L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs

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Professor and program head, Criminal Justice, Reynolds Community College; Founder, Street Smartz Over Safety
News / October 3, 2024

Alumnus Dre'mon Miller ('15 B.S.) recognized with VCU 10 Under 10 award

VCU Alumni’s 10 Under 10 awards program recognizes the noteworthy and distinctive achievements made by alumni who earned their first VCU degree (undergraduate, graduate or professional) within the past 10 years.

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Kamala Harris holds a narrow lead over Donald Trump in Virginia, as the latest Commonwealth Poll shows economic concerns and independent voters shaping the race.
News / October 2, 2024

Kamala Harris’ edge over Donald Trump slips slightly as she leads 43% to 37% in Virginia

Kamala Harris leads Donald Trump 43% to 37% in Virginia, according to the latest Commonwealth Poll from VCU’s Wilder School. The gap has narrowed as economic concerns remain the top voter priority (33%). Trump leads Harris among Independents 29% to 16%, with 19% undecided. Voters also favor Trump on handling the economy (42% to 38%), while Harris is more trusted on reproductive rights (49% to 23%). With early voting underway, turnout will be critical.

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Jason Burkett, Senior Consultant at the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy, engages with state agency leaders during a discussion on collaborative solutions to shared challenges.
News / October 2, 2024

CPP Summit Fosters Collaborative Solutions for Virginia State Agency Leaders

State agency leaders recently convened for a summit hosted by VCU’s Wilder School Center for Public Policy. The gathering focused on addressing shared challenges like employee recruitment, leadership transitions, and employee retention. Through structured discussions, participants generated actionable strategies to improve recruitment efforts, streamline leadership transitions, and enhance employee retention across state agencies.

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Distinguished panelists at the 2024 Wilder Symposium discuss the future of American democracy. From left: Wilder School Dean Dr. Susan Gooden, Governor L. Douglas Wilder, political analyst Dr. Bob Holsworth, UVA’s Dr. Larry Sabato, and Wilder School's Dr. Robyn McDougle.
News / September 19, 2024

Wilder Symposium 2024: The fragile state of democracy and the role of leadership

As the nation heads into one of the most pivotal election years in modern history, the Wilder Symposium hosted by the VCU Wilder School on September 17 brought together some of the brightest minds in political analysis to break down what’s really at stake. Governor L. Douglas Wilder, along with analysts Bob Holsworth and Larry Sabato, took a hard look at the shifting political landscape and the critical role of voter engagement.

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Ben Teresa, associate professor of urban and regional planning and director of the RVA Eviction Lab, discusses the rising eviction crisis during the Wilder School Lunch and Learn series on September 18.
News / September 19, 2024

Takeaways: Wilder School Lunch and Learn on Virginia’s Eviction Crisis

Our September Wilder School Lunch and Learn tackled the growing crisis of eviction in Virginia, exploring how rising rent costs and informal evictions are threatening housing stability across the state. Featuring insights from housing policy expert Ben Teresa, director of the RVA Eviction Lab, the session delved into the broader impacts of eviction on and called for policy changes, including rent stabilization. Get the overview from our recap or watch the full discussion on our YouTube channel.

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A new poll from the VCU Wilder School reveals Kamala Harris leading Donald Trump by 10 points in Virginia as voters prepare for the 2024 election.
News / September 11, 2024

Kamala Harris leads Donald Trump 46% to 36% in Virginia, Cost of living is the top concern for voters (38%) heading into election season

A new poll from the VCU Wilder School reveals Kamala Harris leading Donald Trump by 10 points in Virginia as voters prepare for the 2024 election. With the cost of living cited as the top concern by 38% of voters, the poll also highlights a near tie in voter trust over economic leadership between Harris and Trump. Governor L. Douglas Wilder comments on how Harris’s stance on reproductive rights has resonated with voters. Full results and analysis available.

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Just under half of Virginians (49%) agree that the history of race should be a required course in colleges and universities in the Virginia.
News / August 9, 2024

Wilder School Commonwealth Poll: 75% of Virginians agree history of race should be taught in K-12 schools and a high percentage of Virginians agree VCU President Michael Rao should provide public accounting of money spent on real-estate development

When asked about Israel’s military actions in Gaza, the most common sentiment is that Israel was justified in taking military action in Gaza, but it has now gone too far (39%)

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A VCU-led project that will provide a range of services for people with substance use disorders and co-occurring mental illnesses who are involved in the criminal justice system. (Getty Images)
News / August 2, 2024

Project ReConnect to support individuals involved in criminal justice system who have substance use and mental health needs

With a $2 million federal grant, the VCU-led initiative will support Chesterfield County Jail and community re-entry programs, as well as create student internships.

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Jill Desjean, a senior policy analyst at the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, is a leading expert on FAFSA and the implications of recent changes for students and parents.
News / July 30, 2024

Financial aid expert Jill Desjean explains the consequences and challenges of Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) changes

What are the ripple effects of recent changes to the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) program? How are these challenges affecting students, families and educational institutions?  Jill Desjean, a senior policy analyst at the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, shared her expertise during a recent Wilder School Lunch and Learn virtual presentation entitled: “FAFSA: Complications and Implications.”

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A new study by Charity Scott, an assistant professor of public administration at the Wilder School, published in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, reveals how philanthropic practices often perpetuate racial inequities, urging a shift towards more inclusive and equitable funding strategies.
News / August 28, 2024

Challenging philanthropic whiteness: Addressing racial inequities in funding public and nonprofit organizations

A new study by Charity Scott, an assistant professor of public administration at the Wilder School, published in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: An International Journal, reveals how philanthropic practices often perpetuate racial inequities, urging a shift towards more inclusive and equitable funding strategies.

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Elsie Harper-Anderson is an associate professor of urban and regional planning at VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, specializing in minority entrepreneurship and systemic challenges to entrepreneurial growth. Her research has been funded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Chicago Urban League.
News / July 25, 2024

A turning point for entrepreneurial diversity: Elsie Harper-Anderson on the impact of the Fearless Fund ruling

Last month, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit temporarily blocked the Fearless Fund from awarding grants to Black women entrepreneurs, sparking debate over race-conscious programs. The ruling significantly impacts corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, with venture capital funding for Black and Latina women dropping below 1%. In this Q&A, Elsie Harper-Anderson discusses the ruling's impacts and strategies for designing resilient programs.

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111 days before Election Day, President Joe Biden trails former President Trump in Virginia 39% to 36%.
News / July 16, 2024

Former President Donald Trump leads President Joe Biden by 3 points in Virginia, with Biden’s approval level among commonwealth voters at 36%

Cost of living remains the top issue impacting voting, with reproductive rights ranking second. 111 days before Election Day, President Joe Biden trails former President Trump in Virginia 39% to 36%. 36% of voters approve of Biden's job as president.

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On June 19, NEH participants meet with public historian Ana Edwards at the site of the historic Lumpkin's Slave Jail in Richmond to explore its history.
News / July 11, 2024

Towards a people’s history of landscape: The National Endowment for the Humanities program facilitates Richmond geography as a critical window to the past

Through “understanding history by centering people and communities in place,” a Wilder School-hosted summer program connects higher education scholars to Richmond geography.

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Summer Academy students gather with Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden, Chandler Holeman and alumna and Policy Pathways CEO Dr. Pulane Lucas, Ph.D. '13. (Front row left to right) Credit: Stafford Armstead C it/Create One
News / July 10, 2024

Policy Pathways and VCU Wilder School celebrate students' accomplishments at a Summer Academy capstone showcase

“Policy Pathways’ work connects high school, community college and early college students from all communities and backgrounds to the vital work of public servants. Public service is a bold and noble profession. Policy Pathways uncovers talented future leaders through their outstanding programs, of which we are a proud supporter."

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Wilder Fellows Destiny Brown and Addie Alexander have worked alongside Wilder School Center for Public Policy staffers across a range of projects.
News / July 9, 2024

Wilder Fellows stand out as students, researchers, and policy experts

A longstanding program pairs students with employers around the Richmond region each year including nonprofits, government agencies and businesses.

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According to the American Journal of Public Health, an inability to receive an abortion directly correlates to increased poverty and worsening of physical health outcomes.
News / July 2, 2024

Two years after the overturn of Roe v. Wade, inequities in women’s health intensify for the most vulnerable

A recent Wilder School Lunch and Learn virtual presentation highlights the profound consequences of the Dobbs decision, unequal outcomes and potential strategies to address ensuing healthcare challenges.

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The mission of Policy Pathways is to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals that desire to excel in policy studies and public administration degree programs and those who seek leadership positions in the public and private sectors.
News / June 25, 2024

Meet Policy Pathways’ 2024 Summer Academy participants

Meet members of the 2024 session of the Summer Academy, co-hosted by Policy Pathways and VCU's Wilder School.

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The mission of Policy Pathways is to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals that desire to excel in policy studies and public administration degree programs and those who seek leadership positions in the public and private sectors. The 2024 session of the Summer Academy will run June 23 - July 6, 2024.
News / June 13, 2024

Policy Pathways and VCU Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs co-sponsor 2024 Summer Academy in Public Policy

The Summer Academy opens with the Public Policy Forum: "Death In Custody: The Implications of Accountability and Transparency for The Criminal Justice System."

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Congratulations to the Virginia Executive Institute Class of 2024!
News / June 12, 2024

Virginia’s top public service leadership program continues a tradition of excellence and problem-solving

The Virginia Executive Institute, a leadership-building program for state government, welcomes its newest graduates from the Spring 2024 class.

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Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., dean and professor of the Wilder School, is an internationally recognized expert on social equity and most recently released
News / June 12, 2024

Navigating Nervousness" - Wilder School dean addresses racial equity in government at federal webinar

In a recent webinar hosted by Race Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing racial justice, Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden tackled a topic that’s often tiptoed around in government circles: racial equity. The event, part of Race Forward's Federal Initiative to Govern for Racial Equity (FIRE), provided a platform for Gooden to discuss the pervasive nervousness that surrounds racial equity discussions in government settings.

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Cathryn Coffey and Emily Csukardi with Discovery Advising, a unit of University Academic Advising, and Steph Vennetti, director of the Wilder School Academic Advising, led the Discovery Camp retreat. (Left to right).)
News / June 6, 2024

Discovery Camp establishes bonds – and refines visions – for VCU students who have yet to declare majors

Wilder School director of academic advising Steph Vennetti joins forces with VCU RecWell for an outdoor weekend retreat at Rice Rivers Center for a dozen undergraduates.

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Wilder School faculty member Saltanat ‘Salta’ Liebert has received a contract for $114,832 from the Office of New Americans at the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) to conduct a needs assessment to identify barriers to the integration of immigrants in Virginia.
News / May 24, 2024

Identifying opportunities to improve immigrants’ lives in the commonwealth

What are the key barriers that limit immigrants’ successful integration in Virginia, and how can they be eliminated? It’s a multifaceted challenge that associate professor Saltanat Liebert, Ph.D., discussed during a virtual Wilder School Lunch and Learn presentation entitled,  “Immigrants in Virginia: Opportunities and Challenges.”

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Sean Sukol and Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden at the Wilder School Student Awards Ceremony, April 18, 2024. Sukol proudly received his Master's Degree in Public Administration this spring.
News / May 22, 2024

Class of 2024: Sean Sukol’s journey from policy to public service

Growing up in Springfield, Virginia, Sean Sukol never imagined the winding path that would lead him to become a champion of public service and an advocate for education reform. His hard work and persistence have earned him the Wilder School’s Public Administration Outstanding Public Service Award, and on May 12, he was awarded a master’s degree in public administration.

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A group photo of Wilder School MURP faculty and guest speaker Timothy Beatley.
News / May 17, 2024

50 years strong: Master of Urban and Regional planning program builds to the future

The MURP program celebrates 50 years and Plan-Off! student competition envisions community innovation

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The April edition of our Wilder School Lunch and Learn series, held on April 17,  featured L.F. Payne, former U.S. Representative for Virginia and president of the United States Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC).
News / May 1, 2024

Building Bridges Beyond Capitol Hill: L.F. Payne on the Ongoing Work of Former Members of Congress

In the April edition of our Wilder School Lunch and Learn series, we got a glimpse of the intricate world of Congressional functionality and bipartisan cooperation with former U.S. Representative L.F. Payne. Payne discussed the complexities of legislative affairs and how the United States Association of Former Members of Congress (FMC) fosters collaboration in a deeply divided political arena.

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Faculty and new inductees gather at the Pi Alpha Alpha reception, celebrating outstanding student achievement in public administration, public policy, and public affairs
News / April 29, 2024

Pi Alpha Alpha Induction Ceremony Celebrates Excellence in Public Service with Keynote Speaker RaJade Berry-James

The 2024 Pi Alpha Alpha Induction Ceremony, held at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, celebrated the achievements of 13 new inductees in public administration, public policy, and public affairs. The event featured a keynote address from NASPAA President RaJade Berry-James, emphasizing the commitment to equity, ethics, and professionalism in public service. Berry-James is also a Senior Associate Dean of Faculty and Academic Affairs at the Wilder School.

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After graduation, Deja Cooke will serve as a drug court probation officer with the Virginia Department of Corrections. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
News / April 25, 2024

Class of 2024: Deja Cooke returned to college to pursue a dream of a career in criminal justice

The Wilder School student has balanced VCU Health roles, a busy course load and community engagement.

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Rising to New Heights: The Wilder School ranks No. 6 in Homeland Security, No. 33 in Public Management and Leadership, and stands strong at No. 39 in Public Affairs Graduate Schools according to the 2024 U.S. News & World Report.
News / April 10, 2024

Wilder School Achieves Historic Rankings in 2024 USNWR

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is proud to announce its historic achievements in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report graduate program rankings. For the first time in its history, the school has been recognized as the nation's sixth-leading institution for Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to academic excellence and innovation in public affairs.

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Robyn McDougle, Ph.D. (M.S.’00, Ph.D.’03), associate dean of research and outreach, associate professor of criminal justice and dual VCU alumna.
News / March 26, 2024

Election year: exploring Virginians’ key perspectives through Commonwealth Poll insights

What are key issues for Virginians as we head into a strongly contested election year? This question and many others were addressed by the Wilder School’s own, Robyn McDougle, Ph.D. (M.S.’00, Ph.D.’03), associate dean of research and outreach, associate professor of criminal justice and dual VCU alumna.

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In the wake of a landmark $14 million penalty against Liberty University for mishandling sexual assault reports, Christina Mancini, an associate professor at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, discusses the essential elements of transparency, accountability, and a supportive community in fostering campus safety.
News / March 18, 2024

Beyond Penalties: Unpacking the Largest Clery Act Fine and the Path Forward for Campus Safety

In the wake of a landmark $14 million penalty against Liberty University for mishandling sexual assault reports, Christina Mancini, an authority on campus safety and sexual crime policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, discusses the essential elements of transparency, accountability, and a supportive community in fostering campus safety.

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Emergency preparedness is “everyone’s responsibility,” said Shawn Talmadge, state coordinator of the Virginia Department of Emergency Management. (Getty Images)
News / March 11, 2024

At VCU session, Virginia emergency management leader stresses resiliency and responsibility

Shawn Talmadge, who earned his master’s at VCU, and is current the state coordinator of the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and deputy homeland security adviser. cites the value of state agency’s ties to the Wilder School and other partners.

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Congratulations to our graduates!
News / May 11, 2024

Congratulations graduates: register for the Wilder School Spring 2024 Commencement

The Wilder School will hold its spring ceremony on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The VCU university-wide commencement will take place on Saturday, May 11 at 10 a.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

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Yolanda Macklin Crewe, Ph.D., is Director of Operations, Career Education and Workforce Programs for the Virginia Community Colleges System.
News / March 5, 2024

Alumni Changemaker: Yolanda Macklin Crewe’s Journey in Workforce Development

In Virginia's dynamic interplay of education and workforce development, Yolanda Macklin Crewe, Ph.D., emerges not just as a participant but as a transformative force. With roots that trace back to the vibrant rural community of Emporia, her journey to leading workforce initiatives at the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is a testament to her unwavering commitment to public service and innovative career development.

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News / February 14, 2024

Lunch and Learn "Building Resilience Across the Commonwealth of Virginia: It's More Than Just Responding"

Join us for an insightful Wilder School Lunch and Learn session with Shawn Talmadge (M.A.’09), Virginia's state coordinator of emergency management and deputy homeland security adviser, as we delve into strategies for building resilience in the face of increasing disasters. From extreme weather to cyberattacks, learn about the comprehensive approach Virginia employs to prepare and respond effectively.

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From left to right: David Webber, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness; RaJade Berry-James, Ph.D., Senior Associate Dean of Faculty and Academic Affairs; Susan Gooden, Ph.D., Dean of the Wilder School; and Michael Rao, Ph.D., President of Virginia Commonwealth University, gather to celebrate the inaugural National/International Recognition Awards (NIRA).
News / February 9, 2024

Wilder School faculty honored with Inaugural NIRA for distinguished contributions

Two Wilder School luminaries, Drs. RaJade Berry-James and David Webber, were celebrated as the first recipients of VCU's National/International Recognition Awards (NIRA) on February 8. Discover how their groundbreaking work in public administration and homeland security is setting national and international benchmarks, and what this prestigious recognition means for the future of public service and security research.

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Wilder School undergraduates Magdalena Ray, Sarah Jones, Ava Wilde, alongside VCU Health's Carol Olson, graduate student Caroline Wagner, alumni Grace Berigan, and Lindsay Cassada of Chesterfield County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Resource Center, unite at the Virginia General Assembly for the Put Victims First Day of Action
News / February 7, 2024

Wilder School students advocate for change at Virginia's Capitol

In an exemplary blend of academic study and real-world application, students from the Wilder School's CRJS316 Victimology and Victimization course recently made their mark at the Virginia General Assembly. Their participation in the Put Victim's First Day of Action was a significant step from theoretical learning into the realm of legislative lobbying for victim rights.

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Almost 6 in 10 Virginians would vote yes in a referendum regarding abortion rights in the commonwealth.
News / January 30, 2024

Wilder School Commonwealth Poll: Over half of Virginians would vote to give every individual the right to make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions

Majority of Virginians also support increasing penalties for drug dealers, legalizing marijuana and prohibiting parents from having ability to ban a book from a school’s library.

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Earlier this year, it was reported that VCU spent $73 million to back out of a development deal for the building of a new downtown facility with the City of Richmond. Later, it was reported that the financing could be $100 million more than the quoted cost and VCU received nothing for their money.
News / January 23, 2024

VCU administration negates Virginians’ voices, maligns Wilder School Commonwealth Poll credibility in conflict of interest over failed VCU Health development deal

This message is a direct response to the damaging and factually inaccurate attacks on the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs Commonwealth Poll, published on January 22, 2024. VCU top administrators and VCU News have challenged Virginians’ candid concerns about the failed Clay Street VCU Health real estate deal, the exit of which has thus cost VCU more than $83 million dollars and has the potential to exceed $100 million by the time all fees have been paid.

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Earlier this year, it was reported that VCU spent $73 million to back out of a development deal for the building of a new downtown facility with the City of Richmond. Later, it was reported that the financing could be $100 million more than the quoted cost and VCU received nothing for their money.
News / January 22, 2024

92% of those familiar with VCU Health development deal want answers from the VCU Health System board

Earlier this year, it was reported that VCU spent $73 million to back out of a development deal for the building of a new downtown facility with the City of Richmond. Later, it was reported that the financing could be $100 million more than the quoted cost and VCU received nothing for their money.

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Jada Whitley, a dedicated student with dual majors in criminal justice and homeland security and Emergency Preparedness, will proudly represent the Class of 2023 as the student speaker at the Wilder School's Graduation Ceremony on December 8.
News / December 6, 2023

Embracing Challenges: The Making of an Aspiring Change-Maker

As the VCU Wilder School community eagerly anticipates the upcoming Fall Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 8, we spotlight a remarkable Fall Class of 2023 member, Jada Whitley. Whitley, set to graduate with dual undergraduate degrees in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, has been honored with the role of student speaker, representing her class.

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From left to right, HOME of VA Executive Director Tom Okuda Fitzpatrick, Tarnika Edmunds, and the Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden at a Celebration of Life Event for Dr. Velma K. Ballard on October 18.
News / November 30, 2023

In Focus: Tarnika Edmunds & The Enduring Impact of Dr. Velma Ballard

Meet Tarnika Edmunds, a dedicated Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellow at the VCU Wilder School, who is making strides in housing policy and community development. Edmunds’ inspiring work with HOME of Virginia, guided by the legacy of the late Dr. Velma J. Ballard, demonstrates the power of academic and practical collaboration in fostering societal change. Read more about her journey and the impact of mentorship in shaping future leaders committed to equity and justice.

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Sarah Jane Brubaker
News / November 29, 2023

Wilder School to colaborate in VCU-lead project to support high-risk youth transitioning out of incarceration

A multidisciplinary team of researchers, including Wilder School Professor Sarah Jane Brubaker, is launching a project to provide supported employment, trauma counseling, peer support and case management for youth and young adults with behavioral health disorders who are transitioning out of a Richmond-area juvenile correctional facility.

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Nakeina E. Douglas-Glenn, Ph.D., an associate professor in VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, serves as director of the Research Institute for Social Equity. (L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs)
News / November 2, 2023

VCU Wilder School's Nakeina E. Douglas-Glenn connects equity and outcomes as a ‘pracademic’ – a practitioner-academic

Leading the Wilder School’s Research Institute for Social Equity, she looks to ensure that government services and public encounters embrace the full community.

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Ekrem Mus is a dual Wilder School alumnus in Public Policy and Administration as well as Criminal Justice.
News / November 9, 2023

2023 Doctoral Lecture: "State of Democracy & Human Rights in Turkey" will feature Wilder School alumnus Ekrem Mus (‘10 PPAD, ‘06 CJ)

Join Wilder School alumnus Ekrem Mus (‘10 PPAD, ‘06 CJ), Cmelikova Visiting International Scholar, University of Richmond Jepson School of Leadership Studies to explore human rights criminal justice and public policy implications in Turkey.

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News / November 6, 2023

VIDEO: Wilder School Lunch and Learn "All Eyes on Virginia: Analyzing Election 2023" with Bob Holsworth, Ph.D.

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a virtual Lunch and Learn session illuminating upcoming directions in government. Renowned political scientist Bob Holsworth, Ph.D., analyzes the 2023 Virginia elections and examines implications for the state. The session is moderated by Robyn Diehl McDougle, Ph.D. (M.S.’00, Ph.D.’03), Wilder School associate dean of research and outreach and associate professor.

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Stanford University undergraduates pose with Govenor Wilder as part of their hands-on learning on what it takes to run successful election campaigns.
News / November 6, 2023

Governor L. Douglas Wilder hosts Stanford University students for a key discussion on running successful elections

A delegation of more than 25 Stanford University students and their professor joined the Wilder School as part of a special session of their course, “Inside Modern Campaigns: How Elections are Won and Lost” During the gathering, Governor Wilder shared his expansive experiences about the state of leadership, both local and national, as well as his perspectives and observations of the changes and challenges facing good governance.

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Project Belong’s objective is to help youth and young adults psychologically, educationally and vocationally with employment.
News / October 25, 2023

A new VCU-led project will support high-risk youth transitioning out of incarceration

Project Belong will provide mental health, education and vocational support to 75 youth transitioning out of Bon Air Juvenile Correctional Center.

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Luisa Nazareno Aguiar and Charity Scott are the newest expert researchers and instructors to join the Wilder School for the 2023-2024 academic year.
News / November 2, 2023

Meet our new Wilder School faculty: Luisa Nazareno Aguiar and Charity Scott

We are proud to announce the newest members of the Wilder School faculty and welcome their expertise and impacts.

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The class Sustainable Community Development, part of the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU, developed story maps in partnership with descendant and community groups associated with Barton Heights and Woodland cemeteries. (Contributed photo)
News / October 27, 2023

VCU Master of Urban and Regional Studies students’ online story maps highlight the history of Richmond’s Barton Heights and Woodland cemeteries

The project was developed in close partnership with groups of descendants and volunteers associated with the two historic African American cemeteries in Richmond.

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Whyte's work seeks to confront popular myths and misconceptions — including “cyber doom” in the media.
News / October 25, 2023

Braving the future of international cybersecurity: expert Christopher Whyte explores new U.S. cyberstrategies and establishing international humanitarian rules for hackers

For the average person, understanding cybersecurity is no easy task. Even for savvy tech professionals, disruptions regularly create unprecedented and often unfathomable scenarios that wreak financial and political havoc. It’s rare that any geopolitical conflicts today are without some cybersecurity implications. Thankfully, the Wilder School has Christopher Whyte on its side to help us make sense of emergent digital threats as well as how to collectively rethink cybersecurity .

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From left: Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden with 10 Under 10 recipients Gilbert Michaud, Axana Soltan and Arzu Moosvi. Photo: Stevan Dozier
News / October 24, 2023

Three Wilder School alumni honored with 10 Under 10 Awards

VCU Alumni’s 10 Under 10 awards program recognizes the noteworthy and distinctive achievements made by alumni who earned their first VCU degree (undergraduate, graduate or professional certificate) within the past 10 years. This year, three of the 10 awardees studied at the Wilder School.

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Bryan Slater is confronting contemporary workforce challenges, including the mounting challenges filling positions across the Commonwealth of Virginia to meet current and emerging workforce needs.
News / October 23, 2023

Exploring the Labor Landscape: Analyzing Workforce Challenges with Byran Slater, Virginia Secretary of Labor

What are the workforce trends that will shape the future of the public sector locally and across Virginia? It’s a question Bryan Slater, Virginia Secretary of Labor, tackled during a Wilder School Lunch and Learn virtual presentation.  He discussed a spectrum of contemporary workforce challenges, including the mounting challenges filling positions across the Commonwealth of Virginia and solutions to meet current and emerging workforce needs.

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Despite its size and isolationism, North Korea is a global player that continues to juggle relationships between Russia and China.
News / October 19, 2023

North Korea: What you need to know with Wilder School expert Benjamin Young

From leader Kim Jong Un’s recent visit with Vladimir Putin and rumors of a military alliance with Russia to nuclear weapons development and COVID isolationism, North Korea punches up for its size in international politics. The impacts of this secretive nation are felt across the globe.  We spoke with expert Ben Young, assistant professor of homeland security and emergency management at the VCU Wilder School, to explore what we need to know about North Korea.

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Dr. RaJade M. Berry-James, Senior Associate Dean at the Wilder School of Government, is the 2023-24 president of NASPAA.
News / October 13, 2023

Dr. RaJade M. Berry-James Named President of NASPAA Senior Associate Dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs to Helm Global Accreditor for Public Affairs Programs

Dr. RaJade M. Berry-James, Senior Associate Dean at the Wilder School of Government, is the 2023-24 president of NASPAA. With a 30-year focus on public administration, she champions diversity and inclusion. Her NASPAA vision is to unite academic research with actionable social change. Dr. Berry-James is committed to addressing biases in public affairs education and advancing global public service standards.

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News / October 5, 2023

Championing Equity: The 2023 Wilder Symposium Tackles HBCU Funding Disparities

In an era echoing demands for equality, funding disparities between HBCUs and other institutions highlight lingering inequities. Led by L. Douglas Wilder, the Wilder School of Government recently showcased this crucial issue in a significant symposium. Discover insights from a renowned panel spanning academia to politics as they tackle 'HBCUs and the Absence of Support' at the 2023 Wilder Symposium.

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66th Governor of Virginia, L. Douglas Wilder symbolizes the pinnacle of public service as the first elected African-American in the United States.
News / September 27, 2023

Governor L. Douglas Wilder honored with Defender of Democracy Award by the University of Virginia Center for Politics

Center for Politics Director Larry J. Sabato will present Wilder with the award at a luncheon event at the University of Virginia’s Rotunda Dome Room on Friday, Sept. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the presentation itself beginning around 12:15 p.m.

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From left to right: Dr. Chelsie Dunn, Senior Research Associate at the Research Institute for Social Equity (RISE); Zehra Sahin Ilkorkor, doctoral candidate; and Isaac Yeboah, doctoral candidate.
News / September 26, 2023

VCU Wilder School Celebrates Three Recipients of the APPAM Equity & Inclusion Fellowship

The Association for Public Policy and Management Analysis (APPAM) has named three representatives from VCU's Wilder School as 2023 Equity & Inclusion Fellowship recipients, who will present at a conference in Atlanta in November.

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Janice Underwood, Ph.D., Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility at the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
News / September 25, 2023

DEIA: Lived experiences and the spirit of democracy

What trends are shaping diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility programs and how can practitioners prepare and plan successful, long-term strategies?

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Many of us who knew and loved her weren’t able to gather and celebrate her life and legacy. As we approach the third anniversary of her passing, HOME will host a celebration of life to remember Dr. Velma J. Ballard.
News / September 13, 2023

HOME of VA celebrates the life of Wilder School alumna Dr. Velma J. Ballard

Dr. Velma J. Ballard (’15) was a lifelong learner, resilient student, and empathetic, compassionate human being who, like many Wilder students, cared deeply about improving the world around us.  She sought to increase equality and equity in myriad spaces, particularly education, the workplace, and housing.

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These talented graduate students are gaining career experiences with our partners: Capital Region Airport Commission, Dinwiddie County, HOME of VA, Virginia Dept. of Corrections, VCU Center for Public Policy, VCU RVA Eviction Lab, and the Greater Richmond Transit Company. Here's to a great year of research and public service.
News / September 8, 2023

Empowering tomorrow's leaders: The 2023-24 Wilder Graduate Scholars’ Fellowship Cohort at the Forefront of Public Affairs

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is proud to introduce the accomplished members of the 2023-24 Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship Program. This year's cohort brings together 14 inquisitive minds from multifaceted backgrounds and academic programs. Established in 2006, the Wilder Fellowship remains a pivotal bridge in connecting our exceptional master's students with state agencies and nonprofit organizations.

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Eric Campbell leading students in the Athenian Oath during a convocation ceremony honoring MPA students at Syracuse University's Maxwell School. The oath's guiding principle,
News / September 8, 2023

From Churchill's Heartbeat to Leadership's Pulse: The Journey of Eric Campbell

Eric Campbell stands as a pillar in the Wilder School, merging academic theory with hands-on practice. But his narrative has many dimensions. As Harrisonburg, Va.'s first African-American city manager, his impact radiates from Richmond's Churchill roots to the dynamic streets of Charlotte and Dallas, painting a tale of relentless leadership, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to community enrichment.

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News / August 21, 2023

Welcome to the 2023-24 Academic Year!

Dear Wilder School Alumni, Friends and Supporters, Welcome to the 2023-24 academic year! As we step into the Fall semester, we do so full of pride for our numerous achievements and in anticipation of yet another first-class year at the Wilder School. 

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“Our recent Wilder School poll showed Virginians are concerned about the costs of living,” said L. Douglas Wilder, who served as the 66th governor of Virginia. “I’ve always had a one-word definition for politics — money — and the people are likewise focused on inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living.” Photo: Getty Images
News / August 8, 2023

VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll: Virginians see inflation and rising cost of living as most important issue facing the state

Virginians also cite concerns about climate change and artificial intelligence.

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The Wilder School's poll asked Virginians about a potential presidential race between President Joe Biden and Gov. Glenn Youngkin, as well as their approval ratings and recent Supreme Court decisions
News / August 3, 2023

VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll shows Virginians favor Youngkin over Biden for president

In a hypothetical political showdown between Virginia Governor Youngkin and President Biden, a new Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University unveils an unexpected preference among Virginians. Youngkin's rising approval, contrasted with a divided sentiment on Biden, portrays a complex picture.

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Shifting demographics, increased education demands in new jobs and rising tuition expenses are creating a perfect storm of challenges in higher education.
News / July 31, 2023

Higher education expert Peter Blake explores the “perfect storm” facing our nation

How must colleges and universities successfully adapt in a rapidly changing environment? It’s a perpetual challenge that Peter Blake, director of  State Council of Higher Education for Virginia confronts as a key player in the commonwealth. During a recent Wilder School Lunch and Learn virtual seminar, Blake explored the uncertain future of higher education and offered strategies and opportunities for transformation.

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Elsie Harper-Anderson, an associate professor at the VCU Wilder School, was instrumental in shaping a new RAND Corporation study that explores the post-COVID-19 entrepreneurial surge. The research underscores the pivotal role local governments play in fostering thriving entrepreneurial ecosystems across six U.S. cities.
News / July 19, 2023

A new report by the Wilder School’s Elsie Harper-Anderson highlights the role of local governments in successful entrepreneurial ecosystems

A post-COVID-19 entrepreneurial surge in local governments sparked a RAND Corporation report, co-authored by Wilder School's Elsie Harper-Anderson. Surveying six U.S. cities, the report emphasizes the overlooked role of local governments in nurturing entrepreneurial ecosystems. Highlighting the variable allocation of support based on each city's economic objectives, the study calls for a deeper understanding of local government's influence on entrepreneurship.

