Spring 2022.

Nominate a Student to join the Policy Council

Institutional representatives have until December 31 to nominate one of their graduate students to be selected to join the Policy Council.

Five Minutes with Stone Washington - APPAM Student Member

APPAM’s Five Minutes with… series was introduced to illuminate the work of individual APPAM members and promote connections between members based on their shared interests. The opportunity to be profiled on our website and social media through these interviews is an exclusive APPAM member benefit. Enjoy this interview in the series with Stone Washington, a PhD Candidate at Clemson University Graduate School.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Indiana University O'Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Peter G. Peterson Foundation

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on the Peter G. Peterson Foundation.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: MDRC

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on MDRC.

Georgia Institute of Technology's Dr. Marilyn A. Brown Receives 2021 World Citizen Prize in Environmental Performance Award

Dr. Brown is APPAM's 2021 World Citizen Prize in Environmental Performance recipient.

David Weimer, University of Wisconsin Professor, Receives Inaugural Policy Field Distinguished Contribution Award

Prof. Weimer is recognized for his significant and long-term contributions to the development and growth of Public Policy Analysis and Management as a field.

Dr. Sanya Carley, Indiana University Professor, Receives 21st David N. Kershaw Award

Dr. Carley will be honored at the 2021 APPAM Research Conference in March 2022. The Award consists of a commemorative sculpture and a $20,000 cash prize.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Mathematica

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Mathematica.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Carnegie Mellon University Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Carnegie Mellon University’s Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: GWU Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on the GWU Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration.

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#2021APPAM Spotlight: NYU Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on the NYU Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: School of Public Policy at UMBC

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on the School of Public Policy at University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

#2021APPAM Spotlight: Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy - University of Albany, SUNY

The #2021APPAM Fall Research Conference will feature some fantastic sponsors from across the policy research spectrum. Today we're shining a spotlight on Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy at University of Albany, SUNY.

Announcing the 2021 Equity and Inclusion Fellows

2021 Student Research Online Seminar Series

May 2021 will bring the second edition of the Student Research Online Seminar Series! Submissions open until February 12 for papers and panels!

#2020APPAM Blog: LGBTQI+ Well-Being

Just like in previous years, students, an important part of APPAM's membership, are writing blog posts in which they recap the Super Sessions they attended. Vanderbilt University, Education PhD Student, Walt Ecton writes about Understanding the Well-Being of Well-Being of LGBTQI+ Populations.

#2020APPAM Blog: COVID-19 and Evidence-Based Policymaking

Just like in previous years, students, an important part of APPAM's membership, are writing blog posts in which they recap the Super Sessions they attended. University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Marketing PhD Student Kiwoong Yoo writes about COVID-19 and Evidence-Based Policymaking.

#2020APPAM Blog: Federal Agencies and Diverse Stakeholders

Just like in previous years, students, an important part of APPAM's membership, are writing blog posts in which they recap the Super Sessions they attended. University of Tennessee, Knoxville Economics, graduate student Marissa Reuther talks about Federal Agencies and Diverse Stakeholders.

#2020APPAM Blog: Policy Analysis and Racial Justice

Just like in previous years, students, an important part of APPAM's membership, are writing blog posts in which they recap the Super Sessions they attended. University of Tennessee, Knoxville Economics PhD student Cora Bennett talks about Policy Analysis and Racial Justice: Are New Approaches Needed

#2020APPAM Blog: Bush Report 75 years later

Just like in previous years, students, an important part of APPAM's membership, are writing blog posts in which they recap the Super Sessions they attended. University of Tennessee, Knoxville Economics PhD student Cora Bennett talks about 75 years since the Bush Report.

#2020APPAM Registration is Closed! Passwords Sent By Email

The 42nd Annual Fall Research Conference is no longer accepting registrations! If you registered, you were sent an email on Monday 11/09 with your personalized password.

A virtual #2020APPAM still has a full slate of awards. Check out the list of all the recipients for this year's awards: APPAM/JCPA Comparative Policy Analysis Award, David N. Kershaw Award, Equity and Inclusion Fellowship, Peter H. Rossi Award, PhD Disseration Award, Raymond Vernon Memorial Award, Steven D. Gold Award, and the World Citizen Prize in Environmental Performance.

The Virtual Fall Research Conference will feature a few of the best research institutions in the United States as sponsors. Today we're spotlighting Mathematica

Dr. Robert Costrell will receive the 2020 Steven D. Gold Award

The 2020 Steven D. Gold Award recipient is Dr. Robert Costrell, whose career spans decades and success both in academia and state government. Dr. Costrell is the rare breed of scholar and public servant. The Steve Gold Award recognizes a person who has made a significant contribution to public financial management in the field of intergovernmental relations and state and local finance.

