The Division of Reserach and Outreach at the Center for Public Policy leads the effort to create effective public policy in Virginia by connecting local and state policymakers to academic experts within VCU through the Translational Research Fellows Program. It also conducts public policy polls multiple times per year to provide policymakers and the public with an up-to-date snapshot of public opinion in Virginia, and engages in community outreach activities with Girl Scouts, homeschool groups, Rotary Clubs, and others.
Multiple times a year, our Wilder School Commonwealth Poll provides insights into key Virginia policy topics. Our Winter 2020-2021 poll surveyed 827 adult Virginians in policy areas including race and social equity, approval of the state budget, and the coronavirus pandemic. Results can be found on our Wilder School Commonwealth Poll page.
Each year, the Translational Research Fellows (TRF) program works with faculty members from across VCU to translate their research into public policies for the commonwealth. Selected faculty receive one-on-one mentoring as they develop an outreach plan for their specific area of research. Visit the TRF page to learn more.
Through the CompassPoint podcast we explore a variety of public policy-related topics, including planning, data analysis, land use, leadership development, policy and program evaluation, and more.
Episode 1: The MetroView data system
Episode 2: Why evaluate? A deeper look at the types and benefits of program evaluation
Episode 3: Leading with Grace - A reflection on 20 years of The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute
Episode 4: Putting your research to work with the Translational Research Fellows program
Episode 5: Health inequities and the coronavirus pandemic
Episode 6: Research that Makes an Impact - A Conversation with Dr. Hayley Cleary
Episode 7: New questions and exciting opportunities in the field of cybersecurity
Episode 8: PASA provides opportunities and connections for Wilder School students
Episode 9: Research Opportunities for Wilder School students
Episode 10: Promoting Civic Literacy and Engagement: A Conversation with Dr. Anthony Starke
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