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Peer Recovery Specialist Joy Bogese and Officer Travis Adams conversing on a ride along. Credit: Rolynn Wilson for WRIC ABC 8News.
News / July 11, 2023

From Chains to Change: Joy Bogese's Transformation from Addiction to Advocacy

Joy Bogese (M.S. '06) found redemption not amidst academic credentials, a thriving career, or middle-class comforts, but inside an unwanted haven: a jail cell. This was the battleground for her transformative victory over drug addiction. Emerging as a symbol of resilience, she's now a peer recovery specialist at Project Recover. Her past, once a source of anguish, now equips her as a formidable agent of change in the fight against addiction and reforming law enforcement attitudes.

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Keith Rogers, a dual VCU alumnus and Wilder School M,P.A. graduate, was recently named city manager in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. (Contributed photo)
News / July 5, 2023

South of the (Virginia) border, VCU alum Keith Rogers Jr., '10 M.P.A., takes the lead as city manager

With two VCU degrees, a decade in Richmond government and a stint in N.Va., Rogers is now leading Rocky Mount, North Carolina.

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Orientation leader Essence Palmer (left), works with her peers Bella Riccardi (center) and Jamir Coleman (right) are great resources for new students, and any students, who have questions about life at VCU to show new students all the opportunities to prepare them for success. Photo: Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
News / July 6, 2023

VCU orientation leaders like Wilder School student Essence Palmer get lots of questions from new Rams. Here are her answers to some of the most common.

From places to eat to getting around – and even how to make friends – Essense Palmer, a criminal justice and homeland security and emergency preparedness student at the Wilder School offers experiences-based advice for incoming students.

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Professor Jay Albanese is collaborating with colleagues in Ukraine and Europe to identify transnational crime trends in Ukraine.
News / June 30, 2023

A house divided: international organized crime expert reveals how the Russian war against Ukraine is transforming the operations of Europe’s largest criminal ecosystem

Nearly a year and half after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, warzones, economic sanctions and shifting alliances are creating new long-term trends in local and global law enforcement. As a key hub of weapons, drugs and human trafficking, criminal activity in the region has large implications for Europe.

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Class of 2023 HIGHER Ground Women’s Leadership Development Program.
News / June 28, 2023

HIGHER Ground Women’s Leadership Development graduates learn to lead with compassion.

Introducing Dr. Antoinette Allen, Ph.D., the new director of Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute and HIGHER Ground Program. Under her guidance, 34 leaders completed the transformative program, emphasizing compassion and growth. With a distinguished career at esteemed institutions like the Federal Executive Institute, IRS Leadership Academy, and FBI, Dr. Allen brings extensive expertise in leadership development.

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Title card from virtual Wilder School Lunch and Learn featuring Damian Pitt, Ph.D.
News / June 23, 2023

“The State House vs. the Greenhouse: Reviewing the Landscape of Energy Policy and Climate Action in Virginia” with Damian Pitt, Ph.D.

Where does energy policy stand in Virginia? What are some leading strategies for advancing equity-focused clean energy? Damian Pitt, Ph.D., associate professor in the Wilder School’s urban and regional studies and planning program, addressed these questions and more during a virtual Lunch and Learn session titled, “The State House vs. the Greenhouse: Reviewing the Landscape of Energy Policy and Climate Action in Virginia” on June 21. 

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Engaged in focused research as a doctoral student at the Wilder School's public policy and administration program, Keandra Davis investigates the complex interplay of housing displacement, environmental risks, and emergency management within Miami's public housing sector.
News / June 22, 2023

Keandra Davis: A Guiding Force for Racial Equity in Housing

Keandra Davis, a doctoral student at the Wilder School's public policy and administration program, is leveraging her lived experience and academic insights to enact change in urban policy. Raised in Miami's Liberty City, Davis witnessed stark housing inequities firsthand, kindling a deep-seated resolve that now propels her professional journey. Her work investigates the complex interplay of housing displacement, environmental risks, and emergency management within Miami's public housing sector.

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Dean Susan T. Gooden accepts the 2023 Philip J. Rutledge Social Equity Award presented by the National Academy of Public Administration. Pictured from left to right: Teresa Gerton, Ph.D.; President and CEO of NAPA, RaJade M. Berry-James; Senior Associate Dean, VCU Wilder School and NAPA Co-Chair of the Standing Panel on Social Equity; Susan T. Gooden; Dean, VCU Wilder School; and Charles Menifield
News / June 16, 2023

Dean Susan T. Gooden Honored with Prestigious 2023 Rutledge Social Equity Award for Pioneering Work in Public Administration

Internationally renowned scholar Dr. Susan T. Gooden, Dean and Professor of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), has been honored with the prestigious 2023 Philip J. Rutledge Social Equity Award. This award, bestowed by the National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA), underscores Gooden's commitment of over 20 years to advancing social equity.

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During her testimony, Cleary challenged assumptions regarding adolescent development and vulnerability to police manipulation and coercion as well as the developmental science on youth decision making in stressful contexts.
News / June 15, 2023

Youth and confessions: Wilder School interrogation expert aids defense in acquitting juvenile suspect of murder

Hayley Cleary, a professor of criminal justice and public policy with a Ph.D. in developmental psychology, focusing on justice system-involved youth, recently served as an expert witness for the defense in the murder case acquittal of Terrell Jones.

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Adelaide Alexander, a master’s student in urban and regional studies and planning at VCU, speaks at a Richmond Participatory Budgeting Commission meeting this winter at the Richmond Public Library. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
News / June 13, 2023

VCU urban planning student helps ‘a very hopeful experiment’ take root in Richmond

With the rollout expanding this fall, Adelaide Alexander says participatory budgeting elevates social awareness and community engagement.

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According to Pitt, partisanship in rolling back energy regulations is a key barrier to economic opportunity and equity for consumers.
News / June 9, 2023

Virginia leaves Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative: What you need to know

With a 4-3 vote from the Air Pollution Control Board, Virginia begins a process to withdraw from a multistate carbon cap-and-trade program, walking back years of greenhouse gas and sustainable energy. We sat down with Damian Pitt, Ph.D., an expert in sustainability-focused energy policy in Virginia and the Atlantic region. Pitt is associate professor of urban planning in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public

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A panel discussion with local entrepreneurs was led by Wilder School associate professor Meghan Gough, Ph.D. The panelist were: Rasheeda Creighton(president & CEO, Jackson Ward Collective Foundation), Sandi Cano Cauley (founder & owner,Scott Hill Creative & Turn Cardio JAM Studio), Brown Hansbaro (owner & lead designer, The Flower Guy Bron), Telisha Woodfin (founder & owner, LIVLoved).
News / May 25, 2023

Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs convene to discuss keys to business expansion and wealth building

What is the quickest way to grow wealth for Blacks and Hispanics in Richmond, Virginia?

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Nicolette Zbell (at right) enjoys working with students to help them “overcome, work around or bypass,” any barriers along their paths to earning their degree. Here she poses with Diana Hall (Urban & Regional Studies) at the Wilder School May 2023 Commencement.
News / May 25, 2023

Wilder School academic advisor Nicolette Zbell helps navigate students to graduation and beyond

For 14 years, Nicolette Zbell has advised thousands of students at VCU as an academic advisor for VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. She joined the Wilder School four years ago, bringing more than a decade of experience as a VCU advisor. She says the most rewarding part of her job is helping students– but the most challenging part is getting them to her office.

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John Venuti
News / May 22, 2023

VIDEO: Exploring the future of campus policing With the VCU police chief John Venuti

What is the role of the VCU Police Department in promoting campus and community support for all? It's a key question VCU chief of police John Venuti explored during a recent Wilder School Lunch and Learn presentation. 

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As an associate professor at University of South Carolina Beaufort, Najmah Thomas is committed to providing young people with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive in the world of public policy.
News / May 19, 2023

Alumni Changemaker: Najmah Thomas, Ph.D., merges history, equity and policy

For Najmah Thomas, Ph.D. (PPA ’11), the intersection of history, equity and policy has always been at the forefront of her career in public service, policy program evaluation and academia. With over two decades of experience in government and beyond, Thomas is forging a path for future generations of practitioners.

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The VEI graduating Spring Class of 2023 were joined by Gov. L. Douglas Wilder and Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden at the Virginia State Capitol.
News / May 17, 2023

Virginia Executive Institute Class of Spring 2023 celebrates with workforce development presentations

The Spring 2023 Class of the Virginia Executive Institute (VEI) celebrated their program completion by gathering to present group project findings. VEI provides a dynamic forum for leaders to collaborate across a network of state executives committed to developing their leadership strengths and becoming change agents for Virginia's future.

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Illustration of a pharmacist filling a prescription.
News / May 16, 2023

Unequal Distribution of Pharmacies in Virginia Leaves Vulnerable Populations at Risk, Study Shows

A recent study by Ivan Suen and Jimmy Chen, both professors of urban and regional planning at Virginia Commonwealth University's L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, reveals compelling evidence of the unequal distribution of pharmacies in Virginia, which disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations.

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With the federal Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 ending, there will likely be fewer mass vaccination events and less intense outreach efforts in the coming year. (Getty Images)
News / May 16, 2023

Brie Haupt: The federal Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 ended. What does that mean?

While most might not notice any changes, VCU experts say people who face social and economic inequities may feel the effects of pandemic for some time.

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The Class of 2023 joins the ranks of more than 12,000 Wilder School alumni.
News / May 15, 2023

2023 Spring Commencement Recap

On Saturday, the Wilder School welcomed more than 250 graduates to our alumni ranks of 12,000 and counting. Governor Wilder delivered the keynote speech which prompted graduates with the charge to take on leadership for the public good, no matter their professional roles. Undergraduate Abby Houchin and graduate student Alexia Brown delivered riveting speeches to their classmates.

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Wilder School and NASPAA colleagues gather with Dr. Laurin Henry at his home in Charlottesville, Va. last month. From left to right: Associate Dean RaJade Berry-James, Professor Emeritus Laurin Henry, Dean Susan T. Gooden and NASPAA Executive Director Angel Wright-Lanier. Back row, left to right: Development Director Stevan Dozier, Professor Emeritus Blue Wooldridge.
News / May 8, 2023

Celebrating a career of public service: Laurin L. Henry, Ph.D., professor emeritus, approaches 102nd birthday

Laurin L. Henry, Ph.D., turns 102 on May 23. He was the first dean of VCU's School of Community Services (now the Wilder School) and served as the president of NASPAA. Last month, Henry recounted his legacy of passion, dedication and service to administrators from NASPAA and the VCU Wilder School.

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Professor Xumeng
News / May 8, 2023

Plan Off! 2023: Congratulations to our urban and regional planning graduate students

The Plan Off! 2023 competition was a huge success and celebration for students, faculty, alumni and friends to gather in support of urban planning. Each year, MURP students compete for a prize by pitching their solution to a real-world planning, public policy or management problem before a panel of expert judges. Students each receive five minutes to present their plans, which advance through a series of rounds until a champion is named.

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Brad Lehmann poses with Gov. L. Douglas Wilder during commencement.
News / May 5, 2023

Wilder School criminal justice faculty Brad Lehmann selected for the 2023 Oxford University Summer Research Institute

While at Oxford, Dr. Lehmann will be designated as a Visiting Fellow of Harris Manchester College and intends to utilize the Bodleian Law Library for its unique insight for criminal justice and the law to access the materials that are not readily available to scholarship in the United States

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John Venuti
News / May 8, 2023

Wilder School Lunch and Learn - Community-Engaged Policing: A Discussion with VCU Chief of Police

In this virtual session, John Venuti, VCU police chief and associate vice president for public safety, will discuss how policing has changed since 2020 in the wake of the George Floyd murder. He will also dissect the significant differences between municipal law enforcement and campus law enforcement as well as discuss a model for the future of policing, “Policing with a Purpose.” The session will be moderated by Chernoh Wurie, Ph.D., assistant professor of criminal justice.

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VCU alumna Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D., and her family have established the Dr. Sesha Joi Moon Endowed Scholarship to support students in the fields of African American studies, government, and public affairs. Moon, who serves as chief diversity officer at the U.S. House of Representatives, credits VCU with launching her career.
News / May 4, 2023

Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D., establishes landmark endowed scholarship to unlock the potential of the next generation of leaders

Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D. (B.A.’05;M.S.’08; Cert’09) is building a lasting legacy in Richmond and beyond through her tireless commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion. Inspired by her family’s past, she’s expanding critical learning opportunities for future generations through the new Dr. Sesha Joi Moon Endowed Scholarship.

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With a double major in political science and criminal justice, Laila Barnes found the Virginia Capitol Semester to be a multifaceted opportunity to gain experience for her future.
News / May 3, 2023

Wilder School Virginia Capitol Semester program: Laila Barnes unlocks future career opportunities

For Laila Barnes, pivoting to a new field of study allowed her to bring her career aspirations into view. The Wilder School Virginia Capitol Semester program offered her an experiential learning opportunity to help build a foundation for her future success. This internship program allowed Barnes to spend the semester with Minority Leader Delegate Don Scott’s office.

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Motivated by a passion for the policy world, Edvard Evans found the Virginia Capitol Semester an eye-opening look into the process of policymaking.
News / May 3, 2023

Wilder School Virginia Capitol Semester program: Edvard Evans gains an inside perspective on Virginia government

This spring semester internship allows students to combine classroom experience with hands-on service in the office of Virginia State Legislature House Delegate or Senator during the General Assembly, and Evans was able to gain an inside perspective on the inner workings of state government.

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Administrator Criswell shared her career journey and experiences leading FEMA. She first joined the emergency management field as a firefighter.
News / May 2, 2023

Wilder School hosts FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell for fireside chat

Senior FEMA leadership delegation visited the Wilder School to share emergency management and preparedness career opportunities

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Esteemed VCU alumna Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D., is the Chief Diversity Officer for the U.S. House of Representatives.
News / April 27, 2023

Support an endowed scholarship in honor of VCU alum Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D.

VCU alumna Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D., and her family members have established the Dr. Sesha Joi Moon Endowed Scholarship to support undergraduate and graduate students in the fields of African American studies, government, and public affairs. Moon, who serves as chief diversity officer at the U.S. House of Representatives and was one of the first graduates of VCU's Department of African American Studies, credits the university with launching her career.

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Wilder School alumnus Michael Perkins lived a life dedicated to his family, his community and the service and advocacy of others.
News / May 1, 2023

Raising a voice for others to thrive: remembering Michael La’Mont Perkins, Esq.

Michael La’Mont Perkins, Esq., Wilder School alumnus and dedicated public servant, built a life committed to education, mentorship and advocacy. As a young, African-American professional, Michael led a life dedicated to family, faith, leadership, and service using his voice as a tool to impact the lives of those around him forever.

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Christopher Whyte, an assistant professor of homeland security and emergency preparedness at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, is the co-author of two recent books:
News / May 1, 2023

Understanding Cyber Warfare: An Interview with Author and Cybersecurity Expert, Christopher Whyte

Christopher Whyte, an assistant professor of homeland security and emergency preparedness at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, is the co-author of two recent books: "Understanding Cyber Warfare: Politics, Policy and Strategy” and "Information in War: Military Innovation, Battle Networks, and the Future of Artificial Intelligence.” We sat down with Whyte to discuss the second edition of UCW and the current state of cybersecurity.

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Kalokoh’s research explores the intersections of criminal justice, homeland security and emergency management, which developed through his experiences growing up amid a civil war and post-war conditions in Sierra Leone.
News / April 28, 2023

Wilder School doctoral student Amidu Kalokoh awarded highly competitive scholarship for public administration, public policy and public affairs

Amidu Kalokoh, a doctoral student in Public Policy and Administration at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, is the recipient of the 2023 Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR) Summer Program Scholarship in Quantitative Methods.

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U.S. News & World Report ranks the Wilder School public affairs program at No. 39, which places us in the top 15% of more than 250 schools across the United States, as well as top-50 rankings in four program specialty areas.
News / April 25, 2023

Wilder School receives top national accolades in U.S. News and World Report graduate program rankings

U.S. News & World Report ranks our school’s public affairs program at No. 39, which places us in the top 15% of more than 250 schools across the United States, as well as top-50 rankings in four program specialty areas.

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The Virginia Evictors Catalog is part of the Virginia Housing Justice Atlas project, which is being steered by an advisory committee made up of representatives from housing justice organizations in the Richmond and Charlottesville areas.
News / April 24, 2023

The RVA Eviction Lab shines a spotlight on Virginia’s high eviction rate

The Wilder School’s RVA Eviction Lab has partnered with the University of Virginia’s Equity Center to provide data on landlords with high eviction court filings. Together, they created the Virginia Evictors Catalog, a database that catalogs property owner plaintiffs who have filed tenant evictions across Virginia. The goal is to use the data to learn how best to redress unjust eviction processes in the commonwealth.

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66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder is the nation's first African-American Governor.
News / April 24, 2023

Wilder School in Action: Governor's Voice

66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder joins us for a Q&A to share his perspectives on the Wilder School Commonwealth Poll, a longtime bellwether and trusted source for public opinion in Virginia

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Sofhia Pineda Garay is exploring continuing her education with graduate school across subject areas including public policy, public administration and education administration. The Wilder School  dual-degree program  offering a master of public administration and juris doctorate are also on her radar.
News / April 21, 2023

Wilder School Virginia Capitol Semester program: Sofhia Pineda Garay explores legislation in action

The Wilder School Virginia Capitol Semester program represents a unique opportunity for students to gain direct experience in the policy process. This spring semester internship program allows students to play an integral support role in the office of a Virginia State Legislature House Delegate or Senator during the General Assembly. For Sofhia Pineda Garay, a passion for social equity and social justice reform led her to apply.

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Davina Efetie will spend a month in London for Condé Nast and Vogue’s summer intensive course. (Tom Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
News / April 21, 2023

Class of 2023: Davina Efetie steps outside of her major in style

With a summer internship linked to Vogue magazine, criminal justice major has designs on following her passion for fashion.

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Dean Gooden poses with Student Ambassadors at the Student Recognition Ceremony and Reception held at the VCU Student Commons on April 25, 2023.
News / April 28, 2023

Wilder School faculty, students recognized with end-of-year awards

With the closing of another academic year imminent, VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs recognized many of its exemplary students, faculty, and staff at annual year-end awards ceremonies held in April.

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Olive Blackstone is graduating with a 3.9 GPA and is double majoring in criminal justice and psychology. (Photo by Thomas Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)
News / April 21, 2023

Class of 2023: With a mind on crime, Olive Blackstone pursues justice and understanding

Blackstone has explored criminal justice and psychology at VCU, both in and out of the classroom.

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Six Ukrainian national security experts visited Richmond recently, and VCU facilitated their work to target land mines in their country. (Photo courtesy of GEO)
News / April 20, 2023

Ukrainian delegation visits with VCU experts and others as part of effort to eliminate the threat of land mines

National security experts from a country at war meet with faculty and other leaders to learn and share insights.

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Curtis Brown's research evaluates disaster planning and relief through a lens of equity to help influence policymaking.
News / April 17, 2023

Wilder School in Action: Bringing equity to emergency management and disaster response

As natural disasters intensify in the U.S. due to climate change, many studies reveal that responses from federal, state, local, private and nonprofit agencies result in widely different outcomes for vulnerable, historically marginalized populations. These shortcomings dramatically affect their safety before and during a disaster, as well as their ability to financially recover in the aftermath.

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These extraordinary Virginians model a strong commitment to improving lives in the commonwealth.
News / April 13, 2023

2023 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards celebrates record-setting event

Four outstanding public servants and three innovative organizations were honored during the 16th Excellence in Virginia Government Awards (EVGA) held on April 11, 2023, by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. Gov. L. Douglas Wilder, who created the awards in 2004, remarked on the importance of recognizing excellent achievements.

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Seeking out professional help and resources is a key recommendation for anyone facing eviction.
News / April 13, 2023

Richmond has declared a housing crisis. What does this mean for renters in the region?

Kathryn Howell, Ph.D., and Benjamin Teresa, Ph.D., study housing instability in Richmond and the region. They are associate professors of urban and regional studies and planning at Virginia Commonwealth University, and they co-direct the RVA Eviction Lab in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.

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Mo Alie-Cox earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the Wilder School 2015 and a master’s degree in criminal justice in 2017.
News / April 5, 2023

VCU alum Mo Alie-Cox will serve as university’s May universitywide commencement speaker

Alie-Cox, a former standout on the Rams men’s basketball team, has enjoyed a career in the NFL as a pass-catching tight end.

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Amie Fuller (second from left), poses with fellow graduate student team members from other universities.
News / April 3, 2023

Wilder School graduate student Amie Fuller wins top honors at NASPAA’s 2023 Wildfire Simulation Competition

Wilder School graduate student Amie Fuller represented the homeland security and emergency preparedness program (HSEP) during the 2023 Wildfire Simulation Competition. The event was held on March 4 at James Madison University by the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). Fuller’s team, which included five teammates from different universities, won first place. The win advances the team to the international competition.

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Damian Pitt is an associate professor in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and the associate director of policy and community engagement of the Institute for Sustainable Energy and Environment.
News / March 31, 2023

Connecting equity and sustainability: Damian Pitt drives research to advance the long-term future of energy policy

Damian Pitt, Ph.D., an associate professor in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, is committed to transforming the future of renewable energy and energy efficiency by informing policymaking through scholarly research.

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Brittany Keegan, Ph.D., the Wilder School’s director of research promotion and engagement, was selected as the 2023 recipient of the esteemed Section On International And Comparative Administration (SICA) Jeanne-Marie Col Leadership Award. This award is offered to SICA members who are dedicated to furthering an international perspective in the field.
News / March 30, 2023

L. Douglas Wilder School brings diverse range of expertise to 2023 ASPA Annual Conference

The Wilder School brought together a group of nearly 20 presenters to share their expertise at the recent 2023 American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) Annual Conference.

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Nancy Toscano is the first female president and CEO of UMFS, a nonprofit that offers services such as foster care, residential treatment, specialized schools and mental health services.
News / March 28, 2023

Alumni Changemaker: Nancy Toscano builds on career marked by dedication to vulnerable families and children

As CEO of UMFS, Ph.D. alumna Nancy Toscano ('15 PPA) builds on career marked by dedication to vulnerable families and children.

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Governor L. Douglas Wilder receives Ambassador Karen Pierce at the VCU Scott House.
News / March 23, 2023

British Ambassador to the U.S. selects the Wilder School for diplomacy tour

Dame Karen Pierce DCMG, British Ambassador to the United States of America, recently joined Wilder School students for an insightful discussion exploring US/UK relations, the challenges of global diplomacy and her extensive international career ranging from the United Nations to Afghanistan, and beyond.

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Melissa Assalone oversees the day-to-day operations of the Virginia Food Industry Association and serves as the organization’s primary lobbyist at the General Assembly.
News / March 17, 2023

VIDEO: Melissa Assalone explores trends in rising food prices

During a recent Wilder School Lunch and Learn virtual presentation, Melissa Assalone, who oversees the day-to-day operations of the Virginia Food Industry Association and serves as the organization’s primary lobbyist at the General Assembly, shared key factors contributing to rising food prices in Virginia and across the country.

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As an alumna, Amy Atkinson maintains close relationships with the Wilder School. Left to right: Amy Atkinson, Gov. L. Douglas Wilder and Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden.
News / March 17, 2023

Alumni Changemaker: Amy Atkinson serves the commonwealth's youth and families

Amy Atkinson’s (MPA ’00) career in public service began with embracing “open doors” that led her to unexpected professional opportunities. Now the executive director of the Virginia Commission on Youth, she has served in state government for nearly three decades and remains committed to opening doors for others.

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News / March 13, 2023

Democracy and Diplomacy: Cultivating Our Future

Join Dame Karen Pierce DCMG, British Ambassador to the United States of America for an insightful discussion exploring US/UK relations, the challenges of global diplomacy and her extensive international career ranging from the United Nations to Afghanistan, and beyond. The event will feature Her Excellency Dame Karen Pierce DCMG and fellow British diplomats Paul Rennie and Phil Dickinson.

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Sisters Sesha Joi Moon and Enjoli Moon.
News / March 13, 2023

Out of the Past: Sisters Enjoli and Sesha Joi Moon are using their nonprofit, the JXN Project, to explore the lost grandeur of Richmond’s Jackson Ward neighborhood

Sisters Enjoli and Sesha Joi Moon are using their nonprofit, the JXN Project, to explore the lost grandeur of Richmond’s Jackson Ward neighborhood

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News / March 9, 2023

Wilder School insights explore racial equity implications of COVID-19 during a national conversation on pandemic response

The National Academy of Public Administration recently hosted a panel discussion which explored the geopolitical tensions caused by COVID-19 and showcased how countries learn from one another when dealing with "local" impacts of common global challenges.

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Governor Wilder met with Richard Price and Virginia University Union alumni.
News / February 27, 2023

Gov. Wilder joins Virginia University Union Chapel to share leadership experiences

66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder recently joined Virginia Union University dean of the Chapel and minister Richard Price for a lecture. Gov. Wilder spoke about leadership and shared some key moments from his life that helped grow his approach to pushing boundaries to achieve the impossible.

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The book represents a collaborative research undertaking that includes contributions from 16 Wilder School faculty, three alumni and three Ph.D. students. The volume was edited by Wilder School faculty Elsie Harper-Anderson, Jay Albanese and Susan Gooden.
News / February 13, 2023

Available now: “Triple Pandemic” book showcases the breadth of Wilder School research

Published by Routledge, the book represents a collaborative research undertaking that includes contributions from 16 Wilder School faculty, three alumni and three Ph.D. students.

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Amy Clifton-Mills (far right) created the premade quizzes that were included in Chernoh Wurie's textbook “Introduction to Policing.” Together with Wurie’s wife Jennifer, they presented the book to then Henrico Police Chief Humberto Cardounel Jr.
News / February 8, 2023

Future-Focused: Amy Clifton-Mills takes an innovative approach to criminal justice research

For Amy Clifton-Mills (M.S. ’19), pursuing criminal justice was an obvious choice. Raised on “Law & Order” and “CSI,” Clifton-Mills’ curiosity and self-proclaimed “nosiness” grew into a passion for social sciences. Now a student in the Wilder School public policy and administration Ph.D. program with a concentration in criminal justice policy, she’s putting a childhood dream into action.

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Moon earned a bachelor’s degree in African American Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s from the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU.
News / February 8, 2023

Wilder School Lunch and Learn - "Representation in the 118th Congress: Intersections with Public Administration" with Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D.

"Representation in the 118th Congress: Intersections with Public Administration" with Sesha Joi Moon, Ph.D.

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Charles S. Robb, a former United States senator and the 64th governor of Virginia, is recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant contributions to public service to the people of the state and the country. Photo: Lyndon B. Johnson Library
News / February 1, 2023

Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU announces recipients of 16th Excellence in Virginia Government Awards

Seven recipients will be honored at a luncheon from noon to 2 p.m. on April 11 at the Richmond Marriott, 500 E. Broad St. A 30-minute television program about this year’s recipients will air on WTVR-CBS6 in Richmond at 7:30 p.m. on April 13.

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Cydney Lowenstein (B.S. ’10, M.S. ’13, Ph.D. ’20), became a member of the Wilder School community when she began her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 2006. Three Wilder School degrees later, she's now a research support specialist with the Wilder School Survey and Evaluation Research Lab.
News / January 25, 2023

Wilder School triple graduate Cydney Lowenstein brings data analysis expertise to the Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory

Cydney Lowenstein (B.S. ’10, M.S. ’13, Ph.D. ’20), became a member of the Wilder School community when she began her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 2006. Three Wilder School degrees later, she quickly advanced to a position as research support specialist where she continues to demonstrate her broad range of expertise today as part of the Wilder School’s Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory.

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News / January 19, 2023

Bob Holsworth explores recent election trends and looks to the future of politics in Virginia and nationally

Holsworth analyzes the 2022 election results and examines implications for the 2023 General Assembly races in Virginia and national contest

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News / January 18, 2023

VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll reveals half of Virginians approve of President Biden’s handling of his job

Poll respondents also favor Biden’s student loan forgiveness proposal by a small margin.

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66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder is the nation's first African-American Governor.
News / January 11, 2023

Long live the “Son of Virginia”: 66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder turns 92

Gov. L. Douglas Wilder celebrates his 92nd birthday on Jan. 17

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Walking in an urban green space (right) with two-lane roads with pedestrian road crossings, trees, residences with yards and small parks reduced stress more than walking in an urban gray space (left), characterized by a four-lane road with heavy traffic, a flat wide sidewalk next to shops and restaurants and minor pedestrian road crossings, according to a new study. (Courtesy of Jeremy S. Hoffman)
News / January 6, 2023

Walking in urban green spaces is better for us than walking in gray spaces says Wilder School research

Adjunct professor of urban and regional planning Jeremy Hoffman describes how we can get more out of our city walks — and how cities can be designed to reduce stress and improve health.

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News / January 4, 2023

Wilder School Lunch and Learn - Elections: 2022 and Beyond with Bob Holsworth, Ph.D.

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs to kick off 2023 with a virtual Lunch and Learn session that will illuminate future directions in government. Renowned political scientist Bob Holsworth, Ph.D., will analyze the 2022 election results and examine the implications for the 2023 General Assembly races in Virginia and the national contests in 2024.

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News / January 5, 2023

Wilder School Commonwealth Poll reveals Gov. Youngkin’s approval rating, Virginians’ declining perceptions on the value of a college education

53% of those polled support governor’s involvement in issues of education, crime and inflation.

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66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder and Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden (center) pose with the 2022 Excellence in Virginia Governance Award honorees.
News / December 19, 2022

VCU Wilder School events: a year of critical discussions and dialogues

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs offers experiential learning opportunities to engage the VCU community through symposia, lectures and the expert-led Wilder Lunch and Learn series. Here are some of the intriguing conversations of 2022:  (click on the links in bold to learn more)

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Eva McDonnell explores the
News / December 19, 2022

VCU Wilder School students: A year in review of these "future-focused" young minds

VCU Wilder School students show compassion for others through advocacy for urban planning and environmental advocacy; finding solutions to the effects of climate change and building relationships within their diverse communities.  Here’s a look at some of our top stories from 2022 which showcase how students are working to make an impact (click on the links in bold to learn more).

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From left to right: Wilder School alumnus David Hinton Jr., a 2021 10 under 10 recipient, poses with Darrion Holloway, Dhara Minesh Amin and Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School.
News / December 19, 2022

Wilder School alumni profiles: A changemakers’ year in review

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth is ranked No. 35 in the nation among public affairs graduate schools and No. 1 in Virginia. Our alumni (10,000 strong) open doors to the Wilder School network at Fortune 500 companies, local governments, advocacy groups and public interest firms.  Our graduates go on to amazing things and we’re proud to share their accomplishments. Here are our top alumni stories of 2022:  (click on the links in bold to learn

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Chernoh Wurie, a criminal justice instructor at the VCU Wilder School, with his class.
News / December 16, 2022

Wilder School faculty and research profiles: A year in review

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs has a dedicated cadre of world-class faculty who are renowned for their expertise and committed to research which has a global impact.  Beyond academia, these researchers are further engaged in developing community-driven solutions to transform our world.

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Lee Pambid is director of community development for the Town of Farmville, Va. He is also the founder of a co-founder and past board member of Charitable Souls Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit that organizes initiatives to support unhoused and economically-disadvantaged individuals.
News / December 12, 2022

Wilder School Alumni Changemaker: Leander “Lee” Pambid grows communities through intentional planning

As director of community development for the Town of Farmville, Va., Lee Pambid oversees a wide variety of projects to help the area thrive. A dedicated public servant, Pambid’s career in local government spans 23 years.

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Slums, or informal settlements like these in Delhi, India, often lacking adequate access to essential services like connection lines to sewage systems.
News / November 30, 2022

Water systems research receives Wilder School Faculty Small Grant

Shruti Syal will use a Wilder School Faculty Small Grant to expand water access and equity in Delhi, India

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Urban development in Richmond is a history of deliberate, racially-charged displacement of entire communities.
News / November 30, 2022

Urban redevelopment researchers receive Wilder School Faculty Small Grant

Associate Professors Meghan Gough and Kathryn Howell aim to examine racial inequity in the urban planning of southern cities and seek opportunities for reparative approaches.

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As the founding president and CEO of Policy Pathways, Inc., a nonprofit offering educational programs to young people with an interest in policy-related studies, Lucas fosters passions in the minds of burgeoning leaders in Richmond and beyond.
News / November 21, 2022

Alumni Changemaker: D. Pulane Lucas, Ph.D. paves the way for future policy leaders with Policy Pathways, Inc.

D. Pulane Lucas’ (Ph.D.’13, Cert.’18) career began in the fourth grade. A newspaper article sparked a passion for the policy world, and she is now an established trailblazer in the field. As the founding president and CEO of Policy Pathways, Inc., a nonprofit that offers educational programs to young people with an interest in policy-related studies, Lucas is fostering that same passion in the minds of burgeoning leaders in Richmond and beyond.

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Internships with the Henrico County Division of Police, Virginia State Police and the U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency have prepared Hirsh to launch a career in intelligence.
News / November 18, 2022

Future-focused: Undergraduate Evan Hirsh selected as Wilder School Fall 2022 Commencement speaker

Early on, Evan Hirsh knew he was cut out for a career in public service. Now concluding his final semester at the Wilder School, Hirsh’s plans are coming to fruition — but not in the way he initially imagined.