10/07 Virtual Event: Racial Justice and Graduate Education: What Are You Doing and What Could You Do?

Recent events have placed racial inequality at the forefront for all academic institutions. We want to offer a place for APPAM institutional representatives to discuss what inequality initiatives they have implemented in their own schools, hear from students about what they would like to see happen in their programs and, most importantly, we want to give an opportunity for program directors and faculty to network, discuss their experiences and get some good ideas for the future.

Member Spotlight: David Cotton, NORC

David Cotton is Vice President for Public Health at NORC at the University of Chicago, and has a very interesting job. Learn more about our member spotlight!

Announcing the 2020 Equity and Inclusion Fellows

A smaller group of Fellows will join us this year at the #2020APPAM Virtual Conference, and will also be part of the #2021APPAM Conference in Austin, TX.

Kirabo Jackson, Northwestern University Professor, will receive the 2020 David N. Kershaw Award

Dr. Jackson will be honored at the 2020 APPAM Fall Research Conference. The Award consists of a commemorative sculpture and a $20,000 cash prize.

#APPAM20INTL Plenary: Emerging from the COVID-19 Crisis: The Health Landscape of the Future

The 2020 Virtual International Conference, hosted by American University and The University of Toronto kicked off with a fascinating plenary session entitled Emerging from the COVID-19 Crisis: The Health Landscape of the Future on Thursday, July 23 2020. Moderated by Dr. Kwame McKenzie, the plenary had three outstanding panelists in Dr. Danielle Martin, Dr. Tim Grant Evans, and Dr. Abdul El Sayed.

Get Involved with the APPAM Policy Council This Year!

Nominations are now open for four positions on the Policy Council, as well as President Elect, Vice President and Treasurer!

#2020APPAM Know the Program Committee: Vivian Wong

The Wonk Talks Pandemics and Public Health with Dr. Gus. Birkhead

Episode 11 of APPAM's Public Policy Podcast is out now on the topic of Public Health Policy and the COVID-19 Pandemics

JPAM Announces Special Call for Papers on the Public Policy Implications of the COVID-19 Pandemic

As the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic, the scientific community has ramped up efforts to develop a vaccine and discover ways to slow down the spread of the virus, while treating those who already have been infected. As we begin to recover from the pandemic, policymakers and the public will urgently need information from social science research that draws policy-relevant lessons from the COVID-19 crisis.

Three-Month Dues Extensions For All Members

All APPAM members will have their membership extended for an additional three months, regardless of expiration date. For instance, if your membership expiration date is 4/16/20, you will receive all membership benefits through 7/16/20. You don't have to do anything to receive this extension. We hope this gives you peace of mind, however small, in these uncertain times.

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NEW! Student Research Online Seminar Series

APPAM's student members are very important to us. With a slew of COVID-19-related cancellations of our student programming (DC and CA Regional Student Conferences and Public Policy Camps) we have created a new series to highlight work done by our student members. Featuring the same panel format as APPAM's regular conferences, the series will be a weekly panel throughout the month of May 2020. Student research has been chosen to highlight a large breadth of areas.

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APPAM Virtual Happy Hour 4/23

Come have a virtual cocktail with Mike Shires, Associate Dean for Strategy and Special Projects Pepperdine School of Public Policy and Jodi Sandfort, Professor at University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs and incoming Dean at University of Washington's Evans School. Let's talk policy, or let's just relax. We'd love to see you! There's nothing better than happy hour where you don't have to wear shoes.

Given the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak, APPAM and University of California, Riverside leadership feels that it’s prudent to cancel the APPAM California Regional Student Conference on Monday, April 6.

2020 International Conference in Toronto Submission Deadline EXTENDED

The deadline to submit for the the 2020 International Conference in Toronto has been extended by ONE WEEK until Friday, Febuary 14, 2020!

Guest Blog: 2020, The Perfect Storm for a Focus on Health

Sara Allin, University of Toronto Assistant Professor and Alison Jacknowitz, American University SPA Senior Associate Dean, co-hosts of the 2020 APPAM International Conference in Toronto write about why 2020 turns out to be a crucial year for a health perspective in policy-making, which is also the theme of the International Conference.

Introducing APPAM's Incoming 2020 Policy Council Members

The incoming members of APPAM's Policy Council have been announced

Interview with APPAM's President-Elect Sherry Glied

Sherry Glied, Dean of New York University’s Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service is APPAM's President-Elect. We sat down with Dr. Glied to ask her about her perspective on the public policy field, APPAM and the 2020 Fall Research Conference.

