My Research
Despite the high levels of opportunity and mobility in our society, there are certain populations that continually find themselves at the bottom of the social stratification ladder with marginal improvement in their position over time. Often, these populations are characterized as racial/ethnic minorities and those of lower socio-economic status. Our government institutes various public programs in an attempt to level the playing field so that opportunities for success are more equally distributed for all constituents; however, in many instances, program administrators concentrate too heavily on the efficient distribution of goods and services and make insufficient consideration for the fundamental structural and social issues that lie at the core of the disparities.
Within this context, my research agenda lies at the intersection of medical sociology, public administration and public health. More specifically, I am interested in the efficacy of public policy initiatives and structures, especially as it relates to the most vulnerable populations intended to utilize the services or programs. As a student of business management and non-profit administration, as well as a former community health center administrator, I recognize the need for synergy between intention and outcomes when assessing the effectiveness of public programs. The goal of my research is to highlight best practices in the implementation of public programs that successfully balance the needs of communities with the responsibilities of public administrators to effectively administer public programs and funds. Many of these efforts also depend on administrations’ ability to communicate with and meet the needs of increasingly diverse constituencies and employees, especially as institutionalized racism has recently been named as a major public health issue plaguing the United States. My research projects explore the gap between equality and equity in public service initiatives and highlight the administrative pitfalls of failing to recognize this difference.
“…balance the needs of communities with the responsibilities of public administrators…”
Current Projects
DEI and the Municipal Manager: Critical Contexts and Best Practices
Study of the dearth of racial diversity at the municipal manager level despite increasing demographic diversity in suburban and rural communities. This mixed method analysis measures the extent and implications of this demographic mismatch within the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion programmatic progress in local government.
The Effect of Proximal Geographic Community Health Center Access on Having a Regular Source of Health Care
Qualitative study measuring the proximal effect of community health center access on the likelihood of medically-vulnerable individuals having a primary care provider and/or a regular place of care.
Opioid Use Disorder Treatment and the Role of Transportation
Study of the role of transportation in the state-funded treatment of opioid disorder in Pennsylvania and how it contributes to disparate outcomes for vulnerable populations.