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News / November 17, 2022

Housing very- and extremely low-income individuals and families with Calvin C. Johnson

In this presentation, Calvin C. Johnson, Ph.D., described patterns of worst-case housing needs, sharing why HUD’s major rental assistance programs are a safety net for only a fraction of extremely- and very low-income renters. He highlighted patterns of homelessness that are inextricably tied to worst-case housing needs.

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A dozen Wilder School faculty, staff, students and alumni will gather to present their scholarship at the 2022 Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) Fall Research Conference in Washington, D.C. this week.
News / November 15, 2022

Wilder School dozen to attend and present at 2022 APPAM

A dozen Wilder School faculty, staff, students and alumni will gather to present their scholarship at the 2022 Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) Fall Research Conference in Washington D.C., Nov. 17-19. A perennial favorite for those in the field, APPAM, brings together public policy scholars, students and research institutes to share their insights on a wide variety of current and emerging policy and management issues

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Researchers found that prior contact with the most punitive punishments in the juvenile system — such as incarceration — were significantly associated with recidivism. (Getty Images)
News / November 14, 2022

Virginia youth from areas with high rates of crime and economic disadvantage are at the highest risk of recidivism, VCU study finds

The study by Wilder School researchers provides data that can inform policies to reduce youth recidivism across Virginia.

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News / November 16, 2022

Wilder School November Lunch and Learn: “Housing Very and Extremely Low-Income Individuals and Families”

Calvin C. Johnson, Ph.D., Deputy Assistant Secretary for Research, Evaluation and Monitoring, Office of Policy Development and Research (PD&R) at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

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Christopher ‘CJ’  Howard, one of the nation’s foremost architects and opinion leaders on reclaiming racially-charged statues, memorials, and heritage buildings, delivered the 2022 Morton B. Gulak Lecture in Urban and Regional Planning on Oct. 27.
News / November 7, 2022

Scholar CJ Howard sees Richmond as an unparalleled model for racial reconciliation 

Christopher ‘CJ’  Howard, one of the nation’s foremost architects and opinion leaders on reclaiming racially-charged statues, memorials, and heritage buildings, delivered the 2022 Morton B. Gulak Lecture in Urban and Regional Planning on Oct. 27. 

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From left to right: Wilder School alumnus David Hinton Jr., a 2021 10 under 10 recipient, poses with Darrion Holloway, Dhara Minesh Amin and Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School.
News / October 31, 2022

Two Wilder School alumni recognized with VCU 10 under 10 awards

VCU Alumni’s 10 Under 10 awards program recognizes the noteworthy and distinctive achievements made by alumni who earned their first VCU degree (undergraduate, graduate or professional) within the past 10 years. This year, two Wilder School alumni were recognized as honorees during an Oct. 29 ceremony.

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News / November 2, 2022

Wilder School to host Fall 2022 Graduation

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs is pleased to host an in-person ceremony honoring its August and December 2022 graduates on Saturday, December 10. The ceremony, which is an open admission event, will be held at the Greater Richmond Convention Center located at 403 N 3rd St, Richmond, VA from 1:30 - 3:00 pm EST.

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The Wilder School was well-represented at NASPAA. From left to right: Myung Jin, Curtis Brown, Brie Haupt, RaJade Berry-James, Susan Gooden, Dietra Trent and Shajuana Isom-Payne
News / October 26, 2022

NASPAA Conference demonstrates Wilder School expertise

For the first time in two years, the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration returned to an in-person conference in Chicago. NASPAA is the globally recognized accreditor of master's degree programs in public policy and administration and is dedicated to providing education and training for public service and promoting the ideals of public service.

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Julia Tracy (second row, far right) was selected to participate in the 2021-2022 Capitol Semester program, where she gained experience in environment policy planning.
News / October 25, 2022

Future-focused: Julia Tracy takes an interdisciplinary approach to environmentalism

Growing up in the small coastal town of Norfolk Virginia, Julia Tracy witnessed firsthand the effects of climate change. Now an undergraduate student in the Wilder School’s urban and regional studies and planning (URP) program, Tracy is taking on these challenges at the intersection of policy, environmental science, and urban planning.

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News / October 21, 2022

October Lunch and Learn Recap: "What's a "Major Question?: Changes in U.S. Supreme Court Administrative Law Rulings and Their Impact on the Federal Bureaucracy" with Dr. John Aughenbaugh

What is the major questions doctrine? How might it affect future executive branch policy initiatives? Dr. John Aughenbaugh explored these concepts during an October Lunch and Learn hosted by the VCU Wilder School on Supreme Court administrative law rulings.

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Rajade Berry James, a professor and senior associate dean of faculty and academic affairs at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, has been named the vice president of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA).  NASPAA is the national and international accrediting body for Master’s degree programs in public administration, public policy,
News / October 21, 2022

Wilder School's RaJade Berry-James Elected Vice President/President of NASPAA

RaJade Berry James, a professor and senior associate dean of faculty and academic affairs at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, has been named the vice president of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA). NASPAA is the national and international accrediting body for Master’s degree programs in public administration, public policy, and public affairs.

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John Moeser, Ph.D., a professor emeritus at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU, Moeser was a founding member of the Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program at VCU and was active in the Richmond community as an advocate and scholar on race, politics and power. (Photo courtesy of University of Richmond)
News / October 20, 2022

John Moeser, ‘advocate for a more just society’ and VCU urban studies trailblazer, dies at 79

Moeser was a founding member of VCU’s Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program and the co-author of an influential book that revealed how Richmond’s planning policies placed Black residents at a disadvantage based on race.

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Myra Goodman Smith, president and CEO of Leadership Metro Richmond, has made a name for herself through her unwavering commitment to helping others.
News / October 17, 2022

Alumni Changemaker: Myra Goodman Smith

For Myra Goodman Smith (B.S.,’82, M.P.A., ’84), public service is her life’s work. From her days as a volunteer candy striper at MCV hospital at the age of fourteen to her current position as President and CEO of Leadership Metro Richmond, Smith has made a name for herself through her unwavering commitment to helping others. 

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The Equity Summit saw a strong Wilder School presence. From left to right: Blue Wooldridge, RaJade Berry-James, Anthony Starke, alumna Sesha Joi-Moon ('08 MS), Susan Gooden, Elizabeth Harden, Sophie Webb, Keandra Davis and Sombo Muzata.
News / October 11, 2022

Equity Summit Launches Journal of Social Equity and Public Administration

More than 70 social equity scholars from across the globe gathered in Charlottesville, Va. at the Morven Farm for the 2022 Equity Summit. The summit was organized to bring social equity experts together for collaboration and officially launch the Journal of Social Equity and Public Administration. JSEPA seeks to become a collaborative voice that combines equity research and practice in public policy.

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Melani Monje Riberth (with arm outstretched) participates in a scenario drill at the Basic Summer Jailors Academy.
News / October 4, 2022

Future-focused: Melani Monje Riberth gains hands-on experience through Summer Jailor Academy

Undergraduate criminal justice student Melani Monje Riberth put her security, defense, administrative, investigative and forensic skills to the test at the 10th Basic Summer Jailor Academy.

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In addition to his Army National Guard post, Chernoh Wurie has served as a patrol officer, crisis intervention team member, crime scene technician and police planner.
News / October 3, 2022

Boots on the ground: Chernoh Wurie adds Army National Guard to a growing list of professional experiences

Assistant Professor Chernoh Wurie joins Army National Guard

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News / September 28, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Learn "What's a "Major Question?: Changes in U.S. Supreme Court Administrative Law Rulings and Their Impact on the Federal Bureaucracy"

In recent U.S. Supreme Court terms, the Court has used the major questions doctrine to invalidate executive branch policy initiatives. In this month's Lunch and Learn, Dr. John Aughenbaugh from VCU's Political Science Department will discuss what the major questions doctrine is and how the doctrine might impact federal government executive branch policy initiatives in the future.

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Anbu Arumugan, Senior Assistant Professor of Public Administration at the Government Arts College in Chennai, India.
News / September 28, 2022

Oct. 5: 2022 Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series: Professional Development for Early Career Researchers

Join Anbu Arumugan, Senior Assistant Professor of Public Administration at the Government Arts College in Chennai, India, for a discussion of research in the international context.

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Donna Michaelis, Director of the Division of Public Safety Training and the Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety at the Virginia Department of Criminal Justices Services
News / September 23, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Lunch explores school safety

How can schools more effectively respond to mass shootings and firearm violence? What does it take to successfully plan and implement programs to prepare and train teachers, administrators and students? These are questions Donna Michaelis answered during a discussion on best practices to plan for and respond to emergencies in Commonwealth schools. She shared a Virginia-based public safety model that can be adopted nationwide. 

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66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder and Susan Gooden, dean of the Wilder School
News / September 21, 2022

2022 Wilder Symposium recap - "‘I had no choice’ but to help them"

L. Douglas Wilder spoke about his work as an attorney representing the family of Bruce Tucker, whose heart was transplanted without his or his family’s knowledge or consent at the Medical College of Virginia in 1968.

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Urban and regional planning graduate student Eric King is passionate about incorporating sustainability and planning.
News / September 20, 2022

Future-focused: Eric King envisions environmental equity

An urban and regional planning graduate student at the Wilder School, Eric King is pursuing a career in building climate resilience from the ground up at the local level by tackling issues such as flood prevention and rising temperatures in urban areas.

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Aerial view of Chicago skyline from Lincoln Park.
News / September 28, 2022

2022 NASPAA Wilder School presentations

Wilder School faculty and staff—including Wilder School Dean and Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) President Susan Gooden, Ph.D.— will offer nearly a dozen presentations, panels and charrettes during the 2022 NASPAA Conference. The conference is the signature annual event of NASPAA, the preeminent organization of institutions dedicated to public policy and public affairs education, which includes 327 institutional members and universities across the globe.

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VCU Police, in partnership with the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute, have launched the
News / September 19, 2022

Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute team of faculty and staff works with police to develop Whistles Against Street Harassment initiative

Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute team of faculty and staff works with police to develop Whistles Against Street Harassment initiative.

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Gennaro Milo poses with Jill Biden when he volunteered with Joseph Biden's presidential campaign.
News / August 31, 2022

Future-focused: Gennaro Milo helps set the stage for a safer future

By formulating and analyzing disaster prevention measures and strategies Milo is helping assist communities and organizations before, during and after emergencies. Ensuring effective and equitable responses requires flexibility when the unthinkable occurs — from natural disasters like earthquakes to terrorist attacks and cybersecurity breaches.

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Donna Michaelis, Director of the Division of Public Safety Training and the Virginia Center for School and Campus Safety at the Virginia Department of Criminal Justices Services
News / August 31, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Learn "Preparing for School Safety: Virginia as a National Model"

Join Donna Michaelis for a discussion on best practices to plan for and respond to emergencies in Commonwealth schools. She’ll share her expertise and demonstrate a Virginia-based public safety model that can be adopted nationwide. 

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Moon earned a bachelor’s degree in African American Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University, a master’s from the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU.
News / August 25, 2022

Alum Sesha Joi Moon ‘working with purpose and on purpose’ as leader of diversity, equity and inclusion at U.S. Capitol

Moon, a two-time VCU graduate who this summer became the director of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Office of Diversity and Inclusion, encourages students to have ‘equal parts patience and perseverance’ as they embark on their careers.

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Jovan Burton, M.P.A.’21
News / August 23, 2022

Wilder School Alumni Changemaker: Jovan Burton

Housing accessibility has a complicated and storied history in the Richmond region, and it’s a past Jovan Burton (M.P.A.’21) is working to transform. As the executive director of the Partnership for Housing Affordability (PHA), a nonprofit dedicated to advancing affordable housing policies and programs, Burton is a tireless advocate for fostering diverse, equitable and inclusive communities.

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Eva McDonnell explores the
News / August 4, 2022

Future-focused: Undergraduate Eva McDonnell pursues lifelong goal of a career in criminal justice

As a senior at VCU pursuing dual majors in criminal justice and psychology as well as an accelerated master’s degree in criminal justice, rising to the challenge to develop her education and understanding has been a key priority for her and her family. 

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News / August 1, 2022

Alumni spotlight: Meet Joe Damico, M.P.A. ’97, M.P.H. ’00

Discipline and military structure led to a career in public service

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The Commonwealth Poll featured landline and mobile telephone interviews from June 30 through July 9, 2022, with a representative sample of 813 adult Virginia residents.
News / July 28, 2022

Commonwealth Poll: Virginians disapprove of President Biden but satisfied with status of Virginia’s abortion laws

Biden approval at only 39%, while half of respondents say Virginia’s abortion laws are reasonable.

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The Commonwealth Poll featured landline and mobile telephone interviews from June 30 through July 9, 2022, with a representative sample of 813 adult Virginia residents.
News / July 26, 2022

Commonwealth Poll: Gov. Youngkin’s approval at 49%; Virginians support tax relief policies, funding for HBCUs and innovation lab schools

Youngkin’s approval is split by party and region, but support for gas tax holiday, ending grocery tax, funding HBCUs and new lab schools is strong across all demographics.

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Basil Gooden, Ph.D., Director of State Operations for USDA Rural Development
News / July 21, 2022

"Exploring the Resurgence of Rural America" with Basil Gooden

One in five Americans now lives in a small town. An unexpected result of the pandemic has been a steady increase in talent moving to rural areas as people reexamine their values, connections to family and work-life balance. What is next in this resurgence of rural America? 

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In recent years, Keener’s own research has focused on the structural barriers to re-entry for previously incarcerated parents and the intersection between mental health and the criminal justice system.
News / July 14, 2022

Wilder School Alumni Changemaker: Steven Keener

Criminal justice scholar Steven Keener shares his passion for the transformational power of education.

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Following the Supreme Court's ruling on Dobbs v. Jackson, Americans in a number of states are expected to face changes in access to reproductive health resources. VCU experts share what impacts they expect from this Supreme Court decision. (Getty Images)
News / June 30, 2022

Exploring the impact of Dobbs v. Jackson with Sarah Jane Brubaker

Brubaker, a professor of criminal justice and public policy and administration and director of VCU’s certificate in gender violence intervention at the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, studies sexual and domestic violence, gender violence and reproductive and sexual health in connection with criminal justice and public policy.

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Wilder School alumna Sesha Joi Moon has been named the new director of the House of Representatives Office of Diversity and Inclusion.
News / June 28, 2022

Pelosi names Wilder School Alumna Sesha Joi Moon to House Diversity Office

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced the appointment of Wilder School alumna Sesha Joi Moon as the new director of the House of Representatives Office of Diversity and Inclusion on Monday. Congress established the nonpartisan, independent office Moon will head in 2019 to improve the recruitment, retention and development of a diverse House workforce, to act as a resource for House offices, and to increase awareness of diversity issues among House staff.

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Katharine Bond, vice-president for public policy and state affairs at Dominion Energy, will discuss the economic trends shaping our future.
News / June 28, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Learn recap - Rising Costs, Rising Inflation: Making Sense of the Economy

Across the country, Americans are struggling with rising prices and inflation on everyday goods, from gas to groceries. What are the economic factors contributing to this situation and how can we make sense of it?  These are topics Katharine Bond, vice-president for public policy and state affairs at Dominion Energy, addressed during a timely discussion on navigating the trends that are shaping our pocketbooks and future plans.

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Basil Gooden, Ph.D., Director of State Operations for USDA Rural Development
News / June 28, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Learn “The Resurgence of Rural America” with Basil Gooden

One in five Americans now lives in a small town. An unexpected result of the pandemic has been a steady increase in talent moving to rural areas as people reexamine their values, connections to family and work-life balance. What is next in this resurgence of rural America? Join Basil Gooden, Ph.D., director of State Operations for USDA Rural Development, for a virtual discussion exploring rural America.

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News / June 27, 2022

Why do school shootings keep happening in the United States?

Will Pelfrey fields questions to address America's gun violence.

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Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden and Distinguished Professor and 66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder, co-founders of the Research Institute for Social Equity, attend a graduation recording at VPM studios on April 21, 2021.
News / June 22, 2022

Research Institute for Social Equity receives $3 million to become thought leader and connector for advancing social justice

The Research Institute for Social Equity in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU, an institute that has contributed to the equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine in Virginia among other efforts, will receive $3 million over the course of two years to continue efforts toward advancing equity to inform public policy, governance and practice to improve conditions for marginalized voices in society.

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Seeking out professional help and resources is a key recommendation for anyone facing eviction.
News / June 15, 2022

Expiration of renters’ protections sparks fear of increased evictions

The RVA Eviction Lab at the VCU L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, which analyzes eviction data across Virginia, forecasts an increase in evictions in coming months.

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“We can trace major incidents that have cost billions of dollars and have affected and threatened our national security, our industries and our infrastructure going back decades,” said Christopher Whyte.
News / May 20, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Learn recap: “Why No Cyber ‘Shock and Awe’? The Digital Dimensions and Implications of Russia's War on Ukraine”

Russia's war against Ukraine has seen widespread use of digital disruption. Western sanctions have set in motion an unprecedented shift in how Russians will use the Internet. But the "cyber blitzkrieg" expected alongside Russia's invasion of Ukraine never happened. What cybersecurity lessons can we learn from the conflict and what can we expect from Russia in the months and years to come?

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Leah Fremouw (B.A.’08/H&S; M.P.A.’10/GPA)  is the inaugural CEO of Bridging Virginia, a financial services institution that drives capital and resources into historically marginalized and underserved business owners in the metropolitan Richmond area. It’s a high-octane, purpose-driven role for the West Virginia native.
News / May 19, 2022

Wilder School Alumni Changemaker: Leah Fremouw

Leah Fremouw (B.A.’08/H&S; M.P.A.’10/GPA) is the inaugural CEO of Bridging Virginia, a financial services institution that drives capital and resources into historically marginalized and underserved business owners in the metropolitan Richmond area. It’s a high-octane, purpose-driven role for the West Virginia native with a large personality and a knack for infusing projects and people with transformational energy.

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Urban and regional planning student LaToya Gray-Sparks' web-based project
News / May 18, 2022

Investigating Richmond’s history of displaced communities

VCU urban planning student’s project capturing the voices of African American communities removed from their homes through a 1946 urban planning effort will become a national resource.

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Katharine Bond, vice-president for public policy and state affairs at Dominion Energy, will discuss the economic trends shaping our future.
News / May 18, 2022

Lunch and Learn June 2022: "Rising Costs, Rising Inflation: Making Sense of the Economy" with Katharine Bond

Across the country, Americans are struggling with rising prices and inflation on everyday goods, from gas to groceries. What are the economic factors contributing to this situation and how can we make sense of it? Join Katharine Bond, vice-president for public policy and state affairs at Dominion Energy, for a timely discussion on navigating the trends that are shaping our pocketbooks and future plans.

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Congratulations to our Plan-Off finalists (left to right): Annie Weidhaas (Overall Best Plan Award), Charlie Wilson, Gabrielle Dean (Grand Prize) and Neal Friedman.
News / May 9, 2022

Plan-Off 2022: Wilder School master of urban and regional studies and planning students envision the future of communities

More than a hundred students, faculty and planning professionals came together for the 2022 Plan-Off annual competition for master of urban and regional planning students.

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“I like to ask thoughtful questions and dig into topics that don’t yet make full sense to me,” Kyrychenko said. “In my free time or when talking to friends about criminal justice topics, I am known for my love of looking things up in the Code of Virginia to learn what exactly a law says and how it came to be that way.”
News / May 5, 2022

Class of 2022: Michael Kyrychenko sets his sights on a public service career in criminal justice

As a criminal justice undergraduate student at the VCU Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Michael Kyrychenko is engaged in his community and prepared for success.

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66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder and Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden (center) pose with the 2022 Excellence in Virginia Governance Award honorees.
News / May 3, 2022

Excellence in Virginia Government Awards honor outstanding public servants of the commonwealth

On Tuesday, April 26, the 15th Excellence in Virginia Government Awards returned in person at the Downtown Richmond Marriott. The L. Douglas Wilder School and VCU leadership proudly celebrated key Virginian public servants who have made noteworthy contributions to the practice of government and the welfare of our communities and citizens.

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The Minority Political Leadership Institute hosted a lunch panel to welcome the 2022 class.
News / May 3, 2022

Minority Political Leadership Institute 2022 class kicks off at the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute

The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at VCU welcomes 27 enrollees for the 2022 class of the Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI). MPLI, a collaborative initiative of the Research Institute for Social Equity and the Virginia Legislative Black Caucus, is an eight-month experience designed to promote leadership development for individuals interested in issues important to minority communities, including community economi

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Join Wilder School Assistant Professor Christopher White for this discussion on international cybersecurity and cyberwarfare.
News / April 25, 2022

Wilder School Lunch and Learn May 2022: Why No Cyber "Shock and Awe"? The Digital Dimensions and Implications of Russia's War on Ukraine

Join Wilder School Assistant Professor Christopher Whyte for this discussion on international cybersecurity and cyberwarfare.

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As an M.P.A. graduate student at the VCU Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Brown transforms her passion for social equity into action.
News / April 21, 2022

Class of 2022: Whitney Brown excels with dedication to public service and her community

As an M.P.A. graduate student at the VCU Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, Brown transforms her passion for social equity into action.

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Jenifer Nunez has been analyzing survey responses and interview transcripts to identify what barriers Latinx patients face when they need dental care. (Tom Kojcsich, University Marketing)
News / April 20, 2022

How a homeland security major ended up contributing to oral health research

Undergraduate Jenifer Nunez broke out of her comfort zone to advocate for Latinx patients.

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ASPA 2022 Recipients Susan Gooden, Blue Wooldridge and Bill Leighty.
News / March 30, 2022

Wilder School stands out with recognition at the American Society for Public Administration conference

Three Wilder School faculty members achieved important senior career distinctions by earning prestigious awards at the annual American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) Conference held in Jacksonville, Fla. March 18-22. The honorees include: Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden, recipient of the Gwendolyn Bullock-Smith Public Service Award; Blue Wooldridge, recipient of the Gloria Hobson Nordin Social Equity Award; and Bill Leighty, recipient of the National Public Service Award.

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The 2023 US News & World Report Rankings reflect the growing national reputation at the Wilder School.
News / March 29, 2022

Wilder School advances in 2023 U.S. News & World Report rankings

The 2023 U.S. News & World Report rankings show the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University rose to No. 35 in the nation among public affairs graduate schools (up from No. 38 in 2022). The Wilder School’s public management and leadership program also climbed to No. 29 (rising from No. 34 in 2022) in the report’s specialty program rankings.

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Jay Albanese traveled to Ukraine in the early 2000's to research post-Soviet Union organized crime.
News / March 28, 2022

Reflections on progress in Ukraine with Jay Albanese

Jay Albanese, a leading researcher in international crime, looks back on his experiences visiting Ukraine

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News / March 24, 2022

Preparing Virginia for cannabis regulation with Greg Felix

What does it take to compete in the recently legalized cannabis industry in Virginia? What are the best ways to effectively navigate policy concerns and regulations across this uncharted landscape? Understanding the business side of marijuana is no small task. Greg Felix joined the Wilder School Lunch and Learn series to share his expertise in the processes, challenges and legal implications required to successfully launch a new industry in the commonwealth.

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Goodson sees significant, systematic progression in police response to victims of intimate partner violence. Getty Images
News / March 14, 2022

Responding effectively to intimate partner violence

Wilder School researcher Amanda Goodson uses a trauma-informed approach to inform law enforcement response strategies to aid victims.

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News / March 9, 2022

Social media provides ‘an instant window into the ravages of war’ in Ukraine

VCU professor Will Pelfrey shares his perspective on social media’s role in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

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Benjamin Young had a rare chance to visit North Korea in 2012. He stands with statues of statues of country leaders Kim Il-Sung on the left and Kim Jong-Il on the right.
News / March 1, 2022

Exploring North Korea’s history and evolving threats

‘With its nuclear weapons, cyber operations and missile systems, North Korea’s asymmetric military capabilities should not be underestimated,’ VCU expert says.

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News / March 1, 2022

Lunch and Learn - Marijuana, Cannabis, Weed: Is Virginia Ready for Regulation?

What does it take to compete in the recently legalized cannabis industry in Virginia? What are the best ways to effectively navigate policy concerns and regulations across this uncharted landscape?

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Join Joe Dillard, Jr., Director of Equitable Innovation and Legislative Policy for the Greater Richmond Transit Company.
News / February 24, 2022

Moving Forward Together: The Road to Transportation Equity in RVA with Joe Dillard

What is the role of transit in shaping equity for individuals and communities?

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ASPA 2022 Recipients Susan Gooden, Blue Wooldridge and Bill Leighty.
News / February 24, 2022

Wooldridge, Leighty and Gooden honored with ASPA career awards

Three faculty members from the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University received national career awards at the annual American Society for Public Administration conference held in Jacksonville, Fl. March 18-22.

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Shajuana Isom-Payne
News / February 23, 2022

Isom-Payne wins NACADA’s regional advising award

The National Academic Advising Association (NACADA), the preeminent global network for academic advising, has named Shajuana Isom-Payne as the recipient of the 2022 Outstanding Advocate for Academic Advising Award for Region 2.

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The new GVPA 100 undergraduate course is instructed by Myung Jin (at right), associate professor and chair of the Master of Public Administration program.
News / February 16, 2022

Exploring public service possibilities with GVPA 100: Making Policy Real

A new Wilder School introductory course helps students to explore a wide range of careers

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The 2023 US News & World Report Rankings reflect the growing national reputation at the Wilder School.
News / February 10, 2022

Nationally-ranked M.P.A. program can now be completed fully online

Wilder School to offer Virginia’s first fully-accredited online program

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Slums, or informal settlements like these in Delhi, India, often lacking adequate access to essential services like connection lines to sewage systems.
News / February 3, 2022

Connecting environmental planning to social equity

Wilder School assistant professor Shruti Syal’s goal is to eliminate wastewater from urban ‘slums"

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Join Joe Dillard, Jr., Director of Equitable Innovation and Legislative Policy for the Greater Richmond Transit Company.
News / January 31, 2022

Wilder School February Lunch & Learn - “Moving Forward Together: The Road to Transportation Equity in RVA”

Wilder School February Lunch & Learn: “Moving Forward Together: The Road to Transportation Equity in RVA”

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Wilder School Spotlight / December 17, 2015

Meet Lindsey Evans

When Lindsey Evans learned of the work in social equity that faculty members at VCU were engaged in, she knew that the Wilder School would be a good fit for her.

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Welcome to the VCU Leadership Development Program Class of 2022.
News / January 31, 2022

Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute at the Wilder School announces VCU Leadership Development Program Class of 2022

The VCU Leadership Development Program is a collaborative effort to increase the skills of current and emerging campus leaders to bring together top university talent to improve the VCU community.

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Proud of his alma mater, LeQuan Hylton shares his VCU spirit with daughters Carter (left) and Emory (right).
News / January 26, 2022

Changemakers Alumni Spotlight: LeQuan Hylton

Increasing access to low-income housing through sustainable real estate

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Whitney Brown, a second-year graduate student in Public Administration, has been selected as a 2022 Founders’ Fellow by the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA).
News / January 24, 2022

Public Administration’s Whitney Brown named ASPA Founders Fellow

Whitney Brown, a second-year graduate student in Public Administration, has been selected as a 2022 Founders’ Fellow by the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA).

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On January 19, 2022, Miles Rapoport, senior practice fellow in American democracy at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School, led a spirited discussion based on the report “Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century.”
News / January 21, 2022

Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy with Miles Rapoport

On January 19, 2022, Miles Rapoport, senior practice fellow in American democracy at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School, led a spirited discussion based on the report “Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century.”

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Chong Mo Pak, a former VCU professor, helped transform public service leadership education in Virginia.
News / January 14, 2022

A Leader among leaders: Remembering Chong Mo Pak

Chong Mo Pak, a former VCU professor, helped transform public service leadership education in Virginia.

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Poll finds Virginians split on their views about the direction of the commonwealth.
News / January 14, 2022

Poll: Close election reveals divided priorities among Virginians

As Gov.-elect Glenn Youngkin prepares to be inaugurated as the 74th governor, the close election and divided legislature highlight policy differences among Virginians according to a new statewide Commonwealth Poll conducted by the Wilder School.

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More than half of Virginians support increasing the number of charter schools.
News / January 11, 2022

Poll: Virginians want the General Assembly to focus on education and the economy

As the Virginia General Assembly prepares to start the 2022 legislative session, a new statewide Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University finds that Virginians want legislators to focus on education and the economy.

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Join Miles Rapoport, senior practice fellow in American democracy at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School, for a timely discussion based on the report “Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century” on January 19.
Events / January 4, 2022

Wilder School Virtual Lunch and Learn: Our Common Purpose - Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century

Join Miles Rapoport, senior practice fellow in American democracy at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School, for a timely discussion based on the report “Our Common Purpose: Reinventing American Democracy for the 21st Century” on January 19.

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Marching in the footsteps of history up the slave trail, students are able to trace a connection to Richmond’s past.
News / January 3, 2022

‘A form of modern-day slavery’: examining the effects of human trafficking

An immersive course at the Wilder School raises awareness for students and connects them to the past and present in Richmond.

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Jay Albanese, Ph.D., is one of two recipients of the 2022 Outstanding Faculty Awards
News / December 16, 2021

Jay Albanese receives Outstanding Faculty Award

The award, sponsored by the State Council of Higher Education and Dominion Energy, is Virginia’s highest honor for faculty at public and private colleges and universities.

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The 2021 Wilder School Fall Commencement student speaker is VCU police officer and criminal justice undergraduate, Caroline Bowen.
Wilder School Spotlight / December 6, 2021

Wilder School Spotlight: Caroline Bowen, VCU police officer and criminal justice undergraduate

The 2021 Wilder School Fall Commencement student speaker is VCU police officer and criminal justice undergraduate, Caroline Bowen.

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Matthew Hussmann. “I come from a development background that thinks about dollar amounts. Urban studies is about change for the betterment of people.” (Kevin Morley, University Marketing)
News / December 2, 2021

Class of 2021: Matthew Hussmann wants to focus on bringing positive change to communities

The real estate broker has long had a passion for building. Now, as a graduate of VCU’s urban and regional studies and planning program, he is looking at his career in a new way.

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Dr. Jay Albanese, professor in the Wilder School, received the Freda Adler Distinguished Scholar Award at the meeting of the American Society of Criminology in Chicago.
Faculty News / November 29, 2021

Albanese Receives Freda Adler Distinguished Scholar Award

Dr. Jay Albanese, professor in the Wilder School, received the Freda Adler Distinguished Scholar Award at the meeting of the American Society of Criminology in Chicago.

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On Nov. 17, 2021, Bob Holsworth, Ph.D., a respected political scientist, spoke at a virtual Lunch and Learn Series event hosted by the Wilder School.
News / November 19, 2021

Election analysis 2021 and looking to the future with Bob Holsworth

On Nov. 17, 2021, Bob Holsworth, Ph.D., a respected political scientist, spoke at a virtual Lunch and Learn Series event hosted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. His presentation, “2021 Virginia Elections Analysis and What’s Ahead,” explored contributing factors that led to the election of Glenn Youngkin and the failures that loosened Democrats’ hold on the state.

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The Wilder School's Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree program has received full renewal of its accreditation, as informed by the Planning and Accreditation Board.
News / November 16, 2021

Wilder School Master of Urban and Regional Planning program receives accreditation renewal

The Wilder School's Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree program has received full renewal of its accreditation, as informed by the Planning and Accreditation Board.

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Born and raised in Fairfax, VA, Farjan Billah believed that attending Virginia Commonwealth University was a natural plan for him, but his journey faced numerous challenges with unexpected twists and turns.
Wilder School Spotlight / November 15, 2021

Wilder School Spotlight: Farjan Billah, HSEP undergraduate

Born and raised in Fairfax, VA, Farjan Billah believed that attending Virginia Commonwealth University was a natural plan for him, but his journey faced numerous challenges with unexpected twists and turns.

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A young child receives a vaccine shot.
News / November 10, 2021

Advocating for health equity for children’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout: a grassroots case study in Washington D.C.

On Oct. 20, when the Biden administration released guidelines for distributing COVID vaccines to children 5-11, Sarah Raskin, had some immediate concerns, as a healthcare policy expert, as a community volunteer and as a mom.

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Congratulations to our graduates!
Events / November 9, 2021

Wilder School to host in-person Commencement

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs is pleased to host an in-person ceremony honoring our August and December 2021 graduates. 2020 and Spring 2021 graduates are welcomed to attend and will be honored as well.

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A Mechanicsville-native, Sarah Pritchard found herself not too far from home, yet gaining the real-world experience she longed for at the Wilder School at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Wilder School Spotlight / November 3, 2021

Wilder School Spotlight: Sarah Pritchard, urban and regional studies undergraduate

A Mechanicsville-native, Sarah Pritchard found herself not too far from home, yet gaining the real-world experience she longed for at the Wilder School at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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The dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is now head of the world’s largest accrediting body for public affairs programs.
News / October 29, 2021

Susan Gooden is the new president of NASPAA

The dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is now head of the world’s largest accrediting body for public affairs programs.