Missed the #2019APPAM Pre-Conference Workshop: Deploying Machine Learning Tools for Public Policy Impact? Here is a twitter recap of the session.

APPAM is proud to announce the recipients of the inaugural World Citizen Prizes in Environmental Performance, Dr. Nathan Hultman and Dr. Gregory Nemet.

Tips for Becoming a Leader in the Field of Program and Policy Evaluation

Oct 09, 2019

It took an invitation to share my ideas on how to advance one’s career as a program/policy evaluator to get me to step back and ponder what I’ve been doing these past 35 years. Eight things came to mind, which I’ll share here, a mix of broad philosophies and specific practices. Any of these elements that speak to readers could become part of how evaluators besides myself go about plying their trades.That would be gratifying.

JPAM Forum on Gun Violence Showcases Prevention Research

On Wednesday, October 2nd, APPAM and the American University School of Public Administration hosted the JPAM Forum Preventing Gun Violence: Public Health and Public Policy Approaches, as well as a a lecture by Mathematica President and CEO, Paul Decker, entitled A New Era for Evidence: What Evaluation and Analysis Mean to Public Policy in 2020.

Five Minutes with Rob Moore - APPAM Professional Member

APPAM’s new Five Minutes with… series was introduced in March 2019 to illuminate the work of individual APPAM members and promote connections between members based on their shared interests. The opportunity to be profiled on our website and social media through these interviews is an exclusive APPAM member benefit. Enjoy this interview in the series with Rob Moore, a principal at Scioto Analysis

Russ Whitehurst to Receive 2019 Spencer Foundation Award from APPAM

The Association of Public Policy and Analysis Management (APPAM) has selected Russ Whitehurst Stony Brook University, as the recipient of the 2019 Spencer Foundation Award. The Spencer Foundation Award recognizes noteworthy contributions through research and analysis in the field of education policy and management.

JPAM Announces 2019 Raymond Vernon Memorial Award Winner

Sep 23, 2019

The Journal of Policy Analysis and Management (JPAM) is pleased to announce the winners of this year’s Raymond Vernon Memorial Award: Daphna Bassok of The University of Virginia, Thomas S. Dee of Stanford University, and Scott Latham of Princeton University for their paper: The Effects of Accountability Incentives in Early Childhood Education. The paper was first published in the Fall 2019 Issue, Volume 38, Issue 4 of JPAM.

JPAM Forum: Preventing Gun Violence: Public Health and Public Policy Approaches

APPAM and the School of Public Affairs at American University will host two public events on October 2nd, 2019. The first event is a forum that will bring experts to discuss approaches to preventing or tackling the problem of gun violence from the perspectives of public health and public policy approaches. When: October 2, 2019, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Where: American University, Kerwin Hall, Room 301 What: Preventing Gun Violence: Public Health and Public Policy Approaches

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Apply for the Mentor Match Program at #2019APPAM!

Mentoring Application Opens

Migration Policy and its Global Impacts

Household food insecurity status in the United States is ascertained by a battery of closed-ended questions. The authors, Christian A. Gregory and Travis A. Smith, posit that the monthly nature of benefit receipt from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) creates experiences of food hardship, which become salient in the context of SNAP receipt, and, in turn, exert influence on the response to food security questions.

Get Involved with the APPAM Policy Council

Have you ever considered being more involved in APPAM? One of the most rewarding ways to serve the Association is through the Policy Council. APPAM is soliciting its members for nominations to the APPAM Policy Council and for the positions of APPAM President-elect, Vice-President, and Secretary. All terms will begin in 2020.

Video: APPAM/Westat Forum - Bringing Rigor and Intentionality to Mixed Methods Evaluations

Jul 03, 2019

A day-long forum sponsored by Westat and APPAM will focus researchers on sharpening and expanding the mixed method paradigm to respond to these concerns and t enable impact evaluations to make larger contributions to policy learning. Major themes include the roles of mixed methods evaluation in explaining/understanding impact findings from randomized control trials and in strengthening quasi-experimental analytic methods to ward off selection bias.

Five Minutes with APPAM Student Member Rebecca Miller

"I realized that I loved working in environmental fields as a freshman in college. After graduation, I moved to Washington, D.C., and worked as a Science Policy Fellow for the Science and Technology Policy Institute. In supporting a project on local adaptation planning for the Obama Administration, I realized that the academic literature had only limited information as to why municipalities designed adaptation plans or even how to define a “good” adaptation plan."

