On Friday, April 26th, 33 new students joined the Graduate Policy Scholars program. These talented scholars have demonstrated a passion for driving positive change and dedication to policy scholarship that makes them invaluable additions to the GPS network. Comprising diverse backgrounds and expertise, this new cohort embodies the program’s commitment to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and innovative approaches to addressing complex societal challenges.
The event was commemorated with keynote remarks by Ellicia Lanier, Executive Director of Urban Sprouts Child Development Center and Clark-Fox Policy Institute Scholar-in-Residence, who shared her top five recommendations for the students as they begin their careers as social workers and public health professionals. She encouraged the students to build trust through transparency, embrace a spirit of lifelong learning, use equity as their guiding star, and practice self-relection. But most important, she said, is to listen—truly listen—to the voices of the community. “Especially when working in communities where residents may not look or think like you, it is essential to understand the value of the lived experiences of community members. Engage with them as partners in the process. By valuing and incorporating their input, you empower individuals and validate their experiences, fostering a collaborative and respectful atmosphere that can lead to transformative outcomes,” Lanier concluded.
More pictures of the celebration are below. Please join us in congratulating the newest members of our community!