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Join respected political scientist, Robert
Events / October 28, 2021

November Lunch and Learn: 2021 Virginia Elections Analysis and What’s Ahead

Join respected political scientist, Robert "Bob" Holsworth, Ph.D., for a discussion on the results of the 2021 Virginia election and what it means for our citizens at the Wilder School's November virtual Lunch and Learn.

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Virginia’s gubernatorial election is nearly tied with 41% of likely voters supporting Democrat Terry McAuliffe and 38% supporting Republican Glenn Youngkin, according to the latest statewide poll conducted by the Wilder School.
News / October 26, 2021

Poll: Virginia’s elections are too close to call

Virginia’s gubernatorial election is nearly tied with 41% of likely voters supporting Democrat Terry McAuliffe and 38% supporting Republican Glenn Youngkin, according to the latest statewide poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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James Gilmore, the former U.S. ambassador and leader of the Gilmore Commission, says the country is better prepared to handle threats, but also warns of dangers posed by cyberattacks and misinformation.
News / October 22, 2021

Former Virginia governor: 20 years after 9/11, U.S. is ‘safer’

James Gilmore, the former U.S. ambassador and leader of the Gilmore Commission, says the country is better prepared to handle threats, but also warns of dangers posed by cyberattacks and misinformation.

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News / April 6, 2021

2021 ASPA Wilder School Presentations

Wilder School faculty, students and alumni—including Association Past President and Wilder School Dean, Susan Gooden, Ph.D.— present numerous presentations during the 2021 American Society for Public Administration Conference (ASPA) to be held virtually, April 9 -15.

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Hezha Barzani stands outside of his office at the Atlantic Council in Washington.
News / October 14, 2021

Hezha Barzani, a VCU senior, has a unique perspective on the Afghanistan withdrawal

His family fled the Kurdistan region of Iraq in 1996. Their refugee experience was executed in an efficient manner thanks to Operation Pacific Haven.

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Blythe Balestrieri, PhD., and associate professor at the Wilder School, began her academic career in criminal justice after working as a prison law librarian in graduate school. Photo: David Slipher/VCU
Faculty News / October 14, 2021

Road to research: Blythe Balestrieri

Blythe Balestrieri, PhD., and associate professor at the Wilder School, began her academic career in criminal justice after working as a prison law librarian in graduate school.

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Elsie Harper-Anderson is studying the disproportionate impact on Black workers and businesses by analyzing industry trends, unemployment data and business performance metrics by race.
News / October 13, 2021

Exploring racial inequality in Virginia during COVID-19

Elsie Harper-Anderson is studying the disproportionate impact on Black workers and businesses by analyzing industry trends, unemployment data and business performance metrics by race.

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News / October 11, 2021

October Lunch and Learn with Jim Gilmore

James S. “Jim” Gilmore III, former U.S. ambassador to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, is the featured speaker for the October virtual Lunch and Learn.

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Wilder School graduate David Hinton Jr. (B.A.’12/GPA; M.Ed.’13/E) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.
News / October 11, 2021

VCU honors Wilder School Graduate David Hinton Jr.

Wilder School graduate David Hinton Jr. (B.A.’12/GPA; M.Ed.’13/E) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.

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News / October 8, 2021

Wilder School in Action Fall 2021 Edition Now Available

The Fall 2021 edition of Wilder School in Action is now available.

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Wilder School graduate Monique Johnson, Ph.D. (Ph.D.’14/GPA) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.
News / October 7, 2021

VCU honors Wilder School Graduate Monique Johnson

Wilder School graduate Monique Johnson, Ph.D. (Ph.D.’14/GPA) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.

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Presenters, many faculty members at the Wilder School, met virtually to discuss the impacts of the pandemic.
News / October 1, 2021

Wilder School Symposium hosts ‘The Triple Pandemic: Implications for Racial Equity and Public Policy’

The 2021 Wilder School Symposium hosted panelist discussions based on a forthcoming book focused on public health, justice and economics, all with an eye toward equity in the face of the pandemic.

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Wilder School graduate Tanya González (M.P.A.’17/GPA) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.
News / September 30, 2021

VCU honors Wilder School Graduate Tanya González

Wilder School graduate Tanya González (M.P.A.’17/GPA) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.

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(top) Brown, Delaney, Demarest, Dougherty, Dwyer (bottom) Foster, Montana, Ramos, Rijhwani, Warf, Woehrle
News / September 28, 2021

Announcing the Class of 2021 Wilder Fellows

The Wilder School is pleased to announce the 2021 cohort of the Wilder Graduate Scholars’ Fellowship Program which includes a talented and dynamic class of eleven students from diverse backgrounds and programs.

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Congratulations to Elsie Harper-Anderson on being named an Entrepreneurship Policy Faculty Fellow by the Association for Policy Analysis & Management (APPAM).
Faculty News / September 28, 2021

Harper-Anderson Named APPAM Entrepreneurship Policy Faculty Fellow

Congratulations to Elsie Harper-Anderson on being named an Entrepreneurship Policy Faculty Fellow by the Association for Policy Analysis & Management (APPAM).

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Virginians indicate concern that new COVID-19 variants will lead to a worsening pandemic.
News / September 27, 2021

Poll: Majority of Virginians support mask mandates

A large majority of Virginians (75%) indicated they are concerned that new COVID-19 variants will lead to a worsening pandemic in their local community, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Ethan Wright, a new Wilder School student
News / September 24, 2021

Meet the Newest Rams - Ethan Wright

Get to know this new Wilder School student and his plans for making the most of his experience.

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Kathryn Howell is an assistant professor in the Wilder School's Urban and Regional Planning program and the co-director of the RVA Eviction Lab.
News / September 23, 2021

RVA Eviction Lab co-founder discusses ongoing research amid pandemic

On Sept. 22, Howell discussed the lab’s ongoing research during the COVID-19 pandemic and fielded questions from the audience at the Wilder School’s monthly Lunch and Learn series.

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In the race to become the next governor of Virginia, 40% of likely voters would vote for Terry McAuliffe while 37% would vote for Glenn Youngkin, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Wilder School at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / September 20, 2021

McAuliffe leads in race for governor

As the margin widens in the governor’s race, the races for lieutenant governor and attorney general are narrowing, according to Wilder School Commonwealth Poll

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News / September 21, 2021

Jennifer Reid awarded a Faculty Fellowship from the VCU Office of the Provost

Jennifer Reid, Ph.D., a senior research associate with the Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory at the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs has been awarded a Faculty Fellowship from the VCU Office of the Provost.

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The Richmond Racial Equity Essays project combines urban planning and governance ideas into a locally sourced collection. Its creators see it as a vital tool to help advance racial equity in the city.
News / September 15, 2021

Essays project envisions an equitable future for Richmond

The Richmond Racial Equity Essays project combines urban planning and governance ideas into a locally sourced collection. Its creators see it as a vital tool to help advance racial equity in the city.

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On the roof of a mosque in the Philippines, David Webber, assistant professor of homeland security and emergency preparedness and assistant program chair, explains his research to survey participants.
Faculty News / September 10, 2021

What can the motivations of terrorists teach us about Afghanistan?

We sat down with David Webber, an assistant professor and assistant chair of homeland security and emergency preparedness at the Wilder School, to learn how to better understand the belief systems that radicalize individuals to join terrorist groups—along with the implications this has for the recent withdrawal of U.S. troops from Afghanistan.

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Nominations for the 2022 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards are open now through November 1, 2021.
News / September 9, 2021

2022 EVGA Nominations Now Open

Nominations for the 2022 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards are open now through November 1, 2021.

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How can machine learning help stop the opioid epidemic? A multidisciplinary VCU research team will gather data to develop predictive treatment policies to help improve community health in Richmond and beyond.
News / September 8, 2021

NSF Grant to Use Data-Driven Machine Learning to Combat Opioid Crisis

How can machine learning help stop the opioid epidemic? A multidisciplinary VCU research team will gather data to develop predictive treatment policies to help improve community health in Richmond and beyond.

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Join us for the 2021 Wilder Symposium: “The Triple Pandemic: Implications for Racial Equity and Public Policy,” presented virtually on Thursday, Sept. 30 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. EST.
News / September 1, 2021

2021 Wilder Symposium presents “The Triple Pandemic: Implications for Racial Equity and Public Policy”

Join us for the 2021 Wilder Symposium: “The Triple Pandemic: Implications for Racial Equity and Public Policy,” presented virtually on Thursday, Sept. 30 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. EST.

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Meghan Gough
News / September 1, 2021

Meghan Gough named VCU East End Cemetery Collaboratory Fellow

Congratulations to Meghan Gough, associate professor of urban and regional planning at the Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. She has been named one of six VCU East End Cemetery Collaboratory Fellows.

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News / August 30, 2021

Experts convene to explore public policy solutions to address health disparities

Speakers, including Virginia’s chief diversity officer, collaborated with policymakers and health care professionals to make plans and improve conditions around health equity for all Virginians.

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A majority of Virginians indicated that they would be willing to pay more in taxes to support public education. (Getty Images)
News / August 27, 2021

Virginians divided on tax increases to support public services

A majority of Virginians indicated that they would be willing to pay more in taxes to support several public services, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Wilder School.

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Events / August 26, 2021

Eviction Across the Commonwealth – What You Need to Know

Kathryn Howell, Ph.D., associate professor in the urban and regional studies and planning program and co-director of the RVA Eviction Lab, is the featured speaker for the September virtual Lunch and Learn.

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News / August 23, 2021

A Message from the Dean: Ready for the Challenge!

Wilder School Dean, Susan T. Gooden welcome students, faculty and staff back for the 2021 fall semester.

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Taliban legitimacy will post challenges for social media companies. Credit: Associated Press
News / August 23, 2021

Professor William Pelfrey to Forbes: Taliban presents new challenges for social media companies

The VCU Wilder School’s own William Pelfrey, professor of homeland security and criminal justice, is featured in a Forbes article exploring the impact on social media companies with the recent Taliban takeover of Afghanistan.

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Addressing the threat of ransomware — and the cybersecurity vulnerabilities that leave us open to it — is “no simple task,” according to a VCU cybersecurity expert. (Getty Images)
News / May 12, 2021

The Colonial Pipeline Attack is a Clear Demonstration of the Threat of Ransomware

Christopher Whyte, Ph.D., an assistant professor in the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program at the Wilder School and co-author of “Understanding Cyber Warfare: Politics, Policy and Strategy,” is an expert in cyber conflict and U.S. cybersecurity policy. Whyte explained why it’s so difficult to protect against ransomware, why the attacks are increasingly common, and what policies might be useful in preventing future attacks.

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In the race to become the next governor of Virginia, 40% of likely voters would vote for Terry McAuliffe while 37% would vote for Glenn Youngkin, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Wilder School at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / August 20, 2021

McAuliffe and Youngkin in a virtual tie in race for governor

In the race to become the next governor of Virginia, 40% of likely voters would vote for Terry McAuliffe while 37% would vote for Glenn Youngkin, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Wilder School at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / August 17, 2021

Albanese: National Academy of Science policing report advises evidence-based approach

Jay Albanese, professor of criminal justice in the Wilder School, recently served as one of six external reviewers from six countries for the National Academy of Sciences report, Policing to Promote the Rule of Law and Protect the Population: An Evidence-based Approach.

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A new VCU Wilder School poll shows that nearly half of Virginians reported experiencing  a mental health downturn due to COVID-19; but nearly half also reported their personal relationships with family and friends have improved.
News / August 12, 2021

Virginians Face Mental Health Struggles But Also See Improvements in Personal Relationships Amid Pandemic

A new VCU Wilder School poll shows that nearly half of Virginians reported experiencing a mental health downturn due to COVID-19; but nearly half also reported their personal relationships with family and friends have improved.

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A new VCU Wilder School poll shows that, despite a rise in coronavirus cases, unvaccinated individuals are becoming less likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
News / August 9, 2021

Vaccine Hesitancy on the Rise Among Unvaccinated Virginians

A new VCU Wilder School poll shows that, despite a rise in coronavirus cases, unvaccinated individuals are becoming less likely to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

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News / July 22, 2021

Windfalls of Recovery Cash Are Heading to State and Local Governments. How Should They Spend It?

Local and state governments are receiving a windfall of federal funds from the American Rescue Plan and previous COVID-19 relief packages. How should government entities go about deciding how to spend this money, with the goal of helping the most people and improving quality of life?

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William “Bill” Leighty (M.B.A.’79/B), senior strategic adviser at the Wilder School, will be the featured speaker for the July Virtual Lunch and Learn.
News / July 15, 2021

The Impact of American Recovery Act Funding on State and Local Government

William “Bill” Leighty (M.B.A.’79/B), senior strategic adviser at the Wilder School, will be the featured speaker for the July Virtual Lunch and Learn.

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Wilder School faculty member Saltanat ‘Salta’ Liebert has received a contract for $114,832 from the Office of New Americans at the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) to conduct a needs assessment to identify barriers to the integration of immigrants in Virginia.
Faculty News / July 14, 2021

Liebert Receives VDSS Contract for Immigration Study

Wilder School faculty member Saltanat ‘Salta’ Liebert has received a contract for $114,832 from the Office of New Americans at the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) to conduct a needs assessment to identify barriers to the integration of immigrants in Virginia.

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A pensive Black woman with a face mask awaiting a job interview.
News / July 7, 2021

Racial and ethnic minorities experience disproportionate economic impacts of COVID-19

New VCU Wilder School poll shows that job loss, furlough, and/or reduced hours and pay have been more common among African-American and Hispanic communities.

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New VCU Wilder School poll shows that African Americans are more likely to vaccinate their children and report favorable views of how elected officials have handled the pandemic in comparison to whites.
News / July 1, 2021

Unvaccinated racial and ethnic minorities in Virginia report they are more likely to get vaccinated than unvaccinated whites

New VCU Wilder School poll shows that African Americans are more likely to vaccinate their children and report favorable views of how elected officials have handled the pandemic in comparison to whites.

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News / July 1, 2021

Plessy vs. Ferguson Aired on American History TV (C-SPAN3)

Our recent Plessy v. Ferguson symposium marking the 125th anniversary since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in the Plessy v. Ferguson aired Sunday on American History TV on C-SPAN3.

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News / June 29, 2021

Isom-Payne Receives Prestigious Advising Award

Congratulations to Wilder School Assistant Dean of Student Success Shajuana Isom-Payne, recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Advising Advocate Award presented by the University Academic Advising Board!

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News / June 23, 2021

Wight Talks the Role of Transportation in a Post-COVID Virginia

The most recent virtual Wilder School Alumni Lunch and Learn featured Amy Wight, Virginia’s assistant secretary of transportation on June 16. Wight’s presentation was entitled “On the Move: Vacations, Work, School — The Role of Transportation in a Post-COVID Virginia” and highlighted transportation challenges faced due to the pandemic and the steps taken to get Virginians back on track.

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News / June 15, 2021

The Role of Public Affairs Higher Education in Terminating Racism and Healing Our Divided Society

Fifty-three years ago the Kerner Commission concluded that poverty and institutionalized racism had created a divided society—"one black, one white—separate and unequal"— a society that had culminated in the devastating riots of the late 1960s. Their report cited education as a critical lever for achieving equity and called for “a new will” to enact sweeping policy changes in education, labor, education, housing and policing that were never implemented.

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Richmond’s recently adopted master plan, which is intended to guide the city’s growth through the next 20 years, has won a national award from the American Planning Association (APA).
News / June 15, 2021

Richmond 300 Named Top Comprehensive Plan in the Nation

Richmond’s recently adopted master plan, which is intended to guide the city’s growth through the next 20 years, has won a national award from the American Planning Association (APA).

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News / June 15, 2021

Brown Selected as 2021 Governor's Fellow

Whitney Brown, a second-year graduate student in public administration at the VCU Wilder School, has been tapped to participate in the Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program.

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News / June 4, 2021

Wight to Discuss The Role of Transportation in a Post-COVID Virginia

The next Wilder School Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation features Amy Wight, Virginia’s assistant secretary of transportation. Join us June 16 to hear her talk, “On the Move: Vacations, Work, School — The Role of Transportation in a Post-COVID Virginia.”

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L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th Governor of Virginia and a Distinguished Professor was the featured guest of the Wilder School’s Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on May 19.
News / May 27, 2021

Leadership... What Do You Produce?

L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th Governor of Virginia and a Distinguished Professor was the featured guest of the Wilder School’s Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on May 19.

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News / May 18, 2021

Join the Wilder School Student Ambassador & Advisory Council!

The Wilder School Student Ambassador & Advisory Council Program is looking for volunteers who wish to represent VCU Wilder School by providing support and participation for special events, campus tours, and other Wilder School special programs.

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Congratulations to our graduates!
News / May 12, 2021

Wilder School Virtual Commencement on May 14

The Wilder School will celebrate its Spring 2021 graduating class with a virtual send off at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 14 via Facebook and YouTube.

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New VCU Wilder School poll shows more than 60% of parents will support having their children vaccinated.
News / May 6, 2021

A majority of Virginia parents are willing to have their children vaccinated

A majority of parents in Virginia are likely to get their children vaccinated, according to the new statewide vaccine poll conducted for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Aaron Berryhill, Marcus Grant, Bonnie G. Mani, Ph.D., Felix Sarfo-Kantanka, Sarah Scarbrough, Ph.D., Mariah Williams (left to right)
News / May 6, 2021

PSRW 2021: Student & Alumni Spotlights

The Wilder School is proud to feature a current student and five alumni during Public Service Recognition Week who have made outstanding achievements in the realm of public service and policy.

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News / May 4, 2021

The History of the Wilder School

Since its inception, the Wilder School has been focused on public and community service in several forms with different degree programs at VCU. Learn more about the school's history during Public Service Recognition week.

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News / May 3, 2021

Plessy v. Ferguson and the Legacy of “Separate but Equal” After 125 Years Virtual Conference

Join us for the Plessy v. Ferguson and the Legacy of “Separate but Equal” After 125 Years virtual conference on Tuesday, May 18 from 12:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. EST.

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Events / April 30, 2021

Governor Wilder to Reflect on Leadership Lessons

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring Governor L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of Virginia and Distinguished Professor on May 19.

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Events / April 30, 2021

Public Service Recognition Week 2021

In commemoration of Public Service Recognition Week, the Wilder School will feature current students and alumni who have made outstanding achievements in the realm of public service and policy on our Wilder School Facebook page. We will also share stories about Governor L. Douglas Wilder’s notable career in public service and our school’s history over the years.

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Anti-racist scholar and activist Ibram Kendi.
News / April 20, 2021

Anti-racist Scholar and Activist Ibram Kendi Headlines Wilder School Sponsored Plenary at 2021 ASPA conference

The Wilder School sponsored a special Anti-Racism Plenary Session featuring National Book Award recipient Ibram Kendi during the 2021 American Society for Public Administration Conference (ASPA) held on April 14. Dean Susan Gooden moderated the discussion as Kendi elaborated on the concept of antiracism, his recent publications and thoughts on reparations and other policy recommendations.

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News / April 20, 2021

2020-21 Wilder School Student Awards & Recognition

The Wilder School Student Awards and Recognition ceremony took place virtually on April 12 and honored students for academic excellence.

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Events / April 13, 2021

Finale doctoral lecture series talk to feature noted researcher, John T. Cooper, Jr.

The final lecture in this academic year’s Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place virtually on Tuesday, April 20 and feature John T. Cooper, Jr., Ph.D., Assistant Vice President for Public Partnership & Outreach and a professor of the practice in the Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning at Texas A&M University.

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News / April 9, 2021

Dean Gooden Opinion Column in Richmond Times-Dispatch

Dean Susan Gooden’s guest opinion column in the Richmond Times-Dispatch reminds readers of the importance of celebrating Virginians who have made extraordinary contributions to the practice of government and the well-being of our communities and citizens.

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News / April 6, 2021

Wilder School to Participate in ASPA 2021 Virtual Conference

This week, thirteen Wilder School faculty, students and alumni—including Association Past President and Wilder School Dean, Susan Gooden, Ph.D.— present numerous presentations during the 2021 American Society for Public Administration Conference (ASPA) to be held virtually, April 9 -15.

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News / April 6, 2021

Leading During a Confluence of Crises

Last month, Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden sat down with two administrators from top schools of planning for a keynote panel hosted by the Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning (ACSP), as part of the association’s 2021 Administrator’s Conference. Gooden was joined by Jim Spencer, vice provost and dean at Louisiana State University Graduate School and Kevin Hamilton, dean of the College of Fine Arts at the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign.

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The Research Institute for Social Equity in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is providing support to Virginia’s efforts to promote equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to disproportionately impacted populations, such as the Black and Hispanic/Latino communities.
News / March 30, 2021

A VCU Wilder School institute is playing a key role in the state’s efforts to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine equitably

The Research Institute for Social Equity in the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is providing support to Virginia’s efforts to promote equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to disproportionately impacted populations, such as the Black and Hispanic/Latino communities.

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The 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings confirm the Wilder School among the top 15% of graduate schools of public affairs at No. 38. The school is also ranked No. 19 in Social Policy, No. 28 in Urban Policy, and No. 34 in Public Management and Leadership.
News / March 30, 2021

Wilder School No. 38 in U.S., Top Ranked in Virginia for Social and Urban Policy

The 2022 U.S. News & World Report rankings confirm the Wilder School among the top 15% of graduate schools of public affairs at No. 38. The school is also ranked No. 19 in Social Policy, No. 28 in Urban Policy, and No. 34 in Public Management and Leadership.

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Excellence in Virginia Government Awards await presentation at the first annual ceremony.
News / March 30, 2021

VCU Wilder School to Honor Excellence in Virginia Government Awards

The Wilder School will honor individuals and organizations in seven categories for contributions to Commonwealth citizens and communities on Thursday, April 15, 2021.

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News / March 23, 2021

2021 VCU Service Recognition Celebration

A total of 22 Wilder School employees will be recognized at the University’s Annual Service Recognition Celebration, including our namesake and distinguished faculty member Governor L. Douglas Wilder who will be recognized for 25 years of service.

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The Alumni Lunch and Learn series featured M. Norman Oliver, who said the state is in a race against the two new COVID-19 variants.
News / March 18, 2021

‘We’re in a race to vaccinate people,’ says Virginia Health Commissioner at Wilder School Event

The Alumni Lunch and Learn series featured M. Norman Oliver, who said the state is in a race against the two new COVID-19 variants.

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The university community congratulates Wilder School Dean and Professor Dr. Susan Gooden, the 2021 recipient of the Charles H. Levine Memorial Award for Excellence in Public Administration.
News / March 16, 2021

Dean Gooden to Receive Prized Public Administration Award

The university community congratulates Wilder School Dean and Professor Susan Gooden, Ph.D., the 2021 recipient of the Charles H. Levine Memorial Award for Excellence in Public Administration.

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News / March 10, 2021

2018 Class of MPLI Publish Food Insecurity Findings

Members of the 2018 cohort of the Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) have published new findings on food insecurity in Virginia in the Journal of Public Management and Social Policy (JMPSP).

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News / March 10, 2021

Wilder School Alumni Among Fulbright Semifinalists

Wilder School alumna Anna Connor as well as an additional student are among a list of 13 VCU students and alumni selected to advance to the final round of consideration for a Fulbright U.S. Student grant for the 2021-22 academic year.

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VCU Wilder School graduate students, Darshan Parikh, Frances Stadlin and Whitney Brown, and their respective teams, placed first and third in the NASPAA-Batten Student Simulation Competition.
News / March 8, 2021

VCU Wilder School Grad Students Take First and Third Place in International ‘Pandemic 2.0’ Simulation Competition

VCU Wilder School graduate students, Darshan Parikh, Whitney Brown and Frances Stadlin, and their respective teams, placed first and third in the NASPAA-Batten Student Simulation Competition.

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Events / March 8, 2021

Virginia’s COVID-19 Vaccine Planning and Administration Response

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on March 17 about the state of Virginia’s COVID-19 vaccine campaign and administration response, featuring M. Norman Oliver, M.D., M.A., commissioner for the Virginia Department of Health.

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News / March 10, 2021

Fear, Faulty Equations and Uneven Public Policy: The Real Drivers of Pandemic Economic Decline

William Spriggs, a professor of economics at Howard University and chief economist of the AFL-CIO, joined the latest installment of the Wilder School’s Alumni Lunch and Learn Series on February 17 to address the coronavirus pandemic and the economy.

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Faculty News / February 16, 2021

Keck Talks Safety during COVID-19

Wilder School Professor James W. Keck was featured in WalletHub's recent article about the Safest States during COVID 19.

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Interns at the Virginia State Capitol this legislative session are doing most of their work virtually. It’s still “a very cool experience,” they said.
News / February 11, 2021

At the General Assembly (sort of) with VCU’s capitol semester students

Interns at the Virginia State Capitol this legislative session are doing most of their work virtually as part of the Virginia Capitol Semester internship program, offered every spring through the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.

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A VCU virtual event Feb. 18 will feature the research of young people from Richmond-area community organizations into local eviction and housing instability.
News / February 10, 2021

Richmond-area youth to present research into impact of eviction in Richmond

The RVA Eviction Lab and VCU School of Social Work will host a virtual event Feb. 18 at which three teams of young people from Richmond-area community organizations will present the findings of research they have conducted over the past year into eviction and housing instability in Richmond.

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News / February 9, 2021

Racial and Ethical Dilemmas in Planning – And What We Can Do About It

Our cities weren’t created equal. But they don’t have to stay that way. June Manning Thomas, a noted scholar and Centennial Professor Emerita at the University of Michigan got candid about the racial and ethical challenges faced by planning professors and professionals during the Wilder School’s Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy on February 4.

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Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on February 17 about economic recovery related to the pandemic featuring William Spriggs, Ph.D., professor of economics at Howard University and chief economist at the AFL-CIO.
Events / February 9, 2021

Economic Recovery and the Pandemic

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on February 17 about economic recovery related to the pandemic featuring William Spriggs, Ph.D., professor of economics at Howard University and chief economist at the AFL-CIO.

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Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring VCU President Emeritus Eugene P. Trani, Ph.D., and John T. Kneebone, Ph.D., VCU associate professor emeritus of history.
News / January 26, 2021

Trani and Kneebone discuss new book

A discussion with VCU President Emeritus Eugene P. Trani, Ph.D., and John T. Kneebone, Ph.D., VCU associate professor emeritus of history, led by VCU Libraries Dean Emeritus John Ulmschneider, kicked off the 2021 season of the Wilder School’s Alumni Lunch and Learn series on Friday, January 22.

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Crowds gathered throughout the summer in Richmond and across the country to protest police brutality and systemic racism. (Kevin Morley, University Marketing)
News / January 15, 2021

Majority say General Assembly special session failed to address systemic racism

Only 14% of Virginians felt that the policies passed during the tumult of the 2020 special session of the General Assembly confronted the issue of systemic racism while 18% feel the session did not address the issue at all, according to a new statewide Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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More than 7 in 10 Virginians say they are likely to get a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a new statewide Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / January 14, 2021

A majority of Virginians now say they are very likely to receive the COVID-19 vaccine

More than 7 in 10 Virginians say they are likely to get a COVID-19 vaccine, according to a new statewide Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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The next Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place virtually on Thursday, February 4 and feature June Manning Thomas, Ph.D., Mary Frances Berry Distinguished University Professor Emerita of Urban Planning at University of Michigan.
News / January 15, 2021

Thomas headlines February doctoral lecture

The next Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place virtually on Thursday, February 4 and feature June Manning Thomas, Ph.D., Mary Frances Berry Distinguished University Professor Emerita of Urban Planning at University of Michigan.

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News / January 12, 2021

Large majority of Virginians lacked information about the state budget process

More than 8 in 10 Virginians (81%) said they did not have enough information to approve or disapprove of the state budget that was passed during the most recent General Assembly special session, according to the new statewide Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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66th Governor of Virginia L. Douglas Wilder is the nation's first African-American Governor.
Events / January 11, 2021

Ahead of His Class: Celebrating 90 Years of Pathbreaking Leadership in Education

The L. Douglas Wilder School will commemorate the 90th birthday of Governor L. Douglas Wilder. We will recognize his extraordinary career and outstanding commitment to public service education with a virtual celebration on Friday, January 15.

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Events / January 11, 2021

‘Fulfilling the Promise, Virginia Commonwealth University and the City of Richmond, 1968–2009’

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and The Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on January 22 featuring VCU President Emeritus Eugene P. Trani, Ph.D., and John T. Kneebone, Ph.D., VCU associate professor emeritus of history.

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News / December 8, 2020

Election 2020 and Beyond

As a tumultuous 2020 Presidential election drew to a close, the Wilder School invited Dr. Bob Holsworth, a noted political analyst and founding director of both the Wilder School and the Center for Public Policy, to its Alumni Lunch and Learn on November 18.

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The university community congratulates Wilder School Dean and Professor Dr. Susan Gooden, the 2021 recipient of the Charles H. Levine Memorial Award for Excellence in Public Administration.
Wilder School Spotlight / December 7, 2020

Susan Gooden Publishes Clear-Eyed Book on “Global Equity in Administration”

New book edited by Susan T. Gooden, Global Equity in Public Administration: Nervous Areas of Governments, confronts discrimination and exclusion against public servants, governments and government actors.

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VCU faculty from the Wilder School and School of Social Work are studying way to better understand and prevent adverse childhood experiences and trauma through the health care, education and juvenile justice systems.
News / November 20, 2020

Research grants focus on preventing adverse childhood experiences, trauma

VCU faculty from the Wilder School and School of Social Work are studying way to better understand and prevent adverse childhood experiences and trauma through the health care, education and juvenile justice systems.

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Congratulations to our graduates!
Events / November 10, 2020

Wilder school to host virtual commencement

The Wilder School will celebrate its graduating class with a virtual send off at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 11.

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SAGE Publishing and International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology recently published an article by Wilder School faculty member Christina Mancini and the Center of Public Policy’s Robyn McDougle and Brittany Keegan.
News / November 10, 2020

A first step, a second chance: public support for restoring rights of individuals with prior convictions

SAGE Publishing and International Journal of Offender Therapy and Comparative Criminology recently published an article by Wilder School faculty member Christina Mancini and the Center of Public Policy’s Robyn McDougle and Brittany Keegan.

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While Democrat Joe Biden remains ahead by double digits in Virginia, his voters are more likely to see the choice as a vote against President Donald Trump than a vote for Biden, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / October 29, 2020

Biden voters more likely to be voting against Trump than for Biden

While Democrat Joe Biden remains ahead by double digits in Virginia, his voters are more likely to see the choice as a vote against President Donald Trump than a vote for Biden, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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To help us better understand and unpack the racial implications of the amendment, the Wilder School’s Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute  and the Minority Political Leadership Institute hosted a lively virtual discussion featuring state policymakers and thought leaders on the subject.
News / October 27, 2020

Unpacking the racial implications of Virginia's Amendment 1

To help us better understand and unpack the racial implications of Virginia's Amendment 1, the Wilder School’s Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute and the Minority Political Leadership Institute hosted a lively virtual discussion featuring state policymakers and thought leaders on the subject.

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News / October 27, 2020

Protecting the Integrity of the Vote

Our most recent Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy featured Christopher E. “Chris” Piper, commissioner of the Virginia Department of Elections on October 21. Piper addressed the ongoing and most recent concerns behind the security and protection of the election and voters, as well as the importance of know how and where you can vote especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Events / October 27, 2020

Holsworth to talk Election 2020 and Beyond: What Happened and What's Next

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring Bob Holsworth, Ph.D., a political scientist and founding director of the Center for Public Policy and the Wilder School on November 18.

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The university community congratulates Wilder School Dean and Professor Dr. Susan Gooden, the 2021 recipient of the Charles H. Levine Memorial Award for Excellence in Public Administration.
News / October 16, 2020

Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden elected vice president of global accreditation body

Congratulations to VCU L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs Dean, Susan Gooden, who was elected Vice President of the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) at its 2020 annual conference.

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Left to right (first row): Whitney Hubbard Brown, Rebekah Cazares, Sarah Delaney, Chelsey DeLeon (second row) Daniel Motta, Amelie Rives, Hillary Small, Alex Valorose, Matthew Whibley
News / October 13, 2020

Announcing the Class of 2020 Wilder Fellows

The Wilder School is pleased to announce the 2020 cohort of Wilder Graduate Scholars’ Fellowship Program which includes a talented and dynamic class of nine students from diverse backgrounds and programs.

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Please join the Crime & Justice Research Alliance (CJRA) and the Consortium of Social Science Associations (COSSA) for its fourth annual “Ask a Criminologist” congressional briefing hosted by the VCU Wilder School on  Wednesday, October 21.
News / October 13, 2020

Wilder School to host ACJS Congressional “Ask a Criminologist” briefing

Please join the Crime & Justice Research Alliance (CJRA) and the Consortium of Social Science Associations (COSSA) for its fourth annual “Ask a Criminologist” congressional briefing hosted by the VCU Wilder School on Wednesday, October 21.

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The October Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy featured Shaun L. Gabbidon, a Distinguished Professor of Criminal Justice at Penn State Harrisburg and examined the connection between racial perceptions, criminal justice policy and punishment.
News / October 13, 2020

The power and danger of public perception in matters of race and criminology

The Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy featuring Shaun L. Gabbidon, a Distinguished Professor of Criminal Justice at Penn State Harrisburg examined the connection between racial perceptions, criminal justice policy and punishment.