May 30, 2019

We interviewed Virginia Knox, Vice President at MDRC, on the role of mixed methods research in evaluating social programs and her vision for the methodology. Knox, like her colleague Stephen Bell before her, previewed her talk well with her answers. To experience her presentation, join us at the June 5th Institutional Member Forum, which will be presented at Heart House (2400 N St NW in Washington, DC's Dupont Circle neighborhood).

#APPAMWestat Speaker Interview: Stephen Bell

May 22, 2019

We interviewed Stephen Bell, Head of Evaluation Research at Westat, on where he and the research community at large stand on the matter of qualitative vs. quantitative research. Bell gives us much to consider in anticipation of his talk at the June 5th Institutional Member Forum, which will be presented at Heart House (2400 N St NW in Washington, DC's DuPont Circle neighborhood).

Five Minutes with Mariam Khan - APPAM Student Member

APPAM’s new Five Minutes with… series was introduced in March 2019 to illuminate the work of individual APPAM members and promote connections between members based on their shared interests. The opportunity to be profiled on our website and social media through these interviews is an exclusive APPAM member benefit. Enjoy this first interview in the series with Matthew Kraft, a Brown professor and father of two with aspirations to photograph Petra.

APPAM Student Member Update - April 2019

Student Member news and opportunities for April 2019.

APPAM Institutional Member Update - April 2019

New literature and opportunities for Institutional Members over the coming weeks and months of 2019.

Apr 05, 2019

American University Political Science student Stephanie Blenko shares notes from the Grant Writing Workshop presented at APPAM's Regional Student Conference in Washington, DC on March 29, 2019.

Demystifying the Fall Research Conference Selection Process

Mar 28, 2019

In this third entry for our 2019 Leadership Blog Series, Tristanne Staudt - newly-appointed to the position of APPAM Deputy Executive Director, Operations - debunks the myth that getting your proposal accepted for our Fall Research Conferences is nearly possible Read Tristanne's article for tips about how to be competitive in the submissions process and reasons to be optimistic that you can find your place at #2019APPAM.

Play the APPAM/ASHEcon March 20 Webinar

Mar 22, 2019

ASHEcon and APPAM experts discuss the rising cost of drugs, how it will impact healthcare policy, what is currently being done to address this issue, and what future steps policy makers and researchers can take to alleviate the impact of rising prescription drug costs.

APPAM Student Member Update - March 2019

Mar 21, 2019

Student Members: Learn about APPAM's final preparations for the Regional Student Conferences and take a look ahead at other 2019 opportunities for APPAM student members.

APPAM Institutional Member Update - March 2019

Mar 21, 2019

For Institutional Members: Share ideas and research with APPAM this Spring at events and through surveys.

APPAM Professional Member Update - March 2019

Mar 21, 2019

Highlights for Professional members: Spring at APPAM means forums, the final weeks for Fall Research Conference submissions, and the opening of registration for two conferences.

The Next Generation of APPAM

Feb 27, 2019

This second entry for our 2019 Leadership Blog Series sees APPAM President Matt Stagner, Director of Mathematica Policy Research's Chicago office, discussing students as the future of public policy. What opportunities exist for that segment at APPAM, and how can seasoned public policy professionals support them? Matt explains here.

On Becoming a Fixture at APPAM Student Events

Feb 25, 2019

University of Denver PhD student Alex Osei-Kojo shares five reasons why he makes a special effort to attend APPAM conferences. How much common ground do you share with him?

APPAM Institutional Member Forum - Bringing Rigor and Intentionality to Mixed Methods Evaluations of Social Programs

Feb 24, 2019

A day-long forum sponsored by Westat and APPAM will focus researchers on sharpening and expanding the mixed method paradigm to respond to these concerns and t enable impact evaluations to make larger contributions to policy learning. Major themes include the roles of mixed methods evaluation in explaining/understanding impact findings from randomized control trials and in strengthening quasi-experimental analytic methods to ward off selection bias.

APPAM Institutional Member Forum - Career Pathways Programs: What We Know and Where We Should Go From Here

Feb 22, 2019

This forum aims to bring together researchers, government, practitioners, and the policy community to examine the state of knowledge, including recent rigorous evaluations, priorities for future research, and implications for policy and practice. The intended audience is in line with APPAM’s core membership of professionals interested in the policy and practice of workforce development strategies, particularly for low-income individuals. Details appear in the full article.

APPAM In Conversation with Obama Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr.

Feb 21, 2019

In the weeks following his keynote address at the #2018APPAM Equity & Inclusion Luncheon, Obama Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr. participated in an interview with APPAM. In this interview, he discusses his recommendations for the Trump administration, ideas for making college more accessible to underserved students, partnerships between educators and policymakers against recent waves of hate, the advancement of evidence-based policy research, and his own idols.

Register for the March 20th ASHEcon/APPAM Webinar

Feb 19, 2019

Join ASHEcon and APPAM experts as they discuss the rising cost of drug pricing, how it will impact healthcare policy, what is currently being done to address this issue, and what future steps policy makers and researchers can take to alleviate the impact of rising prescription drug costs.

APPAM Student Member Update - February 2019

Feb 19, 2019

Learn more about our upcoming Student Conferences, our student members' news and other student-oriented happenings in this February 2019 Update.

APPAM Institutional Member Update - February 2019

Feb 19, 2019

Our February 2019 Institutional Member Update contains valuable information about our upcoming Spring and Fall Conferences as well as member news.

APPAM Professional Member Update - February 2019

Feb 19, 2019

Read the latest information about conferences, publishing opportunities, and members in our February 2019 Professional Member Update.

JPAM Special Call for Papers - Crime and Criminal Justice Policy

Feb 11, 2019

JPAM also has a Special Call for Papers in Crime and Criminal Justice Policy. Submissions will be considered immediately and will continue to be considered under this call until September 1, 2019. View the link for more information.

JPAM Special Call for Papers - New Directions in Academic-Practitioner Research Collaborations

Feb 11, 2019

ATTN Academic-Practitioners in Public Policy: The JPAM Special Call for Papers is here! View the link to submit for "New Directions in Academic-Practitioner Research Collaborations."

APPAM Announces Retired Member Category

Feb 05, 2019

APPAM will now offer a “Retired Member” option for individuals that are no longer working and wish to remain active in the public policy community.

Fall Research Conference Submissions Being Accepted

Feb 04, 2019

Jan 14, 2019

The Policy Council is APPAM's governing board and is responsible for setting policy and creating strategy for the Association. It currently consists of four elected cohorts serving staggered, four-year terms of office. Ballots were sent to all APPAM members and voting was held December 10, 2018 through January 10, 2019. Please welcome our incoming Policy Council.

Grants from the National Collaborative on Gun Violence Research

Jan 08, 2019

The National Collaborative on Gun Violence Research is offering $10 million in grants for nonpartisan, scientific research that offers the public and policymakers a factual basis for developing fair and effective gun policies. Learn more at http://ncgvr.org.

What Interventions Work Best for Families Who Experience Homelessness? Impact Estimates from the Family Options Study | JPAM Featured Article

Jan 07, 2019

In the United States, families with children represent about one-third of the 1.4 million people who experience sheltered homelessness each year. This paper presents findings from the Family Options Study, the first large-scale randomized trial to investigate the effects of interventions for families who experience homelessness. The study compares priority access to three types of programs with assignment to a usual care group that did not receive priority access to any type of program.

Student Member Update - December 2018

Dec 18, 2018

APPAM's December 2018 Student Member Update features information about our Regional student conferences, a featured blog article, member news and more.

Professional Member Update - December 2018

Submit your research for this premier education, networking, and career development conference, scheduled for March 29-30, 2019 at American University in Washington, DC. Information about who should submit and how they should submit follows along with several important deadlines.

Student Member Update - November 2018

Nov 28, 2018

APPAM's November 2018 Student Member Update features a look ahead to 2019, information about a student seat opening on our Policy Council, a tribute to #2018APPAM award recipients, and more.

Professional Member Update - November 2018

Nov 28, 2018

APPAM's November 2018 Professional Member Update includes member news, information about upcoming conferences, a featured JPAM article, and more.

Institutional Rep Update - November 2018

Nov 28, 2018

The Peter M. Rossi Award Lecture, given by Mark Lipsey of Vanderbilt University, was structured into three parts: One on the context of pre-K education, one on the actual Tennessee pre-K study, and another one on the issues, exploration, and policy implications of major findings. The program presented numerous insights on education policy from several universities.

David N. Kershaw Award Lecture: What Does Education Do?

Nov 09, 2018

David Deming, Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University, and recipient of the Kershaw Award, discussed the importance of expanding access to high quality post-secondary education in the United States. In considering the impact of education, the lecture focused on the long-run impacts of early interventions, school finance reform and impacts of spending on long-run outcomes, the role of teachers and classrooms, charter schools, and school quality.