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Wilder School faculty will be at the forefront of the first-ever virtual Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) conference held October 14-16.
News / October 13, 2020

Wilder School Students & Alumni Honored at NASPAA 2020 Virtual Conference

Wilder School faculty will be at the forefront of the first-ever virtual Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA) conference held October 14-16.

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Zbell, Smith, and Garcia are all experienced members of the Wilder School’s Undergraduate Advising Office who were recently recognized by the university with distinctions for service.
Faculty News / October 13, 2020

Numerous awards received within the Undergraduate Advising Office

Nicolette Zbell, Matthew Smith, and Nick Garcia are all experienced members of the Wilder School’s Undergraduate Advising Office who were recently recognized by the university with distinctions for service.

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Wilder School professor Sarah Jane Brubaker and Kellie Carlyle, an associate professor at the VCU School of Medicine are co-PIs.
News / September 29, 2020

The Department of Justice awards $425,000 to School of Medicine and Wilder School researchers to reduce risk for girls in the Juvenile Justice system

iCubed core has been awarded a $425,000 award from the Department of Justice "Reducing Risk for Girls in the Juvenile Justice" grant for their project "Disrupting the Trauma-to-Prison Pipeline for Girls in Virginia: A Multilevel Intervention."

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Wilder School graduate Chris McIntosh (M.A.’14/GPA) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.
News / September 29, 2020

VCU honors Wilder School Graduate Christopher Mcintosh

Wilder School graduate Chris McIntosh ((M.A.’14/GPA) was selected as a 10 Under 10 honoree by the VCU Office of Alumni Relations.

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Two Wilder School alumnae, Suzette Denslow (Urban Studies '79, MA in Public Administration '80) and Myra Goodman Smith (Urban Studies '82, MPA '84) will be honored at this year's YWCA Richmond Outstanding Women Awards.
Events / September 29, 2020

YWCA to honor two Wilder School alumnae

Two Wilder School alumnae, Suzette Denslow (Urban Studies '79) and Myra Goodman Smith (Urban Studies '82, MPA '84) will be honored at this year's YWCA Richmond Outstanding Women Awards.

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The 2020-21 season of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy began on Thursday, September 10, with a talk by Samuel L. Myers, Jr., of the Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota.
News / September 29, 2020

Myers talks about race inequality

The 2020-21 season of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy began on Thursday, September 10, with a talk by Samuel L. Myers, Jr., of the Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota.

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The next Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place virtually on Thursday, October 8 and feature Shaun L. Gabbidon, Ph.D., a Distinguished Professor of Criminal Justice at Penn State Harrisburg.
Events / September 15, 2020

Gabbidon headlines October doctoral lecture

The next Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place virtually on Thursday, October 8 and feature Shaun L. Gabbidon, Ph.D., a Distinguished Professor of Criminal Justice at Penn State Harrisburg.

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Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring Chris Piper (B.A.’01/H&S), commissioner of the Virginia Department of Elections on October 21.
News / September 24, 2020

Piper to discuss Protecting the Integrity of the Vote

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring Chris Piper (B.A.’01/H&S), commissioner of the Virginia Department of Elections on October 21.

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Events / September 24, 2020

Graduate Information Session on October 23

Learn about the Wilder School’s graduate programs and how they can help advance your career at the "Why Wilder? Graduate Information Session" on Friday, October 23.

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January 13, 2020 marked the 30th Anniversary of the inauguration of L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
News / September 22, 2020

VCU, VUU celebrate 30th anniversary of L. Douglas Wilder’s inauguration as Virginia’s 66th governor

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University on Thursday marked the 30th anniversary of the inauguration of L. Douglas Wilder as the 66th governor of Virginia and the first elected African American governor in U.S. history.

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A new VCU poll finds a majority of Virginians are skeptical about the safety of reopening schools for in-person classes.
News / September 17, 2020

A majority of Virginians are skeptical about the safety of reopening schools for in-person classes, VCU poll finds

Fifty-five percent of Virginians think it is not too safe or not at all safe to send children in their community back to school for in-person classes, while 42% think it is very safe or somewhat safe, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Democrats Joe Biden and Mark Warner are ahead of their opponents by double-digit margins, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / September 15, 2020

Biden and Warner have double-digit leads in Virginia

Democrats Joe Biden and Mark Warner are ahead of their opponents by double-digit margins, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Hayley Cleary, an associate professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the Wilder School, has received a grant award from the National Science Foundation (NSF).
News / September 15, 2020

Cleary receives NSF grant

Hayley Cleary, an associate professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the Wilder School, has received a grant award from the National Science Foundation (NSF).

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Wilder School Professor Emeritus Blue E. Wooldridge has been selected as the 2020 co-recipient of the Donald Stone Award for Outstanding Contribution and Well-being of the International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration (IASIA).
News / September 15, 2020

Wooldridge receives IASIA award

Wilder School Professor Emeritus Blue E. Wooldridge has been selected as the 2020 co-recipient of the Donald Stone Award for Outstanding Contribution and Well-being of the International Association of Schools and Institutes of Administration (IASIA).

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Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring Stephen Moret, Ed.D., president and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on September 16.
Events / September 8, 2020

Moret to discuss Virginia's Economy: Where to from here?

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation featuring Stephen Moret, Ed.D., president and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on September 16.

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The Wilder School is hosting special information sessions for state and local government employees interested in graduate school. Learn more about our degree and certificate programs and our current enrollment on September 2.
Events / August 28, 2020

Public Service, the Wilder School & YOU virtual session on Sept. 2

The Wilder School is hosting special information sessions for state and local government employees interested in graduate school. Learn more about our degree and certificate programs and our current enrollment on September 2.

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The VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll has been selected as a featured 2020 Presidential Election Poll by CNN.
News / August 26, 2020

Commonwealth Poll selected CNN 2020 Presidential Election Poll

The VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll has been selected as a featured 2020 Presidential Election Poll by CNN.

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As Virginia’s K-12 school divisions work to determine their reopening plans and what’s best for their communities amid the ongoing pandemic, VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs joined forces with the School of Education to offer some helpful guidance. (Shutterstock Images)
News / August 25, 2020

Virginia schools use guidance from VDOE and face challenging decisions when reopening

As Virginia’s K-12 school divisions work to determine their reopening plans and what’s best for their communities amid the ongoing pandemic, VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs joined forces with the School of Education to offer some helpful guidance in the Alumni Lunch and Learn Series on August 19.

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January 13, 2020 marked the 30th Anniversary of the inauguration of L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
News / August 24, 2020

Virtual symposium to commemorate 30th anniversary of Gov. L. Douglas Wilder’s inauguration

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, in partnership with Virginia Union University, will host a daylong virtual leadership symposium on Sept. 17 honoring the legacy of L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th governor of Virginia and the country’s first elected African American governor. This year marks the 30th anniversary of Wilder’s inauguration.

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The 2020-21 season of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will kick-off on Thursday, September 10, with a talk by Samuel L. Myers, Jr., of University of Minnesota.
Events / August 18, 2020

2020-21 Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series to kick-off Sept.10

The 2020-21 season of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will kick-off on Thursday, September 10, with a talk by Samuel L. Myers, Jr., of Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota.

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The dual pandemics of COVID-19 and Racism will be discussed by a panel of four faculty, including Professor Emeritus Blue Wooldridge, and moderated by Dean Susan Gooden on Wednesday, August 12 from 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Events / August 10, 2020

Dean Gooden Moderating ASPA Panel on Dual Pandemics

The dual pandemics of COVID-19 and Racism will be discussed by a panel of four faculty, including Professor Emeritus Blue Wooldridge, and moderated by Dean Susan Gooden on Wednesday, August 12 from 1:00-2:30 p.m.

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Faculty News / August 4, 2020

Harper-Anderson cited in NBC news article on the impact of COVID-19 on small business and gaps in recovery funding

Wilder School Professor Elsie Harper-Anderson was referenced in the article “For richer and poorer, Uncle Sam's coronavirus response widened the gulf” written by NBC News reporter Jonathan Allen.

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President Donald Trump and Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam saw approval ratings for their handling of the COVID-19 crisis drop since April, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / July 30, 2020

Approval of Trump's and Northam's handling of COVID-19 has fallen since April

President Donald Trump and Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam saw approval ratings for their handling of the COVID-19 crisis drop since April, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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James Lane, Ed.D. (left), Virginia Department of Education superintendent of public instruction, Maria Pitre-Martin, Ph.D. (middle), superintendent of Petersburg City Public Schools and VCU School of Education Dean Andrew Daire, Ph.D. (right).
Events / July 28, 2020

Alumni Lunch and Learn on K-12 Return to School

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on Wednesday, August 19 featuring James Lane, Ed.D., Virginia Department of Education superintendent of public instruction, Maria Pitre-Martin, Ph.D., superintendent of Petersburg City Public Schools and VCU School of Education Dean Andrew Daire, Ph.D.

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The Wilder School continued its Alumni Lunch and Learn Series with a powerful presentation and discussion with Michael Paul Williams, columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch on July 22.
News / July 23, 2020

Williams Reflects on Richmond's History & Today

The Wilder School continued its Alumni Lunch and Learn Series with a powerful presentation and discussion with Michael Paul Williams, columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch on July 22.

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News / July 22, 2020

Wilder Faculty Newly Appointed Positions

Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden and professor Will Pelfrey were both recently appointed to community positions.

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Wilder faculty member Brie Haupt has co-edited “Cultural Competency for Emergency and Crisis Management, Concepts, Theories and Case Studies,” recently published by Routledge.
News / July 22, 2020

Haupt Co-edits New Book on Cultural Competence in Emergency Management

Wilder faculty member Brie Haupt has co-edited “Cultural Competency for Emergency and Crisis Management, Concepts, Theories and Case Studies,” recently published by Routledge.

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Kate Howell and Ben Teresa, co-founders of the RVA Eviction Lab and core members of our Wilder School graduate faculty talk about expanding to Hopewell, Petersburg and Hampton Roads as eviction moratoriums are being lifted.
News / July 20, 2020

Howell & Teresa Expand RVA Eviction Lab

Kate Howell and Ben Teresa, co-founders of the RVA Eviction Lab and core members of our Wilder School graduate faculty talk about expanding to Hopewell, Petersburg and Hampton Roads as eviction moratoriums are being lifted.

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A new VCU study analyzes the federal response to the current economic crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically its impact on Black workers and businesses in Virginia.
News / July 13, 2020

Harper-Anderson Explores Economic Impact of COVID-19, CARES Act on Black Workers and Businesses in Virginia

Wilder School associate professor of urban and regional planning Elsie Harper-Anderson, Ph.D.'s latest study explores economic impact of COVID-19 and the CARES Act on Black workers and businesses in Virginia.

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The Kerner Commission was formed amid riots in Detroit in 1967. Photograph: American Stock/Getty Images
News / July 13, 2020

Dean Gooden Guest Appears on NPR's Throughline Podcast

Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden participates as one of the guest experts on NPR's Throughline podcast discussing 1967's Kerner Commission.

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VCU and the Wilder School strongly support our international students and our commitment to global education.
News / July 13, 2020

Wilder School Supports our International Students

Message from the Dean on how VCU and the Wilder School strongly support our international students and our commitment to global education.

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Alumni Lunch and Learn to feature noted columnist, Michael Paul Williams on July 22
Events / July 8, 2020

Alumni Lunch and Learn to feature noted columnist, Michael Paul Williams on July 22

Join the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs for a Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on Wednesday, July 22 featuring Michael Paul Williams, columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

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The Wilder School kicked-off the first of its Alumni Lunch and Learn Series featuring Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran on June 24.
News / June 29, 2020

Moran Reviews Virginia’s Response to COVID-19

The Wilder School kicked-off the first of its Alumni Lunch and Learn Series featuring Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran on June 24.

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Join the Wilder School for its inaugural Alumni Lunch and Learn Series with a virtual Zoom presentation featuring the Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran on Wednesday, June 24.
Events / June 11, 2020

Wilder School to Hold Inaugural Alumni Lunch and Learn on June 24

Join the Wilder School for its inaugural Alumni Lunch and Learn Series with a virtual Zoom presentation featuring the Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran on Wednesday, June 24.

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Gov. Ralph Northam has appointed Curtis Brown, a two-time alumnus of the VCU Wilder School, to lead the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.
News / June 10, 2020

Two-time Wilder School Alumnus Appointed to Head VDEM

Gov. Ralph Northam has appointed Curtis Brown, a two-time alumnus of the VCU Wilder School, to lead the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.

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More than 50 faculty, staff, and alumni joined Dean Susan Gooden in a Wilder School Town Hall Friday, June 5 to discuss how we can actively contribute to achieving a healthy society.
News / June 9, 2020

Wilder School Town Hall, “Let’s Be Part of the Solution”

More than 50 faculty, staff, and alumni joined Dean Susan Gooden in a Wilder School Town Hall Friday, June 5 to discuss how we can actively contribute to achieving a healthy society.

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VCU Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D.'s published book, Race and Social Equity: A Nervous Area of Government, receives the Herbert Simon Best Book Award from the Public Administration section of APSA.
News / June 9, 2020

Gooden’s Book Selected as Winner of the Herbert Simon Award

VCU Wilder School Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D.'s published book, Race and Social Equity: A Nervous Area of Government, receives the Herbert Simon Best Book Award from the Public Administration section of the American Political Science Association.

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Jessica Smith, a doctoral candidate in public policy and administration at the VCU Wilder School, has been awarded a grant from the Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy to support her dissertation project,
News / June 9, 2020

Smith Receives Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy Award

Jessica Smith, a doctoral candidate in public policy and administration at the VCU Wilder School, has been awarded a grant from the Horowitz Foundation for Social Policy to support her dissertation project, "Assessing School Safety in the Age of Threat Assessment: A Policy Study."

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News / June 1, 2020

A Message from Wilder School Dean Susan T. Gooden

Wilder School Dean, Susan T. Gooden addresses racism and COVID-19 and how we can be a part of the solution.

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Events / May 28, 2020

Now What? The Ethical and Sociological Impact of Covid-19

Join a Q&A led by faculty members from VCU's Honors College, L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs and College of Humanities and Sciences, who will explore the lasting ethical and sociological impacts of COVID-19.

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L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th Governor of Virginia and a distinguished member of the Wilder School faculty
News / May 28, 2020

In His Own Words: Governor Wilder on the Creation of Virginia’s Rainy Day Fund

The American Society for Public Administration recently published an op-ed in which L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th Governor of Virginia and a distinguished member of our faculty, recounted in great detail the creation of the Rainy Day Fund, a reserve which will almost assuredly be used to address the pandemic.

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Virtual Lunch-and-Learn: Wilder School Graduate Programs for VCU Employees will take place on Friday, June 5 at 12 p.m.
Events / May 26, 2020

Virtual Lunch-and-Learn: Wilder School Graduate Programs for VCU Employees

The Wilder School will host a virtual information session for VCU employees who want to know more about the School’s flexible and affordable graduate and certificate programs on June 5. Learn more about our current enrollment incentives—including a waiver of GRE and other testing requirements and our extended July 1 application deadlines.

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Wilder School Teach-In: RVA Eviction Lab Featuring Kate Howell and Ben Teresa
Events / May 26, 2020

Wilder School Teach-In: RVA Eviction Lab

Please join Dr. Kathryn Howell and Dr. Ben Teresa, co-directors of the RVA Eviction Lab and instructors in the Wilder School's Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program, for an overview and discussion of the RVA Eviction Lab's important work and relationship to the Wilder School.

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The Wilder School will host a special informational session for governmental employees on May 21 and May 27.
News / May 18, 2020

Public Service, the Wilder School & YOU

The Wilder School is hosting special information sessions for state and local government employees interested in graduate school. Learn more about our degree and certificate programs and our current enrollment incentives available for a limited-time only.

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VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs’ virtual graduation celebration took place on Friday, May 8 at 10 a.m. The school congratulated the recipients of nearly 300 professional, graduate and undergraduate degrees and certificates.
News / May 12, 2020

Celebrating Our Class of 2020 Graduates

VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs’ virtual graduation celebration took place on Friday, May 8 at 10 a.m. The school congratulated the recipients of nearly 300 professional, graduate and undergraduate degrees and certificates. Learn more and visit our Wilder School virtual graduation celebration site.

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Wilder School associate professor, Saltanat (Salta) Liebert, Ph.D., was elected as Chair-Elect for ASPA's Section on Personal Administration and Labor Relations.
News / May 5, 2020

Liebert Elected as Chair-Elect of ASPA’s Section on Personnel Administration and Labor Relations (SPALR)

Wilder School associate professor, Saltanat (Salta) Liebert, Ph.D., was elected as Chair-Elect for ASPA's Section on Personal Administration and Labor Relations.

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Congratulations to our 2019-2020 Faculty & Staff Awardees!
News / May 5, 2020

Wilder School Faculty & Staff Awards

This year, the Wilder School recognizes and celebrates faculty and staff members who have triumphed through unprecedented times to deliver our students the highest-quality teaching, scholarship and support services as well as displayed commitment to academic excellence and phenomenal work within our community and beyond.

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Congratulations to Wilder School faculty members and RVA Eviction Lab co-directors, Kathryn Howell, Ph.D. and Ben Teresa, Ph.D. as well as Elsie Harper-Anderson, Ph.D., director of the Wilder School’s Ph.D. program in public policy and administration, for being selected as initial recipients to receive funding under the a VCU COVID-19 Rapid Research Funding Opportunity.
News / May 5, 2020

Wilder School Recipients of VCU COVID-19 Rapid Research Funding Opportunity

Wilder School faculty members and RVA Eviction Lab co-directors, Kathryn Howell, Ph.D. and Ben Teresa, Ph.D. as well as Elsie Harper-Anderson, Ph.D., director of the Wilder School’s Ph.D. program in public policy and administration are among those selected as initial recipients to receive funding under the a VCU COVID-19 Rapid Research Funding Opportunity with support from the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation and the Wright Center for Clinical and Translational Research.

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WilderLIVE! Summer Isn't Cancelled panel discussion will take place on Tuesday, May 19th, 2020 from 1 PM -2 PM.
Events / May 14, 2020

WilderLive! Panel Discussion for Students

Join us for WilderLIVE! Summer Isn’t Cancelled! on Tuesday, May 19 from 1 p.m - 2 p.m. for a panel discussion on what students can do to stay on track during COVID. Representatives from Academic Advising, Office of Student Success, Career Services, & Summer Studies will be answering students questions.

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Acceptable Losses?  COVID-19—Social Equity and the African-American Community webinar to take place on April 16 at  4 p.m. ET
Events / May 5, 2020

ASPA and the Wilder School Host Final Webinar of Series

The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and the Wilder School are partnering to host the final webinar in a four-part series looking at effective leadership in a time of crisis.

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Wilder School Professor Sarah Jane Brubaker's virtual discussion,
News / April 28, 2020

Understanding the Impact of COVID-19 on Gender Violence

Wilder School professor, Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., held a virtual discussion on the "Impacts of COVID-19 on Intimate Partner Violence and Victimization" co-hosted by the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute and Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) at the Center for Public Policy on April 24

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Acceptable Losses?  COVID-19—Social Equity and the African-American Community webinar to take place on April 16 at  4 p.m. ET
Events / April 27, 2020

ASPA and the Wilder School Host Part 3 of Webinar Series

The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and the Wilder School are partnering to host the third in a four-part webinar series looking at effective leadership in a time of crisis.

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Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., an associate professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the Wilder School's bill, HB1023, passed the House and on April 11, Governor Northam signed it into law.
News / April 27, 2020

Cleary’s interrogation bill signed by Governor Northam

For the past year and a half, Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., an associate professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the Wilder School, has worked with Senator Jennifer McClellan to gain support for a bill that would mandate all Virginia state law enforcement agencies to electronically record custodial interrogations conducted in a place of detention. Cleary's bill, HB1023, passed the House and on April 11, Governor Northam signed it into law.

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News / March 23, 2020

PMG presents a participant forum

The Performance Management Group (PMG) at Virginia Commonwealth University is presenting a Participant Forum on March 26 and invites individuals to be part of building a community of managers and supervisors who share their ideas and experiences in navigating change and leading teams through these extraordinary times.

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More than 6-in-10 Virginians approve of various gun control, minimum wage and redistricting policies passed by the General Assembly, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / April 21, 2020

Large majorities of Virginians support policies passed during General Assembly session

More than 6-in-10 Virginians approve of various gun control, minimum wage and redistricting policies passed by the General Assembly, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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David Cattell-Gordon, director of Telehealth Operations at UVA Health, conducted a simulated test in July 2019. While telehealth services are expanding during the coronavirus pandemic, reliable internet access is necessary to receive care in remote settings.  THE DAILY PROGRESS
News / April 21, 2020

Raskin and Smith Pen Op-ed Calling for Increased Internet Access as a Necessity for Better Health

In today’s edition of the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the Wilder School’s own Sarah Raskin and Shelly Smith, call for legislative action on the expansion of broadband infrastructure, leveraging data collected from the Commonwealth Connect Coalition and the 2019 County Health Rankings.

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African Americans and people in lower socioeconomic groups are being disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, according to speakers on a coronavirus webinar hosted by Virginia Commonwealth University and the American Society for Public Administration.
News / April 21, 2020

Webinar Identifies COVID-19’s Equity Problem

Higher rates of infection and death among African Americans demonstrate the racial character of inequality in America, according to a panel hosted by the VCU Wilder School and the American Society for Public Administration on April 16.

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News / April 21, 2020

Assessing the Benefits of Distributed Solar in Virginia

Fabrizio Fasulo, Ph.D., Director of the Wilder School’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA) and Damian Pitt, Ph.D., associate professor and program chair of Urban and Regional Studies and Planning, have released a new study evaluating the impacts of the potential purchase, installation and maintenance of 2,500 MW of new distributed solar photovoltaic (PV) generation capacity in Virginia.

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Acceptable Losses?  COVID-19—Social Equity and the African-American Community webinar to take place on April 16 at  4 p.m. ET
Events / April 20, 2020

ASPA and the Wilder School Host Part 2 of Webinar Series

The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and the Wilder School are partnering to host the second in a four-part webinar series looking at effective leadership in a time of crisis.

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News / April 15, 2020

Gooden Named Dean of Wilder School

Susan Gooden, Ph.D., who has served as interim dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University since May 2018, has been named dean, effective April 16. She will oversee a professional school which ranks among the top 20 percent of schools of its kind in the nation, includes more than 1,200 students, nine undergraduate and graduate programs and a comprehensive Center for Public Policy.

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Congratulations to our graduates!
News / April 14, 2020

Wilder School to Host Virtual Graduation

Although we will not be able to honor all of our graduates at an in-person commencement next month, the Wilder School is planning a virtual commencement celebration and invite students to participate.

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More than three-quarters of Virginians (76%) approve of the way Gov. Ralph Northam is handling the coronavirus crisis, with 40% strongly approving, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / April 14, 2020

Large majority of Virginians approve of how Northam is handling the COVID-19 crisis

More than three-quarters of Virginians (76%) approve of the way Gov. Ralph Northam is handling the coronavirus crisis, with 40% strongly approving, according to a new statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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To express our gratitude and appreciation for our VCU Health System colleagues, the Wilder School is inviting faculty, staff and students and their families to participate in a voluntary Virtual Thank-You Campaign, this Friday, April 17.
Events / April 14, 2020

School to Host Virtual Day of Thanks

To express our gratitude and appreciation for our VCU Health System colleagues, the Wilder School is inviting faculty, staff and students and their families to participate in a voluntary Virtual Thank-You Campaign, this Friday, April 17.

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Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., professor in the Wilder School’s criminal justice and public policy and administration programs, was recently elected as the Vice President of the Society of the Study for Social Problems (SSSP).
News / April 7, 2020

Brubaker elected as Vice President of the Society of the Study of Social Problems

Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., professor in the Wilder School’s criminal justice and public policy and administration programs, was recently elected as the Vice President of the Society of the Study for Social Problems (SSSP).

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Acceptable Losses?  COVID-19—Social Equity and the African-American Community webinar to take place on April 16 at  4 p.m. ET
Events / April 10, 2020

ASPA and the Wilder School Partner to Host Special Coronavirus Webinar

The American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) and the Wilder School are partnering to host a free webinar looking at the social equity disparities related to the coronavirus's effects on African Americans.

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News / April 7, 2020

Supporting Students in Extraordinary Times

In an effort to help support students through these extraordinary times, the Wilder School is working to connect students with a range of resources designed to support the many dimensions of their lives, including academic financial, counseling referral and advising services.

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Events / April 6, 2020

Raskin and Howell to Headline Alumni Health Care Policy Forum

Join VCU Alumni's Facebook Live discussion with Wilder School faculty members, Sarah Raskin, Ph.D. and Kathryn Howell, Ph.D. on Monday, April 20 at 12 p.m.

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The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs of Virginia Commonwealth University was ranked “Best in the Southeast” among Intelligent.com’s Top 52 Homeland Security Degrees.
News / March 24, 2020

VCU Ranks Among Top Homeland Security Degree Programs for 2020

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs of Virginia Commonwealth University was ranked “Best in the Southeast” among Intelligent.com’s Top 52 Homeland Security Degrees.

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The 2020 U.S. News & World Report rankings confirm the Wilder School among the nation’s top 20% of graduate schools of public affairs at No. 45. The school also ranks No. 39 in Public Management & Leadership.
News / March 23, 2020

Wilder School Ranks #45 in Latest U.S. News & World Report

The 2020 U.S. News & World Report rankings confirm the Wilder School among the nation’s top 20% of graduate schools of public affairs at No. 45. The school also ranks No. 39 in Public Management & Leadership, marking the first time the Wilder School has ranked in one of the specialty areas. Also ranks #39 in Public Management and Leadership.

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Susan ‘Su’ Williams, the Wilder School’s Senior Finance Manager, is set to retire at the end of March 2020.
News / March 16, 2020

Williams to retire after 43 years with VCU

Susan ‘Su’ Williams, the Wilder School’s Senior Finance Manager, is set to retire at the end of March 2020. Williams has worked for Virginia Commonwealth University for an amazing 43 years in various roles and departments. She has spent the last twelve of those years with the Wilder School reaching outstanding goals and accomplishing tremendous work.

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Saltanat (Salta) Liebert, Associate Professor, Sombo Chunda, Doctoral Candidate, Megan Rollins,  2019 MPA Graduate, Yolanda Crewe, Doctoral Candidate.
News / March 16, 2020

Faculty and Students Awarded Top Honors by ASPA

Although the American Society for Public Administration 2020 Annual Meeting in Anaheim, CA scheduled for April 3-7, 2020 has been cancelled, we would still like to salute the Wilder School faculty and students who were selected to be recognized at this year’s conference for their outstanding scholarly and professional contributions.

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Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., an associate professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the Wilder School.
News / March 16, 2020

Cleary works to craft criminal justice policy in Virginia

Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., an associate professor of Criminal Justice and Public Policy at the Wilder School, has spent her academic career studying the intersection of social science, law, and policy as she examines the experiences of youth in the criminal justice system. Today, she’s working to turn this research into public policy in Virginia.

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Speciose Nyamatereko, Ashley Coles, Taylor Jenkins and Lark Washington were each selected to receive this year’s Black History in the Making honor.
News / March 3, 2020

Wilder School students among Black History in the Making recipients

Four Wilder School students were among the recipients of the 2020 Black History in the Making Awards by VCU’s College of Humanities & Science’s department of African American Studies. Speciose Nyamatereko, Ashley Coles, Taylor Jenkins and Lark Washington were each selected to receive this year’s honor.

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Denia A. Lee-Hing, Ed.D., director of graduate studies at the Wilder School, will be participating as a panel member in an upcoming VCU Globe event partnered with the Peace Corps on March 19.
News / March 3, 2020

Lee-Hing to participate in VCU Globe’s Peace Corps panel

Denia A. Lee-Hing, Ed.D., director of graduate studies at the Wilder School, will be participating as a panel member in an upcoming VCU Globe event partnered with the Peace Corps. The special event will showcase gender equality initiatives, women's health projects, and female empowerment camps from a panel of female Returned Peace Corps Volunteers in celebration of Women's History month.

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The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University will honor individuals and organizations who have made noteworthy contributions to the practice of government and the betterment of the state on Wednesday, April 15, 2020. Dominion Energy is the event’s 2020 Title Sponsor.
News / January 29, 2020

Wilder School Announces 2020 EVGA Honorees

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University will honor individuals and organizations who have made noteworthy contributions to the practice of government and the betterment of the state on Wednesday, April 15, 2020.

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The final lecture in this academic year’s Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will feature Ann-Margaret Esnard, associate dean for research in the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, and a distinguished university professor in the Department of Public Management and Policy at Georgia State University.
News / February 25, 2020

Finale doctoral lecture series talk to feature noted researcher and author, Ann-Margaret Esnard

The final lecture in this academic year’s Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will feature Ann-Margaret Esnard, associate dean for research in the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, and a distinguished university professor in the Department of Public Management and Policy at Georgia State University.

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January 13, 2020 marks the 30th Anniversary of the inauguration of The Honorable L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
News / February 24, 2020

Honoring L. Douglas Wilder: Continuing 30 Years of History, Then & Now Day-long leadership symposium

POSTPONED: Virginia Union University (VUU) will host a day-long leadership symposium honoring the legacy of L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Governor Wilder’s inauguration.

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Gilbert Michaud, Ph.D., an alum of the Wilder School’s doctoral program is a newly appointed research scholar and faculty affiliate at the Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan through their Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy (CLOSUP) program.
News / February 18, 2020

Wilder School doctoral alum joins UMich

Gilbert Michaud, Ph.D., an alum of the Wilder School’s doctoral program is a newly appointed research scholar and faculty affiliate at the Ford School of Public Policy at the University of Michigan through their Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy (CLOSUP) program.

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News / February 11, 2020

Graduate Information Session on February 21

Learn about the Wilder School’s graduate programs and how they can help advance your career at the "Why Wilder? Graduate Information Session" on Friday, February 21.

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The Kyrgyz delegation with Jordan Stewart (Wilder School Center for Public Policy Legislative Liaison) and Ludmila, their translator. Photo courtesy of Jordan Stewart.
News / February 11, 2020

VCU Hosts Kazakh Delegation through Open World Program

The VCU L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, the VCU Global Education Office, and the VCU Robertson School of Media and Culture recently hosted a delegation of officials from Kazakhstan from January 24 – February 9. The visit was administered through the Open World Program.

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Xavier Guadalupe-Diaz, Ph.D., one of the first graduates of the Wilder School’s Certificate in Gender Violence Intervention program, will return to talk about his new book Transgressed: Intimate Partner Violence in Transgender Lives with New York University Press.
News / January 28, 2020

Wilder School graduate returns for book talk

Xavier Guadalupe-Diaz, Ph.D., one of the first graduates of the Wilder School’s Certificate in Gender Violence Intervention program, will return to talk about his new book Transgressed: Intimate Partner Violence in Transgender Lives with New York University Press on February 26.

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The next installment of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place on Monday, February 10. The event will feature Lance Freeman, Ph.D., a professor in the Urban Planning Program and the Director of the doctoral program in Urban Planning at Columbia University in New York City.
News / January 21, 2020

February doctoral lecture series talk to feature noted author, Lance Freeman

The next installment of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place on Monday, February 10. The event will feature Lance Freeman, Ph.D., a professor in the Urban Planning Program and the Director of the doctoral program in Urban Planning at Columbia University in New York City.

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January 13, 2020 marks the 30th Anniversary of the inauguration of The Honorable L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
News / January 13, 2020

Continuing 30 Years of History

January 13, 2020 marks the 30th Anniversary of the inauguration of The Honorable L. Douglas Wilder, 66th Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia. As we remember this historic day, we also look forward to celebrating Governor Wilder's continuing legacy with a day-long leadership symposium.

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Ahead of the General Assembly session, a majority of Virginians favor stricter gun laws and believe public schools are underfunded and a majority of Virginians would be willing to pay more, according to statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / January 7, 2020

Virginians’ favor stricter gun laws, willing to pay more for education

Ahead of the General Assembly session, a majority of Virginians favor stricter gun laws and believe public schools are underfunded and a majority of Virginians would be willing to pay more, according to statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Against the backdrop of last month’s election that gave Democrats control of Virginia’s General Assembly and amid the ongoing process of impeaching President Donald Trump, Virginians are increasingly motivated to vote, according to statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.
News / December 20, 2019

Virginians' motivation to vote grows

Against the backdrop of last month’s election that gave Democrats control of Virginia’s General Assembly and amid the ongoing process of impeaching President Donald Trump, Virginians are increasingly motivated to vote, according to statewide poll conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Laura Foy receives the Demonstrating Tenacity award.
News / December 17, 2019

Foy recognized for tenacity by DAR

Wilder School staff member, Laura Foy, received the Demonstrating Tenacity award from the VCU Office of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR).