Super Session: 40 Years of Evidence for Action at APPAM and in the Field

Nov 09, 2018

Five leaders in the evidence based research in public policy space convened on this panel to discuss industry evolution and their experiences with it. The recurring message of the panel was big data and how to properly use it. Data mining and data analysis applications have become standard fair for public policy solutions. The panel, with the sum of over a century of experience, gave their take on how they have navigated this new era of policy making.

Systematic Reviews: The Next Step in Evidence-Based Policy Analysis?

Nov 08, 2018

Following the theme for this year’s #2018APPAM Fall Research Conference: Evidence for Action: Encouraging Innovation and Improvement, this session examined the role of systematic reviews in evidence-based policymaking. The moderator, Douglas Besharov, from the University of Maryland, introduced the session with the question: “Is it time for a more sophisticated approach to systematic reviews?” There were four speakers who provided separate responses.

Values in Education: Implications for Policy and Practice

Nov 08, 2018

Values in Education: Implications for Policy and Practice, a session presented the first official day of #2018APPAM, focused on the role of values in educational policymaking, basing the discussion on a recent publication entitled “Educational Goods: Values, Evidence and Decision-making.”

Preconference Day at #2018APPAM

Nov 08, 2018

APPAM kicked off four days of education, mentorship and networking yesterday at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park with several very informative Preconference programs. Speaker highlights included thought leaders from the Urban Institute such as David Connell, Stu Kantor, Bridget Lowell, Jon Schwabish, and Kate Villarreal. The official conference began today with a Fun Run and continues into Saturday.

Know Before You Go - APPAM Fall 2018 Research Conference

Nov 05, 2018

Our Know Before You Go contains some helpful information we wanted to share with you before you arrive so you may make the most of your experience at #2018APPAM.

BPC Obtains Documents Revealing Labor Dept Cut Funds for Program Evaluation

The Bipartisan Policy Center obtained documents through the Freedom of Information Act that reveal the Department of Labor sharply cut funding for evaluating whether its programs are operating effectively. The documents show the Labor Department quietly slashed the amount of funding it transfers to its chief evaluation officer for this fiscal year’s program evaluation to $2 million. That compares with $13 million and $27 million for use in prior fiscal years 2018 and 2017, respectively.

Our Conference Theme Emphasizes the Need to Use Research and Evidence at Every Stage of the Policy Process | APPAM Leadership Blog Series

Oct 18, 2018

For me, fall is a refreshing season of new beginnings. Our member universities are back in full swing, students are launching into their research for the academic year, and the fall conference is just around the corner. I am proud of our conference theme this year, Evidence for Action: Encouraging Innovation and Improvement. The programming emphasizes the need to use research and evidence at every stage of the policy process.

Scholars from the University at Albany, Abt Associates, Vanderbilt, and Westat Earn the PhD and Vernon Awards

Oct 04, 2018

University at Albany alumnus Garima Siwach has been selected to receive the PhD Dissertation Award. Authors from Abt Associates, Vanderbilt University, and Westat have been selected as recipients of the Raymond Vernon Memorial Award for a paper published in the Fall 2018 issue of the Journal of Pubic Policy Analysis and Management. Both awards will be presented during the new Membership and Awards Breakfast on Friday, November 9, at the Fall Research Conference.

Sep 14, 2018

The proliferation of new digital data sources and the development of new programming languages that can quickly make sense of these data are changing the nature of how public policy makers and the general public understand how government works – and when it doesn’t. This discussion focused on the road ahead for data and social science, how to communicate better when the lanes merge, and what this all means for getting to better-informed policies and programs that improve public well-being.

Harvard and Vanderbilt Professors Receive the David N. Kershaw Award and Peter H. Rossi Award

Harvard University professor David J. Deming has been selected to receive the David N. Kershaw Award and Prize for his contributions to the field of public policy analysis and management. Professor Mark W. Lipsey of Vanderbilt University has been selected to receive the Peter H. Rossi Award for contributions to the theory or practice of program evaluation. Dr. Deming and Dr. Lipsey will be honored at the 2018 APPAM Fall Research Conference in Washington, DC, this November.

Are There Hidden Costs Associated with Conducting Layoffs? The Impact of Reduction-in-Force and Layoff Notices on Teacher Effectiveness | JPAM Featured Article

Sep 07, 2018

The Great Recession of 2008 led to widespread layoffs in both the public and private sectors. While there is a literature of empirical work that shows the direct costs of such employment reductions, there is little work that examines the less obvious consequences associated with layoffs and the process through which layoffs occur. The authors show that the negative impacts of the layoff process on teacher productivity are driven by the process’ effects on teachers’ job commitment.

Join us at the first ever CA Student Happy Hour on 9/27

Join us for an APPAM Student Happy Hour at The Garage! This venue features an old school pub, outdoor patio space, a full bar, great cocktails and wine, and upscale pub food. APPAM will provide appetizers, beer, and wine. Some long-time professional members will be in attendance to provide general research or career insight to students.

The Wonk Policy Podcast: The Shale Dilemma with Shanti Gamper-Rabindran

Aug 14, 2018

Dr. Shanti Gamper-Rabindran from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Pittsburgh talks about her new book, The Shale Dilemma: A Global Perspective on Fracking and Shale Development.

Build Community and Confidence for Early-Career Scholars through the 40 for 40 Fellowship

Aug 13, 2018

The 40 for 40 Fellowship is an opportunity for young researchers, like me, to have a platform to use their voice and to gain the support of a community. You are building confidence not only in the individual but are helping to ensure that the field remains diverse. Think about your perspectives on policy and what made you passionate about it. Representation matters and you have the chance through the 40 for 40 Fellowship to provide another researcher the opportunity to share their story.

APPAM is the Natural Place to Encourage New Scholars in our Field | APPAM Leadership Blog Series

Aug 02, 2018

I can still remember my first APPAM presentation in 1993 like it was yesterday. It was at 8 am on a Friday and all six of the panel members were from the West Coast, so we were bleary-eyed and tired. On my panel was a former university system provost, two leading scholars on higher ed governance, the President and CEO of the leading national nonprofit, a senior economist from a renowned think tank, and me—a graduate student at the RAND Graduate School. What an amazing opportunity!

The 2018 International Conference Was Truly Focused on the Theme and Location

Jul 31, 2018

The conference was filled with great papers on vulnerable populations, new initiatives in cities, and sustainable development. I even chaired a session on public management and government sustainability. It was truly focused on the theme of Public Policy for Sustainable Metropolitan Development, with almost half of all papers mentioning “city” or “urban” or “metropolitan” in their titles.

Request for Proposals: Innovation Lounge at the Fall Research Conference

Jul 30, 2018

The 40th Anniversary of the Fall Research Conference is a great opportunity to innovate and we invite our attendees to do just that with the Innovation Lounge. Submit a proposal, due September 28. One of the most valuable and critical aspects of the annual Fall Research Conferences are the impromptu conversations attendees have in the hallways, after a session or over lunch, about a project they’re working on or an idea that they have been kicking around and would like some feedback on.

2018 International Conference Attendee Survey

Jul 27, 2018

Thank you for a great conference in Mexico City! Attendees, please complete this short post-conference survey. Your feedback helps us plan and improve future International Conference. Thank you in advance!

July 2018 Professional Member Update

Jul 20, 2018

Fall Conference Registration, Fellowship Announcements, and New JPAM Editor.

July 2018 Student Member Update

Jul 20, 2018

Fall Conference Registration, Fellowship Announcements, and Mentorship Program.

July 2018 Institutional Representative Update

Jul 20, 2018

Fall Conference Registration, Conference Opportunities, and New JPAM Editor.

Registration is Open for the 2018 Fall Research Conference

Jul 16, 2018

The 2018 APPAM Fall Research Conference will celebrate APPAM's 40th conference on November 8 - 10 at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park in Washington, DC. This year's event will focus on improving programs and policies by generating and engaging with evidence throughout the policy analysis and management process.

Government Data is a National Treasure | APPAM Leadership Blog Series

Jun 07, 2018

APPAM has always supported government data. Having worked for 25 years in the Federal Statistical System, I have seen first-hand the importance of high quality data and the direct influence it has on government policy. And this is only possible because of sufficient funding, leadership, and dedicated staff.

Rigorous Policy Research Has Never Been More Important

Jun 06, 2018

Support the meaningful work of early career professionals through the 40 for 40 Fellowship. The essential work from these scholars will shape the future of public policy research. Our goal is to provide opportunities to grow their professional networks and share their research with the broader policy audience.

Spotlight: Syracuse University Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs

Jun 05, 2018

The Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, an APPAM institutional member, is Syracuse University’s home for scholars doing research on public policy matters such as taxation, education finance, and aging. Significantly, Maxwell houses both Syracuse University’s professional degree programs and its scholarly, PhD-bearing departments in public affairs and in the social sciences (e.g., anthropology, economics, political science, sociology, geography).

May 2018 Professional Member Update

May 18, 2018

Sustainable Development in Mexico City, 2018 Awards, and DACA Webinar.