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Brittany Keegan, Ph.D.,Ashlee Barnes, Ph.D., Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., and Danielle Apugo, Ph.D.
News / December 10, 2019

Panel explores criminalization of trauma in schools

Faculty members from the Wilder School, the Center for Public Policy (CPP) of the Wilder School and the VCU School of Education participated in a panel discussion on the “Disrupting Criminalization in Education” iCubed project and insights from the Wilder School Commonwealth Poll.

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News / December 3, 2019

Branch competes in VCU Venture’s Next Big Idea Challenge

Wilder School staff member Gwyneth Branch is competing in the 2019 Next Big Idea Challenge by VCU Ventures and Activation Capital. The Next Big Idea Challenge is an online competition for VCU staff to submit ideas for a new company, product, or service and the chance to win up to $1,400 in cash, just in time for the holidays.

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News / December 3, 2019

Albanese participates in U.N. Anti-Corruption Symposium

Wilder School professor Jay Albanese, PhD., recently participated in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) "Anti-Corruption Academic Symposium," organized by UNODC in cooperation with the Moscow State Institute of International Relations (MGIMO).

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With the scheduled release today, 11/25/19, of the JLARC study on gambling in Virginia, the results of a statewide poll released in late October by the VCU Wilder School offers additional perspective on how Virginians feel about gambling.
News / November 25, 2019

Majority of Virginians favor legalized gambling

With the scheduled release of a JLARC study on gambling in Virginia later today, the results of a statewide poll released in late October by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University offers perspective on how Virginians feel about gambling.

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Wilder School Professor Emeritus Blue Wooldridge awarded the 2019 George Graham Award
News / November 19, 2019

Wilder School professor emeritus awarded NAPA’s George Graham Award for service

Wilder School Professor Emeritus Blue Wooldridge has been awarded the 2019 George Graham Award for Exceptional Service from the National Academy of Public Administration.

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Wilder School faculty members Elsie Harper-Anderson and Brittany Keegan staff the table at the APPAM Doctoral Student Fair on November 9, 2019.
News / November 19, 2019

Wilder School faculty shine at 2019 APPAM Fall Conference

Last week, five faculty members from the Wilder School’s academic programs and Centers for Public Policy (CPP) traveled to the annual 2019 Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management Fall Research Conference in Denver, Co. Each participated in the event as panelists, discussants, presenters, exhibitors and hosts of featured events.

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The Honorable Senator Rosalyn R. Dances receives the Wilder School Alumni Star award.
News / November 12, 2019

VCU Alumni honors Wilder School graduate Rosalyn R. Dance

The Honorable Senator Rosalyn R. Dance, a Wilder School graduate with a master’s in public administration, was recognized by VCU Alumni Relations as the Wilder School Alumni Star.

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News / November 12, 2019

Student Scholarship Deadline is Feb. 1

Applications for Wilder School undergraduate and graduate scholarships for the 2020-2021 academic year are due Saturday, February 1.

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Sombo Chunda participates in 2019 VCU Qatar Leadership Exchange
News / November 5, 2019

Chunda participates in 2019 VCU Qatar Leadership Exchange

Sombo Chunda, a third-year doctoral candidate in public policy and administration at the VCU Wilder School, was recently selected to participate in the 2019 VCU Qatar Leadership Exchange. The Qatar Leadership Exchange is the premier cross-cultural leadership development program offered by the Division of Student Affairs at the university. Its purpose is to increase appreciation, awareness, and collaboration between VCU's Richmond and VCUarts Qatar campuses.

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10 Under 10 award recipient Joshua Son
News / November 5, 2019

VCU honors Wilder School Graduate Joshua Son

Joshua Son, a Wilder School graduate with a master’s in urban and regional planning, was named by Virginia Commonwealth University as one of the university’s top 10 graduates of the previous decade.

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Former Va. Gov. Gerald Baliles who served at the top of the ticket during a historic run for statewide office in 1985 has died.
News / October 29, 2019

Former Va. Gov. Gerald Baliles, who served at the top of the ticket during a historic run for statewide office in 1985, dies at 79

Former Va. Gov. Gerald Baliles who served at the top of the ticket during a historic run for statewide office in 1985 has died at age 79. Interim Dean Susan Gooden and longtime colleague and distinguished faculty member, L. Douglas Wilder, issued a statement.

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Wilder School doctoral candidate Layla Alanazi has been awarded the 2019 NECoPA Best Student Paper Award.
News / October 22, 2019

Alanazi to receive 2019 NECoPA Best Student Paper Award

Wilder School doctoral candidate Layla Alanazi has been awarded NecOPA's Best Student Paper Award for her study entitled “Does Gender Really Matter? Testing the Mediating Role of Public Service Motivation Between Gender and Organizational Citizenship Behavior in Federal Agencies.”

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Noted author and criminologist, Callie Rennison, Ph.D., shared twelve personal insights on life in academia with students, faculty and alumni during the Wilder School’s Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy on October 28..
News / October 29, 2019

Criminologist, Callie Rennison gets personal with insights on life in academia

Author and criminologist, Callie Rennison, Ph.D., shared twelve personal insights on life in academia with students, faculty and alumni during the Wilder School’s Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy on October 28. Her talk “From Here to There, to Where? The Life Course of One Academic,” highlighted her journey from indecisive undergraduate to noted academician.

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News / October 16, 2019

Graduate Information Session on November 1

Learn about the Wilder School’s graduate programs and how they can help advance your career at the "Why Wilder? Graduate Information Session" on Friday, November 1.

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Putting Policy in Action on November 7
News / October 29, 2019

PASA panel to cover diverse public health issues

Join the Public Administration Student Association (PASA) on Thursday, November 7, "Putting Policy into Action," a thought-provoking panel discussion featuring a range of Virginia public health issues. Topics to be discussed include needle exchange programs, policies surrounding medical marijuana, and efforts to ban conversion therapy.

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News / October 22, 2019

Wilder School Faculty & Staff Service Recognition

Congratulations to our Wilder School colleagues for their many years of dedicated service to Virginia Commonwealth University!

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Source: Fall 2019 Wilder School Commonwealth Poll
News / October 14, 2019

Wilder School Poll Shows a Majority of Virginians Believe Congress Should Begin Impeachment Hearings or Continue Investigation for President Trump

According to a statewide poll conducted by the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy, a majority of Virginians believe that there is enough evidence to begin impeachment hearings or continue investigation into President Trump. The Commonwealth Poll 2019, sponsored by Virginia Commonwealth University, obtained telephone interviews with a representative sample of 800 adults, age 18 or older, living in Virginia from September 23 to October 4.

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Wilder School faculty, friends and alumni gather for an informal networking event held at the historic Millennium Biltmore hotel on October  17.
News / October 18, 2019

Wilder School faculty, students and alumni lead talks at NASPAA

Ten faculty, students and alumni from the VCU Wilder School led conversations on innovation in public affairs teaching and the challenges of training students to build more inclusive democracies at the 2019 Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) Annual Conference in Los Angeles last

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Left to Right: Lark Washington, Gabriella Pino-Moreno, Ashley Ferguson, Matthew Whibley, Rebekah Cazares, Shajuana Isom-Payne, Jake Kline, Eric Mai, Taylor Jenkins, Amelie Rives, Dan Motta, Woody Rogers. (Not photographed: Aleigh Faulk and Hillary Smalls)
News / October 14, 2019

Announcing the Class of 2019 Wilder Fellows!

Announcing the 2019 Class of Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows, the VCU Wilder School welcomes a talented and robust cohort of 13 fellows to the program. Learn about the fellowship's tremendous growth and how it continues to serve as a valuable connection between state agencies, nonprofit organizations and the school's exceptional master's students.

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If you've earned a degree from the VCU Wilder School, please join us for an alumni networking reception on October 30.
News / October 14, 2019

Wilder School Alumni Networking Reception: Professionals in Public Service

If you've earned a degree from the VCU Wilder School, please join us for an alumni networking reception later this month. Grab your business cards and join us at this event to expand your network and meet professionals in the area, share your pathway to success and learn from others and learn about what’s happening at the Wilder School.

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(From left to right) Makola Abdullah, Ph.D., Governor L. Douglas Wilder, Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Alvin Schexnider, Ph.D., Michael Rao, Ph.D., Paula Pando, Ed.D., Ronald Crutcher, D.M.A.
News / October 7, 2019

Symposium challenges Va. college presidents to reflect on race in academia

In a year marked by one of the most meaningful and sustained inquiries into the history of African peoples in America in recent cultural history, the 2019 Wilder Symposium provided a personal and unflinching look at race and inclusion in higher education as told from the perspective of four Virginia college presidents.

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The next installment of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place on Monday, October 28. The event will feature Callie Rennison, Ph.D., a noted professor and criminologist at the University of Colorado Denver.
News / October 7, 2019

October doctoral lecture series talk to feature noted criminologist, Callie Rennison

The next installment of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will take place on Monday, October 29. The event will feature Callie Rennison, Ph.D., a noted professor and criminologist at the University of Colorado Denver’s School of Public Affairs.

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Panelists Virginia State Senator Jennifer McClellan and Jackie Storey, director of Six Points Innovation Center, discuss the role of law and policy in preventing evictions within the region on September 26.
News / October 7, 2019

Community panel explores impact of eviction

What’s the community impact of Richmond’s staggering eviction rates? The Wilder School recently convened a thoughtful panel of scholars, lawyers, youth and community activists to find out.The panel, “Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City,” was held in conjunction with the 2019 VCU Common Book, “Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City” at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts on September 26.

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Nominations for the 2020 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards are open now through November 15, 2019.
News / October 7, 2019

2020 EVGA nominations now open

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is pleased to announce that nominations for the 2020 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards are open now through November 15, 2019.

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The Summer 2019 Supervisors and Managers Bootcamp graduates at Maymont in Richmond, Virginia
News / September 19, 2019

The First Supervisors and Managers Bootcamp Created a Safe and Interactive Learning Experience

Being a supervisor can be challenging, rewarding, frustrating, and amazing all in one day. Supervision of others requires constant hat-switching from coach to manager to cheerleader and more. The Performance Management Group (PMG) within the Center for Public Policy at VCU’s Wilder School created the Supervisors and Managers Bootcamp (SMB) to help supervisors, managers, and project managers tackle their days armed with relevant knowledge and practical ideas.

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The Wilder School is hiring four faculty who will contribute to its scholarly and pedagogical focus in a variety of areas.
News / October 8, 2019

Four faculty openings!

The Wilder School is hiring four faculty who will contribute to its scholarly and pedagogical focus in a variety of areas. Priority review will begin on October 15, 2019 and continue until each position is filled.

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Students reading in VCU's Park Plaza.
News / August 25, 2019

SERL to study post-college outcomes for SCHEV

The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) has awarded $750,000 to the Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory (SERL) for a one-year research study. The study will describe post-college outcomes for recent baccalaureate and associate degree earners at state-supported institutions of higher education in Virginia.

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The 2019 Wilder Symposium will explore
News / September 9, 2019

2019 Wilder Symposium to explore “Race in Academia” September 24

The 2019 Wilder Symposium at Virginia Commonwealth University will explore “race and academia” and will feature the presidents of Virginia State University, the University of Richmond, Reynolds Community College and VCU.

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The Wilder School will present the feature documentary  “Seats at the Table,
News / August 27, 2019

Wilder School to screen "Seats at the Table," a unique documentary film that explores an inmate literature program

On Tuesday, Oct. 1, the Wilder School will present a screening of the feature documentary “Seats at the Table.” Directed by Chris Farina, the film depicts a college class which brings together university students with residents of a maximum-security juvenile correctional center through the study of Russian literature.

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Richmond resident Jeffrey's struggle to find stable housing for his family after an eviction was also shared in the On The Media series The Scarlet E. (Photo: Crixell Matthews/VPM)
News / August 16, 2019

Panel discussion to explore eviction policy, community impact

The Wilder School will host an insightful discussion on housing instability and eviction policy featuring Virginia State Sen. Jennifer McClellan and community activists on Thursday, Sept. 26. The event, “Eviction Beyond the Numbers,” will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 26 at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts.

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The 2019-20 season of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will kick-off on Monday, September 30, with a talk by Norma Riccucci, of Rutgers University at Newark.
News / September 23, 2019

2019-20 Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series to Kick-Off Sept. 30

The 2019-20 season of the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will kick-off on Monday, September 30, with a talk by Norma Riccucci, of Rutgers University at Newark.

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The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy (CPP) has launched CompassPoint, a new podcast series that leverages the research and expertise of the CPP.
News / August 28, 2019

CompassPoint, a new podcast series shares CPP expertise with wide audience

The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy (CPP) has launched CompassPoint, a new podcast series that makes the breadth and depth of CPP faculty expertise easily accessible to a broad audience of citizens, planners, policymakers, investors and businesses.

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A man balancing a figurine of a house atop a precariously stacked stack of wooden blocks.
News / August 1, 2019

More than three in four Virginians see housing affordability as a problem in America today

More than three in four Virginians (78%) see housing affordability as a problem in America today, and almost half (47%) see it as a very serious problem, according to a new statewide poll by the Center for Public Policy at Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs

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Sarah Raskin, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the VCU Wilder School, has co-authored a new study that explores the housing issues experienced by cancer patients and survivors in New York City.
Faculty News / August 28, 2019

Raskin publishes housing, survivorship studies of cancer patients

Sarah Raskin, Ph.D., an assistant professor at the VCU Wilder School, has co-authored a new study that explores the housing issues experienced by cancer patients and survivors in New York City.

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Gary Hack, Ph.D, the 2019 Morton B. Gulak Lecturer in Urban and Regional Planning, against a backdrop of autonomous vehicles  in city traffic.
News / August 16, 2019

Scholar-practitioner Gary Hack to deliver Gulak lecture at VCU on Sept. 18

Gary Hack, an eminent scholar-practitioner who writes and advises on large-scale physical planning and urban design, will deliver the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs’ 2019 Morton B. Gulak Lecture in Urban and Regional Planning on Sept. 18.

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Christina Mancini, Ph.D., an associate professor at the VCU Wilder School, was cited in a Boston Globe article published on Aug. 6.
Faculty News / August 28, 2019

Mancini quoted in Boston Globe article

Christina Mancini, Ph.D., an associate professor at the VCU Wilder School, was recently cited in a Boston Globe article about a $14.4 million settlement reached between Dartmouth College and nine women who claimed they were raped, sexually assaulted or harassed by their professors.

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Support for a Democrat-controlled General Assembly has dropped 9 percentage points since July 2018 (52% percent to 43% percent). (Getty Images)
News / June 26, 2019

Almost 30 percent of Virginians undecided on which party should control the General Assembly

With every House and Senate seat up for election in November, nearly 30% of Virginians remain unsure of which party should win control of the General Assembly in 2020, according to a new poll by the Center for Public Policy at Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs.

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Photograph of Richmond skyline in early evening.
News / July 14, 2019

Wilder School to host talk featuring Richmond 300 Advisory Council

Join the Wilder School for a presentation and panel discussion with members of the Richmond300 Advisory Council working on Richmond’s citywide master plan. Panelists include Wilder School associate professor Damian Pitt and Wilder School alumna and Studio Two Three director Ashley Hawkins (M.P.A. '13).

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William Pelfrey, Ph.D., an associate professor at the VCU Wilder was recently
News / July 15, 2019

Pelfrey featured on live segment of NPR's "OnPoint"

Dr. William Pelfrey, Jr., Ph.D. was recently featured in NPR’s OnPoint during a live segment that contemplated the latest special session on gun control prompted by the mass shooting of Virginia Beach employees on May 31.

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VCU Wilder School staff members Ross Losapio and Ashley Harrison greet students at the 2019 PPIA Public Sector Expo in Washington, D.C. on July 14.
News / July 15, 2019

Wilder School presence at PPIA Expo signals commitment to recruiting diverse candidates

VCU Wilder School faculty, staff and alumni mounted a strong showing at the school's first-ever appearance at the PPIA Public Service Expo held in Washington, D.C. on July 14. An annual event for prospective applicants to public policy and international affairs schools and public sector employers, the expo attracted over 400 students and 100 exhibitors from all over the country.

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Photo of the VCU Police Department headquarters at 224 E. Broad Street in Richmond, Va.
News / July 15, 2019

Wilder School Alumni Networking Breakfast

Join the Wilder School on Thursday, Aug. 15 for a networking breakfast with local alumni from the Criminal Justice and Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness programs who work in law enforcement, public safety and emergency preparedness.

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News / July 19, 2019

Center for Public Policy Spotlight: Dietra Trent, Ph.D., Senior Director of Equity Research and Training

Dietra Trent, Ph.D., an alumna of the VCU Wilder School and the former Secretary of Education for Virginia, is the Wilder School's first senior director of equity research and training.

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News / July 9, 2019

Public Perception of Guns and Public Safety: Findings from the Wilder School’s Public Policy Polls

As lawmakers prepare for a special session to consider issues of gun safety and possession, the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy revisits what is known about the public’s opinions and perceptions of gun policies and related issues of public safety.

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Victor Yau, a particpant in the VCU Wilder School's Public Service Weekend and a former competittive hip-hop dancer, shows off his breakdancing skills while awaiting a tour of the Virginia State Capitol.
News / June 28, 2019

Wilder School Hosts Dynamic Cohort for First-ever PPIA Public Service Weekend

The Wilder School recently hosted the first-ever PPIA Public Service Weekend for a talented and dynamic cohort of students from all over the country. In total, 24 students from 17 states and 21 universities attended the intensive, three-day experience which focused on the theme “Social Equity in Public Policy Analysis.”

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Hand of a young offender against a chain-link fence.
News / June 30, 2019

Barnes publishes study on impact of risk assessment in reducing disparities among juvenile offenders

A new study co-authored by Wilder School assistant professor Ashlee Barnes, Ph.D. suggests that risk assessment may prove helpful in reducing intervention disparities among juvenile offenders.

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News / June 3, 2019

Wilder School Selects inaugural cohort of Public Service Weekend

The VCU Wilder School today announced the 24-member cohort of its inaugural Public Service Weekend, a national program that exposes students from underrepresented groups in public service leadership and education to the rewards of a career in the public sector.In total, 24 students from 17 states and 21 universities will attend the intensive, three-day experience.

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Christopher Whyte,Ph.D., an assistant professor at the VCU Wilder School, displays his latest book, “Understanding Cyber Warfare: Politics, Policy and Strategy.”
News / June 3, 2019

Whyte publishes new book on cyberwarfare

“Understanding Cyber Warfare: Politics, Policy and Strategy,” a recent book co-authored by Wilder faculty member Christopher Whyte, Ph.D., offers students the first intermediate primer on the historical and strategic contexts of cyber conflict.

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News / May 9, 2019

Class of 2019: Richmond’s resurgence changed this grad student’s trajectory

A passion for Richmond and a fascination with its development led Jennifer Tillett to VCU's urban planning program.

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Four students pose in front of their poster
News / May 15, 2019

Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute student workers shine at the Doing REAL poster session

At the Wilder School and across VCU, students are “Making it Real” by applying lessons learned in the classroom to real-world experiences and work opportunities. On April 5, seven undergraduate student workers from the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute (GEHLI) came together to showcase the learning experiences they have had in their roles at GEHLI during the REAL program’s first ever Doing REAL poster session.

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The Spring 2019 Virginia Government Leadership Summit graduates in Roanoke, Virginia
News / May 15, 2019

The Inaugural Virginia Government Leadership Summit stood as a Development Program Unlike Any Other

In light of today's complex leadership environment, the Performance Management Group (PMG) within the Center for Public Policy at VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs provided an opportunity for deep conversation, candid dialogue, external activities, and a sophisticated examination of self.

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News / June 15, 2019

Wilder School Hosts First VCU Public Service Weekend

The Wilder School will host 25 students from all over the nation during the university's first Public Policy & International Affairs (PPIA) Public Service Weekend, June 14-16.

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News / May 7, 2019

Wilder School Spring 2019 Graduation Ceremony

The Wilder School graduation is on Saturday, May 11 at 6:00 pm.

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News / April 23, 2019

2019 MURP Plan-Off!

This year’s Plan-Off! competition on Friday, May 3, will kick-off a fun-filled evening for Wilder School students, faculty and alumni to gather and learn more about the impact of our Master of Urban and Regional Planning Program on the local and regional community.

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Wilder School Associate Professor Sarah Jane Brubaker, has published a new book, “Theorizing Gender Violence.”
News / April 26, 2019

Brubaker Pens New Book, "Theorizing Gender Violence"

Wilder School Associate Professor Sarah Jane Brubaker, has published a new book, “Theorizing Gender Violence," which provides an introduction to critical sociological theories used to understand and respond to gender violence.

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Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., and Brittany Keegan, Ph.D.,have developed a new policy framework that aims to prevent sexual harassment in academia. Early adopters of the policy framework include the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) and the Society for the Study of Social Problems (SSSP).
News / May 1, 2019

Wilder School faculty and staff work to improve sexual harassment policies in academia

Wilder School faculty members Sarah Jane Brubaker and Brittany Keegan have developed a new framework that aims to prevent sexual harassment in academia. Early adopters of the policy include the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) and the Society for the Study of Social Problems (SSSP).

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Wilder School Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D. (center). VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. and EVGA Committee Chair and VCU Board of Visitors member Robert Holsworth, Ph.D., with 2019 EVGA honorees. Back row, left to right: Joseph Walters; Deputy Director of Administration, VA Department of Corrections, Manuel Alvarez; Chairman, Goochland County Board of Supervisors, Gloria Turner; Chairman, Goochl
News / April 12, 2019

2019 Excellence in Virginia Government Honorees Celebrated

More than 250 elected officials, state and local government leaders, business executives and non-profits gathered at the Richmond Marriott to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2019 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards on April 11. The event, which highlighted the achievements of 10 organizations, non-profits, public-private partnerships and individuals who have made significant contributions to Commonwealth communities, was hosted by the VCU Wilder School.

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The 2019 Virginia's Fair Housing Summit is Monday, April 15.
News / March 25, 2019

Wilder School, HOME Sponsoring Housing Equality Conference

On Monday, April 15, the Wilder School and Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME) of Virginia will host the second annual Virginia’s Fair Housing Summit, a daylong conference designed to disrupt the legacy of historic and systemic housing discrimination in our communities.

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Image of U.S. News & World Report Emblem
News / March 12, 2019

Wilder School Soars to No. 39 in Latest U.S. News & World Report

The Wilder School ranks among the top 40 of the nation's best graduate public affairs programs—moving up five places to No. 39 in the most recent U.S. News & World Report rankings.

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News / February 19, 2019

HSEP’s Online Master’s Program Ranked No. 9 in the Nation

The Wilder School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program has been ranked the 9th best online master’s in emergency management program in the nation by Online Master’s.

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Keith Parker (B.A.'90/H&S; M.U.R.P.'93/GPA), president and CEO of Goodwill of North Georgia, will deliver the keynote address at the Wilder School graduation ceremony on Saturday, May 11.
News / March 24, 2019

Goodwill CEO and Alumnus to Speak at Wilder Graduation

Keith Parker (B.A.'90/H&S; M.U.R.P.'93/GPA), president and CEO of Goodwill of North Georgia, will deliver the keynote address at the Wilder School graduation ceremony Saturday, May 11.

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 Jesiaah Hoskins, Feven Negussie and Jacob Parcell spent the winter at the Capitol writing speeches, researching bills and meeting with constituents.
News / March 1, 2019

Virginia Capitol Semester: Life-long Connections and Legislative Experience

In 46 days three Virginia Commonwealth University Seniors have gained experience that will last them a lifetime.

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Elias Frantz’s interests in Latin American studies and urban planning have taken him to Argentina, where he is working to help develop a local neighborhood.
News / February 28, 2019

In Buenos Aires, a VCU Gilman Scholar is Learning How to Build Better Cities

Elias Frantz’s interests in Latin American studies and urban planning have taken him to Argentina, where he is working to help develop a local neighborhood.

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Francis Gary Powers Jr., is the author of “Spy Pilot,” a new book that examines the life and experiences of his father, a famous Cold War pilot who was shot down by the Soviets and subsequently interrogated, tried and imprisoned.
News / March 1, 2019

Son of Cold War U-2 Pilot to Speak at Wilder School

The son of the most famous Cold War pilot, Francis Gary Powers Sr., who was shot down in a U-2 spy plane over the Soviet Union, will address students during a live talk at the VCU Wilder School at 7 p.m. on Monday, March 11.

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Teresa Cordova, director of the Great Cities Institute (GCI) at the University of Illinois at Chicago, will give a talk at the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series on Monday, March 18 at the Raleigh Building from 1-2:30 p.m.
News / March 15, 2019

Leading Economic Development Guru to Speak at Doctoral Lecture Series

The Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy will conclude its debut season on Monday, March 18, with a talk by Teresa Córdova, Ph.D., director of the Great Cities Institute (GCI) at the University Of Illinois at Chicago.

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“Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City,” by Matthew Desmond, Ph.D., has been selected as Virginia Commonwealth University’s 2019 Common Book.
News / March 1, 2019

‘Evicted,’ which revealed impact of national eviction crisis, selected as VCU’s Common Book

“Evicted: Poverty and Profit in the American City,” by Matthew Desmond has been selected as the 2019 Common Book for Virginia Commonwealth University. The book, which revolves around eight families—each teetering on the brink of homelessness--dovetails closely with the work of the Wilder School’s RVA Eviction Lab, a key partner in this year's Common Book program.

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News / February 25, 2019

Professor Quoted in USA Today Story about Sex Trafficking Victims

Wilder School professor Jay Albanese was quoted in a USA Today article about the victims of human trafficking and prostitution in the U.S. In the article, Albanese, a leading expert on transnational and organized crime and corruption, describes human trafficking “one of the most serious of all crimes.”

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News / February 18, 2019

What’s Driving Evictions in Richmond?

The RVA Eviction Lab at VCU’s Wilder School has received a Ford Foundation grant to understand the causes — and the impact — of Richmond’s eviction rate, the second highest in the country.

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University of Virginia President James Ryan, Wilder School Interim Dean Susan Gooden and Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni.
News / February 25, 2019

Gooden to Join Ryan and Qarni for School Equity Discussion

On March 4, Wilder School Interim Dean Susan Gooden will join UVA President James Ryan and Virginia Secretary of Education Atif Qarni to discuss the history of the educational divide between Richmond’s urban and suburban schools.

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News / October 31, 2018

Pitt Appointed to State Solar and Energy Storage Authority

Damian Pitt, Ph.D., chair of the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program and an expert in alternative energy, has been named to the Virginia Solar Energy Development and Energy Storage Authority.

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2019 ASPA Honorees (left to right): Susan Gooden, interim dean and professor; Blue Wooldridge, professor; Sombo Chunda, doctoral student; Suparna Dutta, doctoral student; and Myung Jin, associate professor and chair.
News / February 19, 2019

Faculty and Students Earn Top Honors at ASPA

Five Wilder School faculty and students will receive top honors and distinctions at the Annual American Society for Public Administration Conference. The honors, which recognize outstanding scholarly achievement and career contributions to public service, will be presented ­­­­during a series of ceremonies held in Washington, D.C., March 8-12.

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News / February 18, 2019

Wilder School Announces 2019 EVGA Honorees

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University will honor individuals and organizations who have made noteworthy contributions to the practice of government and the betterment of the state on Thursday, April 11.

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News / January 24, 2019

Interim Dean Susan Gooden to be Honored as Outstanding Woman

Susan Gooden, Ph.D., interim dean of the Wilder School, is one of eight recipients of the YWCA Richmond’s 2019 Outstanding Women Awards.

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News / February 19, 2019

CPP to Host Brown Bag Panel on Economic Development

Join us on Wednesday, February 20, for a compelling panel discussion on economic development policy, employment and housing initiatives within the Commonwealth.

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News / January 10, 2019

Virginians Narrowly Support Public Investment to Land Amazon HQ2

Just under half of Virginians say bringing one of Amazon’s second headquarters to the state will create more benefits than the investment costs, while 41 percent believe the state is investing too much in the deal, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / January 17, 2019

Wilder School to Host Panel About Immigration

The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy will host a panel discussion on Thursday, February 28, that offers first-hand perspectives of the work of some local organizations with immigrants.

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News / January 8, 2019

Virginians Evenly Divided on the Idea of Armed Teachers

Virginians are almost evenly split between favoring and opposing a state law that would allow localities to train teachers and administrators to be armed in schools, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / January 17, 2019

Next Wilder School Doctoral Lecture is February 4

Brian Williams, Ph.D., visiting professor of public policy in the Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia, will be the next speaker in the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy on Monday, February 4.

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News / November 15, 2018

2019 EVGA Will Be Held April 11

The Wilder School is pleased to announce the 13th Excellence in Virginia Government Awards (EVGA) on April 11, 2019, at the downtown Richmond Marriott.

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News / January 4, 2019

Quarter of Virginians Don’t Know Which Party They Want to Win Control of General Assembly in 2019

With every House of Delegates and state Senate seat up for election this November, and both chambers narrowly held by Republicans, a quarter of Virginians don’t know yet which party they want to control the General Assembly in 2020, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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A chart showing the issues voters saw as most important in determining their vote in the 2018 Virginia Senate election.  Responding to the Trump administration, with a plurality of 25 percent, led among six options.
News / December 20, 2018

In 2018 Elections, Plurality of Virginia Voters Focused on Responding to Trump Administration

Though President Donald Trump wasn’t on the ballot in 2018, one-quarter of voters in Virginia’s U.S. Senate and House elections say they made their choices as a response to his administration, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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GRTC Pulse bus rolling through downtown Richmond.
News / December 20, 2018

Transit Access for Low-Income Richmond Households Remains an Issue, Even After GRTC Reroute

While recent changes to Richmond’s public bus network have improved the region’s access to retail, business and job centers, transit accessibility for the area’s low-income households remains the same or has decreased, according to a new study by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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 Wilder School doctoral student Dhara Amin presents a paper at the conference.
News / November 20, 2018

Wilder School Shares Research at Criminology Conference

The Wilder School made an impactful showing at the annual conference of the American Society of Criminology, held Nov. 14-17 in Atlanta.

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Top: L. Douglas Wilder, Virginia's 66th governor; Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D.; Governor Ralph Northam; and Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax. Second: Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball; Gov.  Northam; Lt. Gov. Fairfax; and Secretary of Education Atif Qarni. Below: Gov. Wilder, Dr. Gooden and Gov. Northam listen to VCU Provost Gail Hackett's welcoming remarks.
News / December 17, 2018

Gov. Northam Makes Budget Announcement at Wilder School

Gov. Northam Makes Budget Announcement at Wilder School

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Wilder School delegation members at the APPAM Student Mixer on Nov. 9. From left to right: Jill Gordon, Ph.D., Elsie Harper-Anderson, Ph.D., Yali Pang, Susan Gooden, Ph.D., and Nathan Teklemariam.
News / November 15, 2018

Wilder School Builds Presence at Leading Policy Conference

A notably diverse sampling of faculty, students and researchers from the Wilder School’s core academic programs and Centers for Public Policy (CPP) traveled to the annual Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM) Fall Research Conference in Washington, D.C. Overall, nine members of the Wilder School community participated as presenters, exhibitors and hosts of featured conference events.

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Governor L. Douglas Wilder will deliver remarks at the Wilder School's graduation.
News / November 27, 2018

Fall Graduation is December 8

The Wilder School’s 2018 fall graduation will take place on Saturday, December 8, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, Exhibit Hall C, starting at 2:30 p.m.

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News / November 20, 2018

Wilder School to Participate in VCU 50 Symposium

Higher education leaders, faculty experts and notable Virginia Commonwealth University alumni will gather Friday, November 30, at a daylong symposium marking the 50th anniversary of the merger that created VCU.

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The Fall 2018 Virginia Executive Institute graduates conclude with their class photo at the state Capitol.
News / November 8, 2018

Virginia Executive Institute Grows Leaders and Fosters Connections

For more than two decades, the Performance Management Group within the Center for Public Policy at VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs has provided a dynamic forum for leaders of today and tomorrow to examine and enhance their abilities as thinkers, decision makers and leaders.

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The Wilder School delegation at the NAPA Fall Meeting included, from left to right are Dr. Blue Wooldridge; MPA student and Wilder Fellow Javon Johnson; doctoral student Sombo Chunda; Interim Dean Dr. Susan Gooden; NAPA President Teresa Gerton; doctoral student Suparna Dutta; MHSEP student and Wilder Fellow Conor Blackwood; doctoral student Corey Miles; and William Leighty, adjunct professor.
News / November 7, 2018

Wilder Faculty, Students Attend NAPA Meeting

The Wilder School sent an impressive delegation of faculty and graduate students to the recent 2018 Academy Fall Meeting of the National Academy of Public Administration, whose theme focused on “Grand Challenges in Public Administration.”

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News / October 29, 2018

Wilder School Alumna Among This Year’s VCU 10 Under 10

Wilder School alumna Leah Fremouw (B.A.’08/H&S; M.P.A.’10/GPA) is among this year’s VCU Alumni 10 Under 10 award recipients who will be honored this Friday in a special ceremony.

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News / September 20, 2018

Student Scholarship Deadline is Nov. 12

Applications for Wilder School undergraduate and graduate scholarships for the 2019-2020 academic year are due Monday, November 12.