May 2018 Institutional Representative Update

May 18, 2018

Student Fellowship, Public Policy Camp Proposals, and Meeting Minutes.

May 2018 Student Member Update

May 18, 2018

Equity and Inclusion Fellowship, Student PD Sessions, and DACA Webinar.

Equity and Inclusion Fellowship Deadline Approaching

May 16, 2018

As part of APPAM's commitment to an inclusive public policy field, the Equity & Inclusion Fellowship supports the participation of up to 40 students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds at the 2018 Fall Research Conference. The goal of this fellowship program is to introduce recipients to the world of public policy and APPAM, and foster lifelong engagement. Don't miss this important opportunity! The application deadline is May 25th.

Leaning On and Learning From Our Sister Associations | APPAM Leadership Blog Series

May 14, 2018

As an applied microeconomist who studies the causes and consequences of a range of public policies, I have always felt like APPAM is my primary intellectual home. Part of this fondness goes back to my first experiences at the Fall Research Conferences in the early 2000's. A core group of scholars studying policy issues related to sexual minorities would organize a research session each year. Relative to those first few years of mostly empty rooms, we have come a long way.

Watch the DACA Webinar on Policy, Community, and Global Implications

May 10, 2018

What are the effects of the current DACA instability on families? Communities? What does the legal fight mean for immigration globally? What are the politics of the issue? What does the research say? APPAM experts answer these questions, as well as address the issue of how to inform policymakers grappling with the effects of the policy within their own communities.

Duke/APPAM Opioid Forum Focused on Effective Partnerships and Data

May 07, 2018

Opioid misuse is a major epidemic across the nation. Local and state officials bear the burden of responses to the epidemic and need assistance coordinating research and resources. The Institutional Member Forum, held on on May 1, 2018, and hosted by Duke Policy Bridge at the Sanford School of Public Policy and APPAM, connected the worlds of research and policy across this escalating public health epidemic.

Join Colleagues in Mexico City for the APPAM International Conference

May 02, 2018

Apr 17, 2018

Sustainable Development in Mexico City, 2018 Awards, and APPAM/Duke Opioid Forum.

Nominate Your Colleague for the 40 for 40 Fellowship at #2018APPAM

Apr 17, 2018

Do you have a young colleague doing outstanding work as a newer professional? APPAM has established the 40 for 40 Fellowship to build on recent efforts to provide more support, resources, and opportunities for younger professionals. This 2018 program will provide funding for 40 outstanding young research professionals to attend the 40th Annual Fall Research Conference.

We cover a lot of important policy topics at APPAM—this one on the opioid crisis is particularly meaningful | APPAM Leadership Blog Series

I know a lot about opioids. More than your average joe, anyway. As an idealistic college grad in the late 1990’s, I was positive that social work was the path for me. I wanted to get some direct service experience, then go into an Masters of Social Work program and go about my merry way, trying to make a difference in the world. We cover a lot of important policy research and issues at APPAM—but this one is particularly meaningful.

Using Social Media to Promote Your Research at the DC Regional Student Conference

The lunch workshop introduced graduate scholars to social media’s role in promoting their academic research, and to demonstrate networking and career development opportunities online. Panelists explored general tips on how to overcome fears of having a social media presence, as well as the skills and strategies needed to extrapolate scholarly research for networking and professional opportunities.

Public Policy Camp is an initiative to introduce the field of public policy to a group of students who might not otherwise be familiar with it, as well as increase the pipeline of diverse students into APPAM institutional member graduate public policy and public affairs schools. APPAM is requesting proposals from institutional members to host the 2018 event.

March 2018 Professional Member Update

Mar 07, 2018

This year we're doing something different. In recent years, APPAM has consistently developed more resources and opportunities for our student and younger professional members. To build on that momentum as we celebrate our 40th Annual Fall Research Conference, APPAM introduces the 40 for 40 Fellowship. This 2018-exclusive program will provide funding for 40 outstanding young research professionals to attend the Fall Conference.

Submit Your Research for the 2018 Fall Research Conference

Feb 06, 2018

The 2018 conference will emphasize the iterative and collaborative nature of building evidence. We aim to engage researchers, policy makers, and program leaders in thoughtful discussions about how best to collect data, capture innovation, measure impacts, and identify actionable and timely recommendations. All submissions are due by April 11, 2018.

Jan 03, 2018

Submit abstracts for the 2018 California Regional Student Conference and gain valuable research presentation experience, as well as receive important feedback from academics, practitioners, and other students. Deadline: January 10.