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News / October 15, 2018

Cindy Redcross of MDRC to Speak on Oct. 30

Cindy Redcross, deputy director of MDRC’s Health and Barriers to Employment policy area, will be the next speaker in the Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy on Tuesday, October 30.

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News / October 24, 2018

Doctoral Student Receives Research Grant

Dhara Amin, a Wilder School doctoral candidate, has received a prestigious research grant from the Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA) for her dissertation project, “Students’ Awareness, Knowledge, and Perceptions of Mandatory Reporting of Sexual Victimization on College Campuses.”

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News / July 13, 2018

New Wilder Initiative Tracks Richmond's Eviction Epidemic & Effects

A new initiative by two Wilder School Urban and Regional Studies and Planning professors aims to collect data and analyze the chronic eviction problem in Richmond and Virginia.

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Wilder School 2018 NASPAA Faculty Delegation with Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta President, Raphael Bostic. Back row, left to right: William Pelfrey, Blue Wooldridge, Raphael Bostic, Susan Gooden, Elsie Harper-Anderson, Myung Jin. Front row, left to right: Sarah Jane-Brubaker, Robyn McDougle, Shajuana Isom-Payne and Wilder alumna Najmah Thomas.
News / October 19, 2018

Wilder School Makes Strong Showing at NASPAA Conference

Some of the brightest minds in public administration education gathered for the 2018 Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration Conference (NASPAA) in downtown Atlanta last week. It was an impressive display of intellectual superstars that included 13 Wilder School faculty and students participants, 11 presenters and one honoree.

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News / August 14, 2018

Virginians See Schools as Safe, Look Increasingly to Mental Health Approaches to School Safety

Six months after a shooting rampage left 17 dead at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Florida, a new statewide poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University finds that Virginians increasingly see mental health approaches as important for school safety.

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Sarah Huggins Scarbrough and Franklin Wallace.
News / October 17, 2018

Scarbrough and Wallace to be Honored at Alumni Volunteer Service Awards

VCU Alumni will recognize two Wilder School graduates—Sarah Huggins Scarbrough and Franklin Wallace—during the university’s Biennial Alumni Volunteer Service Awards this week. The awards, which will be presented during a private dinner and ceremony on Oct. 19, celebrate alumni who have worked with particular devotion to serve the VCU community.

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Majora Carter will deliver this year's Gulak Lecture on Oct. 17.
News / July 25, 2018

Majora Carter to Deliver 2018 Gulak Lecture on Oct. 17

Majora Carter, a leading urban revitalization strategy consultant, real estate developer and Peabody Award winning broadcaster, will deliver the Wilder School’s 2018 Morton B. Gulak Lecture in Urban and Regional Planning on Wednesday, October 17, at 7 p.m. in the University Student Commons.

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News / October 10, 2018

Wilder School Spotlight: Alumnus Joseph P. Casey, Ph.D.

Joseph P. Casey, Ph.D., earned his Master of Public Administration from the Wilder School in 1995 and his doctorate in 2013. He is county administrator of Chesterfield County, Virginia’s fourth most populous, and has enjoyed an impressive career in public service. He shares his story.

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Governor L. Douglas Wilder listens to U.S. Rep. Robert
News / October 8, 2018

Wilder Symposium: Modern Challenges to Persistent Inequities

The 2018 Wilder Symposium challenged the public and policymakers to confront inequities in education, housing and transportation in urban communities and make redressing long-standing imbalances a priority.

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 Wilder Fellows with Interim Dean Susan Gooden. Left to right: Jeffrey Crawford, Ashley Ferguson, Maya Coleman, J’Niyah Knox-Wilson, Linwood Rogers, Conor Blackwood, Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D., Lark Washington, Eric Mai, Aleigh Faulk, Gabriella Pino-Moreno, and Javon Johnson
News / September 27, 2018

Introducing the 2018 Wilder Fellows

This year’s cohort of Wilder Fellows includes 13 promising scholars with diverse backgrounds and research interests. They include recent graduates from highly selective universities including the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Virginia and the University of Leicester.

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Silent Witness organizer Amy Cook, Ph.D., (right) chair of the Wilder School's Criminal Justice program, and student volunteer Roxanna Dodson stand next to some of the life-sized cutouts that visually represent the victims of intimate partner violence.
News / October 2, 2018

Silent Witnesses Speak Loud Message Against Domestic Violence

VCU’s 2018 Silent Witness Exhibit is part of the university’s annual observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This week, Oct. 1-5, the exhibit is on display on the second floor of the James Branch Cabell Library.

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Wilder School Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D., recently participated in the 5th World Conference on Remedies to Racial and Ethnic Economic Inequality in Brazil. (Below) Gooden joins Laura Bloomberg, dean of the Humphrey School at the University of Minnesota, and Charles Menifield, dean of the  School of Public Affairs and Administration, Rutgers University-Newark.
News / October 1, 2018

Gooden Joins International Conference on Curbing Inequalities

Susan Gooden, Ph.D., interim dean of the Wilder School and an internationally recognized expert on social equity and public policy, participated in the 5th World Conference on Remedies to Racial and Ethnic Economic Inequality in Brazil.

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News / September 10, 2018

Wilder Symposium to Examine the Role of Urban Communities in Improving Housing, Education and Public Policy on Oct. 3

The Wilder School will host a symposium, “"By the People: The Role of Urban Communities in Improving Housing, Education and Public Policy" on Wednesday, October 3, that will provide a robust discussion of the current challenges and opportunities for urban communities as they seek to improve.

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Governor L. Douglas Wilder delivers his keynote address at the Kerner Conference.
News / September 20, 2018

Wilder School Leads Discussion on Kerner Commission 50 Years Later

The 5oth Anniversary of the Kerner Commission Report National Conference drew an audience of nearly 200 and featured a prominent delegation of Wilder School faculty including Governor L. Douglas Wilder, who delivered a keynote address.

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John Accordino, Ph.D.
News / September 20, 2018

Accordino to Serve as Guest Professor in Germany

John Accordino, Ph.D., FAICP, professor in the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program, will be a guest professor at Bauhaus University in Weimar, Germany, during the upcoming winter semester.

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VCU President Dr. Michael Rao, who gave welcoming remarks, stands with moderators Dr. Robyn McDougle, director of the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy, and Joel Silverman, M.D., chair of the Department of Psychiatry.
News / September 12, 2018

Wilder School, VCU Department of Psychiatry Host Mental Health Mini-University

Policymakers, researchers and the public recognize a need for policies that provide mental health services efficiently and effectively to those who need them, but the complexities of mental illness and the development of new knowledge from research mean legislators may struggle to stay up to date.

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News / March 29, 2018

2018 Plan-Off! Offers Two Days of Activities

This year’s Plan-Off! competition on Friday, April 27, will kick off two days of activities for Wilder School students, staff, faculty and alumni to gather and learn more about the impact we have on the community.

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News / August 28, 2018

New Doctoral Lecture Series Starts Sept. 18

The Wilder School Doctoral Lecture Series in Public Policy debuts on Tuesday, September 18, with a talk by Naim Kapucu, Ph.D., of the University of Central Florida.

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News / September 11, 2018

NASPAA to Honor Jin for Service as Pi Alpha Alpha Adviser

Myung Hun Jin, Ph.D., chair of the Wilder School’s Master of Public Administration program, is the recipient of the 2018 Pi Alpha Alpha Chapter Advisor Award of Excellence from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA).

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VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D., Governor L. Douglas Wilder, and Robert Holsworth, Ph.D., member of VCU's Board of Visitors, formally cut the ribbon to officially mark the opening of the Raleigh Building.
News / September 7, 2018

Wilder School Formally Dedicates New Raleigh Building

The Wilder School officially dedicated the renovated Raleigh Building on August 30, celebrating our newest property with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

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News / September 4, 2018

Forum to Bring Together Policymakers, VCU Experts to Focus on Challenges Facing State Mental Health System

A “Mental Health Mini-University” will bring together policymakers and Virginia Commonwealth University researchers and officials for a discussion on the continued challenges facing the mental health system in Virginia.

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News / July 25, 2018

50th Anniversary of Kerner Commission Report National Conference Is Sept. 5-7

The Wilder School is cosponsoring the 50th Anniversary of the Kerner Commission Report National Conference on September 5-7 in Minneapolis, a major colloquium on race relations in America featuring urban leaders, highly accomplished scholars, thought leaders and historical eyewitnesses.

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News / August 20, 2018

Top Five Events You Shouldn’t Miss During Welcome Week

Whether you’re a freshman interested in homeland security or a transfer student ready to take on the field of criminal justice, Welcome Week — a series of events hosted throughout the university August 18-26 — will help you get the most out of campus and prepare you for a successful year at VCU.

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Above, Blue Wooldridge, D.P.A., was honored with VCU's 2018 Distinguished Service Award. Below, Wilder School faculty congratulate him after convocation. (Photo by Tom Kojcsich, University Relations.)
News / August 23, 2018

VCU Honors Wooldridge with Distinguished Service Award

Wilder School Professor Blue E. Wooldridge, D.P.A., received the university’s 2018 Distinguished Service Award during the 36th annual faculty convocation program held Wednesday, August 22.

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News / August 23, 2018

Virginians Support Community-based Treatment Programs for Nonviolent Offenders

More than 8 in 10 Virginians favor letting nonviolent offenders with mental illness participate in community-based treatment programs instead of being sentenced to prison or jail, according to a new statewide poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / August 16, 2018

Majority of Virginians See Community Colleges, Public Universities as Worth the Cost

A majority of Virginians see two-year community colleges and four-year public universities as worth the cost, according to a new statewide poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / August 10, 2018

Wilder School Poll: Police Should Have Ability to Restrict Weapons at Protests, Other Public Demonstrations

On the eve of the one-year anniversary of the violent white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, Virginians favor giving law enforcement the ability to restrict weapons at public protests and other assemblies, according to a new statewide poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / August 8, 2018

Kaine Leads U.S. Senate Race by 23 Points, Wilder School Poll Shows

Democratic U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine holds a commanding 23-point lead — 49 percent to 26 percent — over Republican challenger Corey Stewart among likely voters in Virginia’s Senate race, according to a new statewide poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. Twenty percent of likely voters and 57 percent of independents remain undecided.

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News / August 7, 2018

Keegan Helps to Organize Statewide Refugee Mental Health Summit

Brittany Keegan, a Ph.D. candidate in the Wilder School and the research coordinator and Land Use Education Program director in the Center for Public Policy, chaired the organizing committee for the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Service’s Fifth Annual Statewide Refugee Mental Health Summit.

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News / August 2, 2018

Teresa Wins Award After Being Nominated by Students

Benjamin Teresa, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program, is this year’s Virginia Commonwealth University’s faculty winner of the American Planning Association-Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award.

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News / August 1, 2018

CURA Maps Indicators of Distress for Richmond’s Northside Neighborhoods

The Wilder School’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis within the Center for Public Policy recently conducted a study to map indicators of distress for Richmond’s Northside neighborhoods.

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News / July 31, 2018

Cleary Receives National Honor

Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., assistant professor of Criminal Justice, is this year’s recipient of the Louise Kidder Early Career Award from the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues (SPSSI).

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News / July 3, 2018

Center for Public Policy to House Land Use Education Program

The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy is now home to the acclaimed Land Use Education Program, the nation’s first structured training program for people who serve on local planning commissions.

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Wilder School Interim Dean Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., delivered a lecture titled,
News / July 2, 2018

Susan Gooden Makes History at International Conference

Wilder School Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D., became the first person from the United States and the fourth woman to deliver the Braibant Lecture at the 2018 Congress of the International Institute of Administrative Sciences (IIAS), held June 25-29 in Tunis, Tunisia.

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Chernoh Wurie, a criminal justice instructor at the VCU Wilder School, with his class.
News / June 29, 2018

Wurie Wins University Award for Faculty Mentorship

Chernoh Wurie, Ph.D., a criminal justice instructor at the VCU Wilder School, has received the university’s highest award for faculty mentorship.

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Lindsey Evans (M.P.A.’08, Ph.D.’17) has accepted a tenure-track position in the Department of Urban and Public Affairs at the University of Louisville. Below: Dr. Susan Gooden presents Evans with her hood during the Wilder School's doctoral hooding ceremony in December.
News / April 25, 2018

Alumna and Staffer Heads to Louisville

For more than a decade, Lindsey Evans (M.P.A.’08, Ph.D.’17), a hurricane-force of can-do and personality, has served the Wilder School’s various constituents as a graduate assistant, instructor, program coordinator and research associate. Next week, the Georgia native will depart her beloved alma mater to assume a tenure-track position in the Department of Urban and Public Affairs at the University of Louisville.

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News / June 25, 2018

CURA Report Tracks Richmond Region’s Income Growth Pattern

The city of Richmond and the region’s outer counties led the area in the growth of median household income between 2000 and 2016, according to a new report by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Julianne Sloskey, a Wilder School student and exchange participant in the VCU Partnership with Rabdan Academy, outside the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
News / April 12, 2018

Rabdan Academy Offers Unique UAE Study Abroad Experience

For Wilder School students looking for study abroad experiences in destinations less traveled, the VCU Partnership with Rabdan Academy offers semester study in Abu Dhabi, a metropolis situated along the coast of the Arabian Sea which offers a unique perspective on Emirati culture and the Arab-Islamic world.

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The Wilder School group and colleagues from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of Academic Engagement gather during the conference. From left are Associate Professor James Keck; Kaitlin Signor of the DHS; students Garrett Stefaniak, Nathan Moorhead, Abigail Hobbs, Kevin Chevitanon; and Trent Frazier of the DHS.
News / June 20, 2018

HSEP Students Help During Regional DHS Exercise

Four students in the Wilder School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program recently provided support to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s 2018 Charlottesville Regional Tabletop Exercise for Institutions of Higher Education (RTTX).

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(Top) Fabrizio Fasulo, Ph.D., director of the Wilder School's Center for Urban and Regional Analysis, shared information at  the Communities and Public Safety Stakeholders’ Roundtable: An Analysis of Root Causes of Crime in the City of Richmond. (Below) Sarin Adhikari, Ph.D., research economist at CURA, makes a presentation.
News / June 19, 2018

CURA and SERL Assist with “Project Safe Neighborhood”

Two units of the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy—the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis and the Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory—are supporting the Office of the Virginia Attorney General’s “Project Safe Neighborhood,” an effort to help reduce gun and gang violence among local youth.

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Portraits of Sarah Jane Brubaker and Benjamin Teresa
News / June 14, 2018

Two Wilder School Faculty Receive PeRQ Awards

Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., chair of the Wilder School’s doctoral program, and Benjamin Teresa, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program, have received VCU Presidential Research Quest Fund (PeRQ) Awards.

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Susan Gooden, Ph.D., Wilder School Interim Dean and Professor, is the co-author of “Why Research Methods Matter,” a refreshingly accessible new textbook that hits the sweet-spot between sound, scientific-driven inquiry and the political and economic considerations of real-world evaluation and policymaking. The book, available from Melvin and Leigh Publishing, hits shelves later this month.
News / June 7, 2018

Gooden Publishes New Research Methods Text

Susan Gooden, Wilder School Interim Dean and Professor, has co-authored “Why Research Methods Matter,” a refreshingly accessible new textbook that hits the sweet-spot between sound, scientific-driven inquiry and the political and economic considerations of real-world evaluation and policymaking. The book, available from Melvin and Leigh Publishing, hits shelves later this month.

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News / May 17, 2018

“The Color of Law”: A Forgotten History of How Our Government Segregated America

The Wilder School and Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia are co-sponsoring a lecture by Richard Rothstein, author of the critically acclaimed book, "The Color of Law," on Wednesday, June 13 at 6 p.m., in VCU's T. Edward Temple Building, 901

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News / June 8, 2017

The Latest News from the Wilder School Faculty

Stay up to date on the latest news from the Wilder School faculty.

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(Top) German exchange students, accompanied by their Wilder School hosts, tour Richmond's Fulton neighborhood. (Middle) German students presented to the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission on their system of planning and land use. (Below) Eights students are visiting from the University of Kaiserslautern, accompanied by two professors.
News / May 23, 2018

Wilder School, German University Exchanging Ideas About Land-Use Challenges

The Wilder School is hosting this week eight students and two professors from the University of Kaiserslautern in Germany as part of the 2018 Trans-Atlantic Development Seminar.

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Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee members Shajuana Isom-Payne and Chernoh Wurie, Ph.D., pose for a photo at the Wilder School's graduation ceremony on May 12, 2018.
News / May 17, 2018

Diversity Committee’s New Name and New Members Focus on Inclusion

Earlier this month, Wilder School faculty and staff voted to expand the name of an advisory body focused on diversity to the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. For the first time in its history, the committee will include students.

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News / May 8, 2018

Wilder School Expert: Virginia Should Expand Distributed Solar Energy Usage

Distributed solar energy can provide at least 5 to 10 percent of the nation’s electricity demand, without causing negative impacts to the electrical grid or significant rate increases for consumers, according to new research by a Wilder School expert in alternative energy.

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News / May 7, 2018

Gooden Named Interim Dean of Wilder School

Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., professor of public administration and policy, has been named interim dean of the Wilder School, effective Tuesday, May 15.

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News / May 3, 2018

Delegate Lamont Bagby to Speak at Wilder School Graduation on May 12

Del. Lamont Bagby of Henrico County will deliver the Wilder School’s graduation address on Saturday, May 12.

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The Wilder School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program has been ranked the 10th best online master’s in emergency management program in the nation by bestcolleges.com.
News / April 30, 2018

HSEP’s Online Master’s Program Ranked No.10 in U.S

The Wilder School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program has been ranked the 10th best online master’s in emergency management program in the nation by bestcolleges.com.

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News / April 26, 2018

Lawmakers, Educators Join Wilder School Discussion About School Safety and Education Policy

The Wilder School convened legislators, public safety officials and educators from across the state at two events on April 23 to examine school safety in Virginia and to mark the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Commonwealth Educational Policy Institute.

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Top, left to right: Dhara Amin, Sarah Jane Brubaker and Amy Cook. Bottom, left to right: Christina Mancini, Tammi Slovinsky and Fatima Smith..
News / April 23, 2018

Six Women, Six Approaches to Sexual Violence

This week during Sexual Assault Awareness Month, we examine the work of six women at the Wilder School—three faculty members, a Title IX administrator, a former victim’s advocate, and a research analyst from the Department of Juvenile Justice—each,working in diverse ways to end the scourge of sexual violence.

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News / April 18, 2018

Wilder School Honors Outstanding Students and Faculty

The Wilder School recently honored outstanding faculty and students during recognition programs for academic, teaching, research, scholarship and mentoring excellence.

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Wilder School M.P.A. Student Maya Simpkins (middle), who won the Phillips G. Davies Graduate Student Presentation Award at the 46th Annual Conference of the Association for Ethnic Studies, stands with Ravi Perry, Ph.D. (right), chair of the VCU Political Science Department and conference chair, and Julia Jordan-Zachery, president of AES.
News / March 12, 2018

Wilder School Student Wins Prestigious Award

Maya Simpkins, a student in the Wilder School’s Master of Public Administration program, received the prestigious Phillip G. Davies Graduate Student Presentation Award at the 46th Annual Conference of the Association for Ethnic Studies, held last week at VCU.

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Winners of the Metro Richmond Exports Initiatives and representatives of the Virginia Gateway Region and Greater Richmond Partnership gather after the competition.
News / January 30, 2018

Five Area Businesses Win $5,000 Awards at MREI Pitch Panel

Five Richmond-area businesses each won $5,000 in the Metro Richmond Exports Initiative’s pitch panel competition at the group’s annual meeting on Thursday, Jan 25.

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News / April 16, 2018

VCU Wilder School, Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security to Host School Safety Forum

The VCU Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy and the Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security are sponsoring a forum on school safety on Monday, April 23, that will examine how officials can best assess, investigate and resolve potential threats as well as the evolving role of school resource officers.

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(Top) Joseph Costello, president of Friends of the Pump House and a 2017 graduate of the Wilder School's Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, coordinates volunteers at a recent cleanup. (Middle) The Pump House is a grand example of Gothic Revival architecture. (Bottom) Lyn Lanier,
News / April 4, 2018

Wilder School Students, Graduates Leading Effort to Restore Pump House

The granite gables of the Pump House stretch toward the skies like spires on a cathedral, a Richmond landmark on the north bank of the James River that’s sat unused for nearly 80 years — and Wilder School students and alumni are helping to change that.

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Image of five gold stars.
News / March 21, 2018

Wilder School Moves Up in National Rankings

The Wilder School moved up 12 places in the most recent U.S. News & World Report rankings, released March 20, for best graduate public affairs program, ranking 44th in the nation.

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Top right: Zach Villegas with Del. R. Steven Landes. Bottom right: Elizabeth Dexter with legislative assistant Janet Muldoon. Dexter, a junior majoring in criminal justice and homeland security and emergency preparedness, interned in the office of Senate Democratic Leader Dick Saslaw.
News / March 22, 2018

Legislative Program Gives Students a Leg-up on the Future

Eight-week internship provides unrivaled access to the Virginia General Assembly and career-making experience for diverse majors.

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(Top) Wilder School students study a tombstone. (Middle) Assistant Professor Kathryn Howell, Ph.D., and students look to see what Evergreen Cemetery Caretaker Ted Maris-Wolf is uncovering. (Below) Wilder School students watch their steps as they walk through the cemetery's vine-clogged paths.
News / March 7, 2018

Wilder School Students Help Restore the Past, Plan for Future

A monstrous tangle of ivy and kudzu vines clog many pathways and bury much of Historic Evergreen Cemetery under a blanket of neglect. Some tombstones are so worn their names are illegible. Others lay crumbled, shrouded by a towering canopy of trees.

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L. Douglas Wilder, the 66th Governor of Virginia and a Distinguished Professor was the featured guest of the Wilder School’s Lunch and Learn Zoom presentation on May 19.
News / March 2, 2018

Wilder School to Mount Impressive Showing at National Conference

Thirteen Wilder School faculty and students—including Governor L. Douglas Wilder and ASPA Immediate Past President and Professor, Susan Gooden, Ph.D.—will present more than 20 presentations during the 2018 American Society for Public Administration Conference to be held in Denver, March 9-13. With more than 7,500 members representing every level and function of government and nonprofits, ASPA is the nation's preeminent association for public management.

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News / February 22, 2018

Criminal Justice Program Represented at Academy Meeting

The Wilder School was well represented at the 55th annual meeting of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, held Feb. 13-17 in New Orleans and that drew 1,500 participants.

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News / February 19, 2018

ASPA to Honor Governor Wilder with Social Equity Award

L. Douglas Wilder, distinguished professor at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University and Virginia’s 66th governor, will receive the American Society for Public Administration Gloria Hobson Nordin Social Equity Award at ASPA’s upcoming annual conference in Denver, Colorado.

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Dr. Grace Harris, who retired as a distinguished professor at the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy and was the first African-American woman to serve as the chief academic officer of a four-year public university in Virginia, died on Monday, February 12.
News / February 13, 2018

Grace E. Harris, Trailblazer and Breaker of Glass Ceilings, Dies at 84

Dr. Grace E. Harris, who retired as a distinguished professor at the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy and was the first African-American woman to serve as the chief academic officer of a four-year public university in Virginia, died on Monday, February 12.

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News / February 13, 2018

Wilder School Report Analyzes Virginia’s Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program

During an annual legislative reception hosted last week, First Lady Pam Northam highlighted the findings of two just-completed studies that show the sustained and substantial contribution preservation makes to Virginia’s economy through the incentives of state historic rehabilitation tax credits (RTCs) to repurpose and recycle old buildings.

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News / February 1, 2018

Lowery to Receive Award

Patrick Lowery, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Wilder School’s Criminal Justice program, will receive the SAGE Junior Faculty Professional Development Teaching Award during the annual meeting of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.

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News / February 8, 2018

Graduate Information Session on February 23

Learn about the Wilder School’s graduate programs and how they can help advance your career at the "Why Wilder? Graduate Information Session" on Friday, February 23.

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Sombo Chunda is a doctoral student at the VCU Wilder School.
News / February 6, 2018

Wilder Student Helps Chart New Interest Area at ASPA

Sombo Chunda, a doctoral candidate in public policy in administration, is the interim secretary of a new section of the American Society for Public Administration that aims to advance the welfare of more than 1.3 billion Africans by promoting the practice and instruction of public service education on the continent.

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News / January 24, 2018

Minority Political Leadership Institute Seeking Participants

The VCU Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute, housed in the Wilder School, is recruiting participants for the 2018 Minority Political Leadership Institute.

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News / January 18, 2018

Wilder School to Host Panel About Opioid Epidemic on Feb. 6

The Wilder School will hold a panel about the nation’s opioid epidemic on Tuesday, February 6, that will focus on how the deterioration of communities has invited and encouraged drug use and crime.

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News / January 25, 2018

Public safety only Virginia program area viewed by majority as efficient in using taxpayer funds

Only one state program area — public safety— is thought of as efficient or very efficient by a majority of Virginians, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / January 23, 2018

Treatment centers, housing for those in opioid recovery supported by large majority of Virginians

A large majority of Virginians support expansion of treatment centers and the use of housing in their own communities for those recovering from opioid use, a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University shows.

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News / January 16, 2018

Half of Virginia Adults Would Oppose a Ban on Anthem Protests in Public School Sports

As National Football League players continue to sit or kneel in protest during the national anthem, a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University shows that Virginians are almost evenly divided on whether they would support a rule prohibiting high school athletes from engaging in similar protests.

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News / January 9, 2018

Almost half of Virginians want Confederate monuments left in place, remainder split on actions

Virginians are split over what course of action to take with Confederate monuments, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / January 5, 2018

More Virginia Voters Pulled Lever in Response to Trump Administration than Confederate Monuments

More than one in five voters in Virginia’s recent gubernatorial election say they made their decision in response to the Trump administration, according to a new poll by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Wilder School Spotlight / December 15, 2017

Wilder School Spotlight: Meet Erna Ruijer

Erna Ruijer is currently a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Utrecht, where she is working on government transparency research with European Union as part of its Horizon 2020 research and innovation program.

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News / December 14, 2017

Wilder Doctoral Student Selected for National Fellowship

Nathan Teklemariam (M.U.R.P.,'13), a doctoral student whose research examines international economic development and fair housing, has been named a 2018 American Society for Public Administration Founders’ Fellow.

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Mona Elrayah is a second-year Wilder School M.P.A. student who recently shared her experiences as an immigrant at a TEDxYouth@RVA talk.
News / December 13, 2017

An Immigrant’s Story of Safety and Opportunity

Mona Elrayah, a second-year student in the Wilder School’s Master of Public Administration program, works with 35 immigrant and refugee students at the STAR after-school program (Strengthening Teens Academically and Recreationally), run by the Tuckahoe YMCA in Henrico County. The program partners with Quioccasin Middle School.

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Governor L. Douglas Wilder
News / November 28, 2017

Governor Wilder to Speak at Wilder School Graduation

L. Douglas Wilder, 66th governor of Virginia and distinguished professor at the school that bears his name, will deliver the Wilder School’s graduation address on Saturday, December 9.

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Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., and Meghan Gough, Ph.D., associate professors at the VCU Wilder School have been selected to participate in the 2018 Summer Faculty Research Program.
News / December 7, 2017

National Program Offers Pathways for Wilder Faculty

Wilder School faculty members Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., and Meghan Gough, Ph.D., have been tapped to participate in the 2018 Faculty Research Program, a best-in-class boot camp designed to provide holistic support to researchers in academia.The program is helping both scholars to carve out a unique arc in their professional development while reaching new heights in research productivity.

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Image of multiple awards.
News / December 8, 2017

Two Wilder Advisors to Receive National Citation

Nicholas ‘Nick’ Garcia and Sarah ‘Brianne’ Morrison, advising administrators at the VCU Wilder School, will receive citations from the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) at the association’s mid-Atlantic conference held in Dover, Delaware March 21-23.This is the first time in recent history that two VCU advisors were nominated for a NACADA citation of merit from the same school or academic unit.

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News / November 30, 2017

City Appoints Pitt to “Richmond 300” Advisory Council

A Wilder School faculty member has been appointed to the advisory council for the city’s new master plan process, Richmond 300: A Guide for Growth.

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News / November 27, 2017

Albanese Recognized for Lifetime Contributions to Criminal Justice

Jay Albanese, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Wilder School’s Criminal Justice program, has been honored with the Distinguished Scholar Award from the International Association for the Study of Organized Crime (IASOC) for lifetime contributions to the field.

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Sheila E. Battle opened the conference, sharing her life-changing experiences with GEHLI's programs.
News / November 17, 2017

HIGHER Ground, Higher Purpose

Three hundred people attended the 11th Annual HIGHER Ground Women’s Leadership Conference hosted by the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute, a division of the Wilder School.

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Kate Howell, Ph.D., and Sarah Raskin, Ph.D., are the recipients of the Wilder School's 2017-2018 Faculty Small Grant Awards.
Faculty News / November 17, 2017

Wilder School Awards Small Grants for Community-Based Research

Kate Howell, Ph.D., and Sarah Raskin, Ph.D. have been named the recipients of the Wilder School's 2017-2018 Faculty Small Grant Awards. Both were selected for projects that examine critical issues affecting underserved populations in Richmond and the state of Virginia.

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A map of the Richmond metropolitan region shows household income in 2015.
News / November 15, 2017

CURA Releases Maps on Income Growth and Socioeconomic Data

Project is Part of an Analysis of the Region’s Residential Real Estate Markets

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The Wilder School contingent included, from left, Myles Robinson, Maribell Street, Ryan Bentley, Assistant Professor Jim Keck, Brian Pierce, Safoorah Mughal and Nicolay Petrov.
News / March 31, 2017

HSEP Students, Alumni Involved in Symposium

The Wilder School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program played an active role at the recent 2017 Virginia Emergency Management Symposium.

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View of the historic Liberty Bell at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia. The city is home to the 2017 annual meeting of the American Society of Criminology which will be held November 15-18.
News / November 14, 2017

Wilder Faculty to Showcase 10 Papers at Global Crime Conference

For the second year in a row, scholars at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs will make a significant showing at the annual meeting of the American Society of Criminology.

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Left to right: John Accordino, Robert Holsworth, L. Douglas Wilder, Rachel Bitecofer, J. Lee Vogler, Kristine Artello, and Cordel Faulk
News / November 6, 2017

Watch “The People’s Debate “ on Video

”The People’s Debate: Tackling State and National Issues with Your Questions” prompted questions and generated robust discussion about a wide range of issues on the eve of Virginia’s statewide elections.

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Tom Jacobson of the Wilder School's Center for Urban and Regional Analysis gives an overview of the Affordable Housing study at the MetroView Forum.
News / November 6, 2017

MetroView Offers Insights to Richmond Region

Planners and policymakers received an overview about MetroView at a recent forum about the Wilder School’s metro-wide information system.

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Zach Villegas, a criminal justice and homeland security and emergency preparedness double major, manages customer orders at his part-time job at the Cabell Library Starbucks Coffee.
Wilder School Spotlight / November 1, 2017

Meet Zach Villegas

For Zach Villegas, a criminal justice and homeland security and emergency preparedness double major, balancing three jobs, student leadership and 18 credits is all day's work.

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Wilder School 10 Under 10 Alumni  award recipients. From left to right: Ashley Hawkins, LeQuan Hylton, Ph.D. and Ryan Rinn.
News / October 26, 2017

Wilder Alumni Dominate VCU's 10 Under 10 Awards

Three Wilder School alumni--Ashley Hawkins, LeQuan Hylton and Ryan Rinn--are amongwere recently named among VCU's 10 under 10. The awards honor alumni who have earned their first degree—undergraduate, graduate or professional—from the university within the past decade and who have made important contributions to their community and loyally supported the university

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Evening image of Chicago skyline.
News / October 26, 2017

Wilder School Faculty and Students to Present at APPAM

Several Wilder School faculty and students will travel to Chicago to present their scholarship at the 2017 Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management Fall Research Conference Nov. 2-4. Faculty members Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., Susan Gooden, Ph.D., and doctoral student Tammi Slovinsky are scheduled to present original research at the conference. Doctoral student Dhara Amin will also attend. Amin has been awarded an APPAM Equity and Inclusion Student Fellowship.

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Susan Gooden, Ph.D., is a fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration and a professor of public administration at the Wilder School.
News / October 25, 2017

Gooden to lead Kerner journal, conference

Wilder School professor Susan Gooden, Ph.D., is the co-editor of a collection of articles that will mark the semi-centennial of the Kerner Commission Report, which is due out next fall. To celebrate the publication, Gooden is organizing a national conference in Minneapolis September 6-7. Both the journal symposium and the conference are being sponsored by the Russell Sage Foundation.

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News / October 11, 2017

“The People’s Debate: Tackling State and National Issues with Your Questions” on Nov. 2

“The People’s Debate: Tackling State and National Issues with Your Questions” will be led by L. Douglas Wilder, former Virginia governor and distinguished professor at the Wilder School, and Robert D. Holsworth, Ph.D., noted political analyst and former dean of the College of Humanities and Sciences at VCU.

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Daytime image of Washington, D.C. skyline.
News / October 5, 2017

Seven from Wilder School to Present at 2017 NASPAA Conference

Seven Wilder School faculty, students and alumni are set to present a wide-range of topics next week at the 2017 Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration (NASPAA) Conference in Washington, D.C.

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Wilder School students Hannah Cameron (right), president of the Urban and Regional Planning Student Association, and Gwendolyn Griffin, president of the Urban Studies Student Association, actively promote planning.
News / October 5, 2017

National Community Planning Month is Every Day

October may be National Community Planning Month, but the Wilder School celebrates it every day.

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Pam Spratley is a a travel coordinator and office services specialist at the VCU Wilder School,
Wilder School Spotlight / October 4, 2017

Meet Pam Spratley

No two days are ever the same for Pam Spratley, a travel coordinator and office services specialist at the VCU Wilder School. Spratley manages a travel portfolio that includes more than 100 faculty, staff and doctoral students during any given semester. Though much of that work is behind-the-scenes, it's a critical role that Spratley enjoys.

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The VCU Silent Witness Exhibit, open October 6-12, is designed to raise awareness of the issue of domestic violence and encourage action to create change.
News / September 28, 2017

Student-run Exhibit Sheds Light on Domestic Violence

Student volunteers from two classes led by Wilder School assistant professor Amy Cook,Ph.D., will stage an exhibit to bring awareness to the issue of domestic violence at the James Branch Cabell Library Oct. 12-16. "Silent Witness" will feature life-size wooden silhouettes of Virginians killed by an intimate partner.

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2017 International Young Scholars Workshop participants: Sombo Chunda, Brittany Keegan and Suparna Dutta.
News / May 11, 2017

Three Wilder Students Selected for Competitive Policy Workshop

Three Wilder School students--Sombo Chunda, Suparna Dutta and Brittany Keegan--have been selected to participate in the competitive International Young Scholars Workshop in Chennai, India this summer.

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News / September 28, 2017

Graduate Information Session on October 20

The Wilder School will host an information session about our graduate programs on Friday, Oct. 20, in the VCU Student Commons.

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Free Egunfemi, director of Untold RVA, leads Wilder School students in a candle lighting ceremony to honor the lives of the enslaved at Richmond's African Ancestral Burial Grounds on Sept. 7. The students are members of HSEP: 391: Human Trafficking, a course led by assistant professor Maureen Moslow-Benway.
News / September 26, 2017

Slavery Then, Slavery Now: Class Connects Slave Trade to Human Trafficking

Students from Maureen Moslow-Benway’s "Human Trafficking" course toured Libby Hill, The Devil’s Half Acre and Richmond’s African Ancestral Burial Grounds earlier this month. In a evocative presentation curated by Untold RVA Director Free Egunfemi, the class examined Richmond's role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade and drew connections to contemporary human trafficking.

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Greg Wingfield
News / September 25, 2017

2017 Alumni Star: Gregory H. Wingfield

Greg Wingfield, a MURP graduate, is a senior fellow at the VCU Wilder School and a principal of G.H. Wingfield. He is a nationally recognized expert on economic development and expert services.

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News / September 19, 2017

Metro Richmond Exports Initiative Announces the Launch of New Website

The Metro Richmond Exports Initiative has launched its new website, MetroRichmondExports.com

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News / September 14, 2017

Wilder School Presents Fall Get-in-Gear Series

Looking for hands-on professional experience before graduation? Join the Wilder School for Get-in-Gear, four informative sessions featuring job and internship opportunities in the public, private and non-profit sectors this fall.

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Photo credit: Noah Kalina
News / September 18, 2017

Toni L. Griffin to Deliver Gulak Lecture on Oct. 25

Toni L. Griffin, founder of Urban Planning and Design for the American City, will deliver this year’s Morton B. Gulak Lecture in Urban and Regional Planning on Wednesday, October 25, at 7 p.m. in the University Student Commons. The event is free and open to the public.

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News / August 23, 2017

Wilder School Reports Shows Demand for Space by Local Entrepreneurs in Hopewell

A strong demand exists among local entrepreneurs to use a city-owned building in downtown Hopewell as a kitchen incubator, makerspace or co-working space, according to a report by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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Virginia Capitol Semester Alumna Julia Carney looks over legislative email between meetings. Next to her is Deborah L. Sherman, legislative aide to Del. Vivian E. Watts.
News / September 14, 2017

Virginia Capitol Semester Seeking 2018 Interns

Applications are now open for the state's flagship legislative internship program, Virginia Capitol Semester. Deadline is Oct. 2.

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From left to right: Ava Wagner, Nate Manning, Jada Smith, Jesse Harris, Governor L. Douglas Wilder, Dean John Accordino, Ph.D., Lara McLellan, Libba Goggans McKinsey, Rebecca Doody and J'Niyah Knox-Wilson.
News / September 12, 2017

2017 Class of Wilder Fellows Announced

The Wilder School has announced its 2017 Class of Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows. This year, eight students will join five host agencies and embark on a journey to apply their talents to issues and organizations that advance the public good.

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Four new hires have joined the Wilder School for the 2017-18 academic year. From left to right: Ashlee Barnes, Ph.D., Denia Lee-Hing, Ed.D., Sarah Raskin, Ph.D., and Christopher Whyte, Ph.D.
News / August 30, 2017

Wilder School Celebrates Fresh Faces, Promotions

Four new hires have joined the Wilder School for the 2017-18 academic year and a few others were recently promoted. The new appointments will strengthen the school in a number of its specialty areas, including criminal justice, community engagement and homeland security.

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News / August 28, 2017

VCU Poll: Half of Virginians Support Campus Anti-Discrimination Policies Over Unlimited Free Speech

Half of Virginians (50 percent) think colleges and universities should place more emphasis on protecting everyone on campus from discrimination even if doing so means there are negative consequences for voicing one’s opinions, according to a poll released today.

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Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a member of India’s Parliament, former undersecretary general of the United Nations and an award-winning author.
News / August 28, 2017

2017 India Lecture in Democracy and Civil Society is Oct. 9

Dr. Shashi Tharoor, a member of India’s Parliament, former undersecretary general of the United Nations and an award-winning author, will deliver the Wilder School’s 2017 India Lecture in Democracy and Civil Society on Monday, October 9.

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Anna Clemens and Keith Parker outside MARTA's headquarters in downtown Atlanta.
News / August 25, 2017

MARTA Internship Provides “One-of-a-Kind Experiences”

Clemens, a first-year student in the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, recently completed a one-of-a-kind internship as the personal intern to the CEO of the nation’s ninth-largest transportation system.

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News / August 21, 2017

VCU Poll: 80 Percent of Virginians Support Financial Incentives to Spur Economic Development

A strong majority of Virginians— 80 percent—support the use of tax credits or other financial incentives by the state as an economic development strategy, according to the latest poll released by the Wilder School. But for many, the details of such policies make a big difference in their support.

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The Peppas led new students on a spirit walk down Broad Street.
News / August 21, 2017

Six Events You Shouldn’t Miss During Welcome Week

Whether you're a freshman or a graduate student returning to campus, Welcome Week—a series of events hosted throughout the university August 19-27—will help you get the most out of campus and prepare you for a successful year at VCU. Find out the top six events every incoming VCU student should attend.

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VCU Wilder School 2017 Summer Public Policy Poll
News / August 15, 2017

Va. Poll: Majority Say Localities Should Use Taxpayer Resources to Enforce Federal Immigration Laws

A slim majority of Virginians — 55 percent — say local governments should be required to use their resources to enforce federal immigration laws, according to a poll released today.

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News / August 11, 2017

Gough Chosen as 2017-2018 Provost Office Faculty Fellow

Meghan Gough, Ph.D., chair of the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Studies and Planning program, has been selected to receive a 2017-2018 Provost Office Faculty Fellowship for Community Engagement.

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Nakeina Douglas-Glenn,Ph.D., is sworn in by Gov. Terry McAuliffe during the inaugural meeting of the Task Force on Millennial Civic Engagement at the Patrick Henry Building on July 28.
News / August 11, 2017

Douglas-Glenn Appointed to Millennial Task Force

Nakeina Douglas-Glenn, Ph.D., director of the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute at the Wilder School, has been appointed to Gov. Terry McAuliffe's Task Force on Millennial Civic Engagement.

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News / August 8, 2017

Northam, Other Virginia Democrats Hold leads in all Three Upcoming Statewide Elections

Democrat Ralph Northam holds a five-point lead over Republican Ed Gillespie among likely voters — 42 percent to 37 percent — in the race to become the next governor of Virginia, according to a poll released today by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University.

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News / August 7, 2017

Wilder School’s M.P.A. Diversity Plan Cited

The Wilder School's Master of Public Administration program has been recognized by NASPAA, the global accreditor of master’s degree programs in public affairs for efforts to attract and retain a diverse student body.

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News / July 31, 2017

Wilder School Among First Recipients of University’s Curriculum Awards

The Wilder School has been awarded $10,000 for the creation of courses that advance students understanding of issues related to diversity and inclusion. The school is among the first recipients of grant funding under the university’s Curriculum Development Awards—an initiative of the Division of Inclusive Excellence.

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Robyn McDougle
News / July 24, 2017

McDougle Reappointed to State Board

Robyn McDougle, associate professor of Criminal Justice and director of the Wilder School’s Office of Public Policy Outreach, was recently reappointed to a second four-year term on the Virginia Board on Juvenile Justice by Gov. Terry McAuliffe.

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Wendy Fewster, a 2016 graduate of the Wilder School's Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, is executive director of Richmond Region Energy Alliance. The image on her laptop shows the difference an attic hatch cover can make on energy efficiency.
News / July 24, 2017

Wilder School Spotlight: Meet Wendy Fewster

Wendy Fewster, a 2016 graduate of the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, is energized about her job as the executive director of Richmond Region Energy Alliance.

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News / July 19, 2017

Wilder School Adjunct Nominated for DOD Post

Guy B. Roberts, an adjunct faculty member of the Wilder School who teaches in the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program, will be nominated as an assistant secretary of defense for nuclear, chemical and biological defense programs in the Department of Defense.

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News / June 19, 2017

Wilder School, VCU School of Medicine Receive PeRQ Fund Award

In a first collaboration of its type between the two schools, the Wilder School’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis and the VCU School of Medicine have received a Presidential Research Quest Fund award.

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News / July 13, 2017

Wilder School, HOME Sponsoring Housing Equality Conference Sept. 22

The Wilder School and Housing Opportunities Made Equal of Virginia will sponsor a daylong conference on Friday, September 22, that will bring together planners, government officials, nonprofit advocates and other housing officials to hear from local and national experts about affirmatively promoting equitable access to opportunity in our communities.

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This map shows the pattern of how retail and service jobs are heavily located in the suburban areas of Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico counties (shown in blue) while affordable housing (in brown and tan) is concentrated in the Southside and east end of the city, close-in suburban neighborhoods, and rural and small town areas on the fringe of the Richmond metro area.
News / July 13, 2017

Wilder School Study Finds Affordable Housing Not Located Near Available Jobs in the Richmond Region

A new report issued by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University finds that affordable housing isn’t located near available jobs in the Richmond Metropolitan Statistical Area.

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Eric Barton
News / June 29, 2017

Fellowship Provides First-Hand Experience for Wilder Student

Eric Barton (H&S ‘13), a second-year public administration student, has been selected to participate in an intense eight-week internship within the state’s executive branch.

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A visit to the James River Park Pipeline Walkway was among the stops made by students and professors from the University of Kaiserslautern in Germany during their stay in Richmond.
News / June 21, 2017

Wilder School Hosts German Planning Students

For the fourth year, students from the University of Kaiserslautern in Germany recently spent a week with their counterparts at the Wilder School learning about the American planning system.

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John Mahoney,Ph.D., at the Spring 2016 Wilder School Graduation Ceremony on May 16.
News / June 21, 2017

The Wilder School Bids Farewell to John Mahoney

On June 30, John Mahoney, Ph.D., a longtime administrator, associate professor and assistant dean for undergraduate academic affairs at the Wilder School will retire. His departure will conclude a career spanning more than three decades—including 34 years in higher education and 29 years as an intelligence officer in the U.S. Naval Reserves.

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Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., is the inaugural recipient of the Kathleen S. Lowney Mentoring Award.
News / June 13, 2017

Brubaker Receives Inaugural Mentorship Award

Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., an associate professor and chair of the Wilder School’s Public Policy and Administration program, has received the first-ever Kathleen S. Lowney Mentoring Award.

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Blythe Bowman Balestrieri, Ph.D., poses in the Law Library at the Richmond City Justice Center.
News / June 2, 2017

Balestrieri Recognized for Work in Richmond City's Jail Library

Blythe Bowman Balestrieri, associate professor of criminal justice at the Wilder School, was recently featured for her work as a law librarian at the Richmond City Justice Center.

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News / May 26, 2017

Wilder School Study Links City Hall Performance to Key Departments

A new Wilder School study commissioned by Mayor Levar Stoney finds a retool of key departments is needed to improve the performance quality of Richmond’s City Hall.

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The Spring 2017 Class of VEI
News / May 23, 2017

Virginia Executive Institute: Building Leaders

The Wilder School's Virginia Executive Institute is the premier leadership development program for leaders in Virginia government from all branches and regions—executive, judicial and legislative, as well as universities, independent state agencies and local government from across the commonwealth.

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Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows Ibrahim Keita, Lashelle Johnson and Joseph Costello.
News / May 18, 2017

Wilder Fellows Take on State Challenges

Inside meetings with career policy analysts, administrators and statisticians, Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows tackle issues confronting some of the commonwealth’s largest and most impactful agencies.

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Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., professor of public administration and policy, will attend a by-invitation-only conference next month that's cosponsored by the UN and the government of the Netherlands.
News / May 17, 2017

Gooden Invited to International Conference

Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., professor of public administration and policy, has been invited to attend an international conference in the Netherlands cosponsored by the United Nations that celebrates public servants’ contributions to sustainable development.

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News / May 5, 2017

Gough Leads Recent Partnership Grant

Meghan Gough, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Planning and Studies program, is the primary investigator on a grant received from the VCU Council for Community Engagement to support the development of a new university-community partnership that will investigate, “Asset-Based Community Development: A Model for Community Strengthening.”

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John Accordino, Ph.D., FAICP
News / May 2, 2017

Dean to Deliver Wilder School’s Graduation Address

Dean John Accordino,Ph.D., FAICP, will deliver the Wilder School’s graduation address on Saturday, May 13.

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News / April 25, 2017

Wilder School Study Shows that Heritage Tourists Spend $7.7 Billion A Year

Heritage tourism is an important driver of Virginia’s economy, generating almost $7.7 billion a year, according to a study by the Wilder School commissioned by Preservation Virginia.

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Christina Mancini, Ph.D.
Wilder School Spotlight / April 25, 2017

Meet Christina Mancini

Christina Mancini, Ph.D., is an expert on sexual violence, campus rape, sexual assault policy and the role of public opinion in shaping public safety.

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Governor L. Douglas Wilder, Wilder  School Dean John Accordino, Associate Dean Jill Gordon and Director of Student Success Shajuana Isom-Payne stand with (top) students who received recognition through their academic programs and (bottom) students who received scholarships.
News / April 21, 2017

Wilder School Honors Outstanding Students

The Wilder School recognized outstanding students for their academic, leadership and public service achievements at an awards program at the VCU Student Commons on Thurs., April 20.

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News / April 14, 2017

Suen Coauthors Economic Impact Study of the James River Park System

A study conducted by a Wilder School associate professor and a VCU psychology associate professor on behalf of the Friends of the James River Park has found that the James River Park System has a positive impact on the city of Richmond, with every dollar in the park’s budget generating more than $60 in visitor spending.

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First: (from left) Robyn McDougle, Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Brian Moran, Wilder School Dean John Accordino, Greg Wingfield and David Hudgins of Old Dominion Electric Cooperative.
Second: Virginia FREE Executive Director Chris Saxman gives opening remarks.
Third: Wilder School Dean John Accordino and Robyn McDougle greet Del. Kenneth Plum of Reston.
News / April 6, 2017

Wilder School Presents Insights on the Virginia Economy

Virginia lawmakers and business leaders met at the state Capitol to hear from Wilder School economic policy experts, industry representatives and top public officials to examine key issues facing the commonwealth’s changing economy.

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Wilder School Dean John Accordino, Ph.D. with (from left), Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., Criminal Justice, Excellence in Scholarship; Shajuana Isom-Payne, director of student success, Professionalism Award; Susan Gooden, Ph.D., Public Administration, Excellence in Mentoring; and Maureen Moslow-Benway, HSEP. Not pictured, Mark Christie, Public Policy and Administration, Distinguished Adjunct award.
News / April 5, 2017

2017 Faculty Recognition Awards

Five Wilder School faculty have been honored for their outstanding work and commitment to students.

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News / April 4, 2017

Plan-Off to be Held April 21

The sixth annual Plan-Off will take place on Friday, April 21, with students in the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program presenting their ideas for a better community.

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Pavneet Kaur, a second-year student in the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, will intern this summer at Esri.
News / March 30, 2017

M.U.R.P. Student Lands Prestigious Internship

Pavneet Kaur, a second-year student in the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, is the recipient of a competitive summer internship at a leading international producer of mapping and spatial analytic software.

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Grant Rissler receives his award from Peter Wallenstein, professor of history at Virginia Tech.
News / March 28, 2017

Rissler Receives Award for Paper

The Virginia Social Science Association has honored Grant Rissler, a doctoral candidate in Public Policy and Administration program at the Wilder School

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The panel consisted of, from left, Alexandra Reckendorf; Meghan Gough; Jack Trammell; Governor L. Douglas Wilder; Dean John Accordino; and Robert Holsworth.
News / March 24, 2017

Watch the Town Hall Video Online

The Wilder School’s Town Hall—"Popular Politics, Populism and Donald Trump: Who Are ‘We the People’?"—drew a full crowd to Grace Street Theater on March 22 and generated two hours of robust, insightful discussion between the panelists and audience.

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Wilder School Dean John Accordino with Stephen Guyton Jr. (left) and Sombo Chunda.
News / March 23, 2017

Board of Visitors Meets Outstanding Wilder School Students

Two outstanding Wilder School students were introduced to the VCU Board of Visitors at a special reception this week.

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The Wilder School boasted a delegation of more than 20 faculty,students and alumni at the 2017 American Society for Public Administration Conference (ASPA) in Atlanta, Ga. March 16-21.
News / March 23, 2017

Faculty, Students Well Represented at National Conference

The Wilder School boasted an impressive contingent at the 2017 American Society for Public Administration Conference (ASPA), with Professor Susan Gooden, Ph.D. presiding as the association's 75th president and 16 faculty, student and alumni presentations.

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ASPA President and Professor of Public Administration Susan Gooden, Ph.D.
News / March 13, 2017

Wilder School Takes Center Stage at ASPA Conference

Nearly 1,300 scholars and practitioners from across the nation will gather in Atlanta for the 2017 American Society of Public Administration Conference this week, and the Wilder School will have a towering presence at the country’s preeminent conference for public management.

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Susan Gooden
News / March 7, 2017

Gooden Receives Research Award

Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., professor of public administration and policy at the Wilder School, has received a $50,000 presidential research award from the Russell Sage Foundation

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Wilder School students and VCU women’s basketball players Isis Thorpe (left) and Ashley Pegram volunteered in state Sen. Ryan McDougle's office during the recent General Assembly session.
News / March 3, 2017

Wilder School Students Learn Legislative Lessons

During the recent General Assembly, Wilder School students and VCU women’s basketball players Ashley Pegram and Isis Thorpe learned first-hand the similarities between hoops and politics.

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John Accordio, Ph.D., Wilder School dean and director of the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA)
News / February 28, 2017

John Accordino Named Dean of the Wilder School

After a rigorous national search, Virginia Commonwealth University has named John Accordino, Ph.D., as dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, effective March 1.

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News / February 22, 2017

Wilder School to Host Town Hall on March 22, "Popular Politics, Populism and Donald Trump: Who Are ‘We the People’?"

Join the Wilder School at a town hall on Wednesday, March 22, at the Grace Street Theater, 934 W. Grace St., from 7–9 p.m. The town hall--Popular Politics, Populism and Donald Trump: Who Are ‘We the People’?-- will offer a community conversation about today’s political climate, leadership, the nation’s changing electorate and how citizens can get involved.

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News / February 16, 2017

City Partnering with Wilder School for Performance Review

The Wilder School will be assisting with the comprehensive performance review of all agencies in Richmond City Hall, which Mayor Levar M. Stoney has cited as his top priority among the initiatives of his first 100 days.

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News / February 16, 2017

Wilder School Students Receive Black History in the Making Award

Five Wilder School students were among those who received the annual Black History in the Making award at a ceremony on Wed., Feb. 15, hosted on by the Department of African American Studies.

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Maureen Moslow-Benway at Waterton National Park in Alberta,Canada. Second: President Ronald Reagan and Moslow-Benway in graduation ceremony for the 1984 class of the United States Air Force Academy. Third: The Benway family: (left to right) Connor, Robert, Maureen and Mikaela. Fourth: The Benway family during a surf break: (left to right) Mikaela, Connor, Maureen and Robert.
Wilder School Spotlight / February 15, 2017

Meet Maureen Moslow-Benway

Maureen Moslow-Benway joined the Wilder School faculty in 2007, following a storied 20-year intelligence career that included roles as as a special agent in the United States Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) and as a national security consultant and manager for Booz Allen Hamilton. In her spare time, she's an extreme athlete with a record of more than 100 competitive races.

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News / February 13, 2017

Criminal Justice Lecture to Present Terrance Hake of “Operation Greylord” on Feb. 28

The Wilder School’s Criminal Justice program will present, “Putting Corruption Out of Business: An Insider’s View of Operation Greylord,” featuring Terrance Hake on Tues., Feb. 28, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the VCU Student Commons, Richmond Salons III-IV.

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Eta Lambda Sigma First Responders Banquet
News / February 6, 2017

Eta Lambda Sigma Offers Students Tips, Trips and Tours

The Wilder School’s chapter of Eta Lambda Sigma, the nation’s first professional homeland security and emergency management fraternity, has had a busy winter.

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News / January 30, 2017

VCU terrorism expert: Trump’s travel ban hands ISIL a powerful recruiting tool

William Pelfrey, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of homeland security and emergency preparedness comments on President Trump's executive order on Friday.

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Photo credit: Tom Woodward
News / January 26, 2017

2016-17 Commonwealth Education Poll: Higher Ed

In the latest Commonwealth Education Poll, a majority of respondents say Virginia colleges and universities are doing a good job providing students with skills to succeed in the workplace and beyond.

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News / January 24, 2017

2016-17 Commonwealth Education Poll: K-12

As the General Assembly makes critical decisions about education policy in the state, a recent poll by the Commonwealth Educational Policy Institute shows that Virginians from all geographic regions overwhelmingly support the redesign of Virginia’s high schools.

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News / January 17, 2017

2017 Public Policy Poll: Public Safety, Substance Use and Mental Health

The recent 2017 Public Policy Poll: Public Safety, Substance Use and Mental Health—conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University—found strong support for providing treatment to opioid users.

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News / January 12, 2017

2017 Public Policy Poll: Economic Development and Workforce Training

The 2017 Public Policy Poll: Economic Development and Workforce Training—conducted by the Center for Public Policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University—found strong support for continued funding for workforce training and development.

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News / January 10, 2017

New report details VCU’s economic and cultural impact

Virginia Commonwealth University generates nearly $6 billion in economic activity and supports 63,000 jobs in Virginia, according to a new report by the Wilder School’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis that examines VCU’s economic and cultural impact.

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News / December 16, 2016

Wilder Student, Alum Chosen as ASPA Founders' Fellows

Yali Pang, a doctoral candidate at the Wilder School, and Javon Davis, who graduated in May with a Master of Public Administration, are among 25 students and new professionals nationally who have been selected as 2017 Founders’ Fellows by the American Society for Public Administration.

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(Top) Sombo Chunda.
(Middle) Zambian Minister of Higher Education, Nkandu Luo and Wilder School Professor and President of the American Society of Public Administration, Susan Gooden, Ph.D.(center) present Chunda with the Young Public Service Leader Award on Dec. 5.

(Bottom) Chunda with husband Emmanuel and daughters, Waluse and Wana.
News / December 15, 2016

Wilder Student Receives Top Zambia Prize

Sombo Chunda, a first-year master’s student and champion for financial management and private sector accountability, has been awarded Zambia’s highest prize for civil service. Chunda received the award for an innovative collaboration between the mining sector, the Zambian government and 16 civil society organizations operating within the nation’s Copperbelt.

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News / December 13, 2016

Brubaker, Cleary Receive Grant

Two Wilder School Criminal Justice faculty members have received a grant from the Annie E. Casey Foundation to examine perceptions of safety and levels of engagement among staff and residents in state juvenile correctional centers under a new community treatment model.

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Felix Sarfo-Kantanka Jr.
News / December 6, 2016

Wilder School Alumnus to Address Graduation

Felix Sarfo-Kantanka Jr., Virginia’s deputy secretary of administration who earned his master’s in public administration in 2001 from the Wilder School, will deliver the graduation address on Saturday.

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News / February 15, 2017

Graduate Information Session on March 10

The Wilder School will host an information session about our graduate programs on Friday, March 10, in the VCU Student Commons.

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News / November 11, 2016

GEHLI to host minority impact analysis talks

On November 18, members of the 2016 Class of the Minority Political Leadership Institute (MPLI) will offer a series of presentations on legislation affecting minority communities in Virginia.

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Grant Rissler
Wilder School Spotlight / November 11, 2016

Meet Grant Rissler

With more than 17 years of service working with and on behalf of vulnerable communities, Grant Rissler, a doctoral candidate in public policy and administration at the Wilder School, is giving back through a life of consequence.

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News / November 3, 2016

Faculty, doctoral students receive NECoPA best paper award

Youth development programs provide a support system on which underserved adolescents can rely on and facilitate successful transition to adulthood, but what works? An award-winning study authored by four researchers at the Wilder School offers one strategy.

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News / November 2, 2016

Wilder School Announces 2016 EVGA Honorees

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University will honor individuals and organizations who have made noteworthy contributions to the practice of government and the betterment of the state on Wed., Nov. 30.

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News / October 11, 2016

2016 Metro Poll Looks at Race Relations and Police in Richmond Area

The Wilder School's Center for Public Policy has released the results of a poll conducted in the spring that found that a majority of Richmond-area residents saw race relations in the U.S. as a major problem and that race relations have grown worse over the past five years.

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The VCU Silent Witness Exhibit, open October 10-14, is a joint initiative to raise awareness of the issue of domestic violence and encourage action to create change.
News / October 7, 2016

Domestic Violence Exhibit Visits VCU Oct. 10-14

To help educate students and community members about the scourge of domestic violence—a crime that accounted for at least a third of domestic female homicides in 2014—Amy Cook,Ph.D., an assistant professor at the VCU Wilder School is organizing an exhibit to make it real.

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Lucky Turner poses with fellow 2016 LGBT Burnside Watstein Award recipients. From left: Lucky Turner, Brenda Kriegel, Walter Foery, Frances Stewart, Attalah Shabazz, Sharon Talarico and Jane Firer. Turner was the only student to receive the award this year.
News / October 5, 2016

Student Honored with VCU’s 2016 LGBT Burnside Watstein Award

Tolliver 'Lucky' Turner, a senior majoring in criminal justice, was recently honored with the 2016 Burnside Watstein Award for his contributions to VCU’s LGBTQIA community.

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Members of the Class of 2016 VCU Leadership Development Program gather for a team-building exercise.
News / October 4, 2016

Faculty and staff to offer campus solutions

Join us on Thursday, Oct. 6 as GEHLI presents the VCU Leadership Development Class of 2016. Experience five thought-provoking presentations and countless engaging ideas - all in one day!

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News / September 28, 2016

Wilder Symposium to be held Monday, October 17

This fall’s Wilder Symposium on Race and American Society will examine the legacies of the landmark Kerner Commission report to then-President Lyndon B. Johnson following the riots in 1967, and what they mean for race and ethnic relations in the United States today in an open, frank and full discussion.

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Wilder Graduate Scholars’ Fellows gather with Governor L. Douglas Wilder (seated, left) and Interim Dean, John Accordino, Ph.D., (seated,right) at Office of the Provost on Sept. 8. Fellows (standing, from left to right): Lara Mclellan, Ibrahim Keita, Joseph Costello, Lashelle Johnson, Alexandra Stewart, Nathan Manning and Theresa Varnier.
News / September 21, 2016

Wilder School Announces 11th Class of Wilder Graduate Scholars’ Fellowship

The Wilder School is pleased to announce the selection of seven Wilder Graduate Scholars' Fellows for the 2016-17 academic year.

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Paula Gulak, center, with daughter, Misha, and son, Loren. (Bottom) Morton B. Gulak, Ph.D.
Wilder School Spotlight / September 21, 2016

Meet Paula Gulak

Paula Gulak and her family honor her late husband, Morton B. Gulak, Ph.D., through a lecture series that continues the legacy of the longtime professor who helped found the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program.

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James Smither, instructor of Urban and Regional Studies/Planning
Faculty News / July 27, 2016

Smither Receives Outstanding Teaching Award

James Smither, an instructor in the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Studies/Planning program, is honored by the Virginia chapter of the American Planning Association.

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News / September 20, 2016

Career Services to Offer Personal Branding Event

Join the Office of Career Services on Fri., Sept. 30, for “Building Your Brand,” a unique program designed for Wilder students.

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News / September 20, 2016

Wilder School Presents Get in Gear Employer Series

Gain hands-on experience from an internationally recognized police department. Join the VCU Police Department on Sept. 27, for the first installment of Get in Gear, a series of sessions designed to foster relationships between Wilder students and prospective employers.

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Library Exhibits Wilder School Planning Posters
News / September 16, 2016

Library Exhibits Wilder School Planning Posters

October is National Community Planning Month, and the Wilder School is pleased to share work by students in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) program in a special exhibit on the first floor of Cabell Library.

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Academy recruit Taylor Lisco demonstrates how to correctly apply pressure to a wrist on a fellow recruit in order to takedown an offender during a defensive tactics course on July 13 at the Henrico County Training Center.
News / August 4, 2016

Training for a Purpose: Student Basic Jailor Academy

Unique university-community collaboration allows Wilder School students to earn college credit and work part-time as certified correctional deputies in Henrico County jails.

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Former Virginia Capital Semester student Julia Carney with Del. Vivian E. Watts.
News / September 15, 2016

OSS to host two info sessions for legislative internship

The Office of Student Success will host two information sessions for the Virginia Capital Semester program Sept. 22-23. Join us!

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Chernoh Wurie, Ph.D.
Wilder School Spotlight / August 25, 2016

Meet Chernoh Wurie

Chernoh Wurie, Ph.D., was 16 when rebel bandits entered his home in Sierra Leone and held his family at gunpoint. That incident fueled a career in policing that would eventually lead to the classroom.

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(Top) VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., discusses the report. (Middle) John Accordino, Ph.D., (right) greets Todd Haymore, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade. (Bottom) Barry Matherly, Todd Haymore, Renee Chapline, Michael Rao, Ph.D, Nick Klym, John Accordino, Ph.D., and Greg Wingfield at the event.
News / September 9, 2016

Wilder School's CURA Leads Exports Effort

After nearly two years of work, the long-awaited Metro Richmond Exports Initiative has been released.

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Sara Zewde is a designer at Gustafson Guthrie Nichol.
News / September 7, 2016

Sara Zewde to Deliver Gulak Lecture on Oct. 26

Sara Zewde, a leading expert in landscape architecture and design, will deliver this year’s Morton B. Gulak Lecture in Urban and Regional Planning on Wed., Oct. 26, at 7 p.m. in the University Student Commons.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / August 25, 2016

Wilder School’s M.P.A. Program Receives Award

The Wilder School’s Master of Public Administration program will receive the Social Equity Award from the Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs and Administration at its annual conference in October.

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Wilder School students helped create plans for revitalizing the waterfront in Messina, Italy.
News / August 24, 2016

From Richmond to Italy: Planning Across Cultures

Wilder School students took their studies about urban revitalization from the James River region to the Straits of Messina during a study-abroad program this summer.

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Students stroll along the VCU Compass.
News / August 19, 2016

Wilder School to Host Welcome Week Events

The Wilder School will host two events for current and incoming students on Wednesday, Aug. 24.

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Skyline view of the City of Richmond.
News / August 15, 2016

Metro Richmond Export Initiative to be Unveiled Sept. 8

The Metropolitan Richmond Export Initiative will be unveiled on Thurs., Sept. 8, in Chesterfield County.

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Christina Mancini, Ph.D., associate professor, criminal justice graduate coordinator
News / August 3, 2016

Mancini to Moderate Webinar on Title IX and Campus Sexual Assault

Christina Mancini, Ph.D., associate professor of Criminal Justice, will moderate a free webinar that will analyze the problem of sexual assault on college and university campuses on Thurs., Aug. 25, at 2 p.m.

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Michael Perkins
News / July 28, 2016

Perkins Recognized at International Workshop

Michael Perkins, a Wilder School doctoral candidate in public policy and administration, received an honorable mention for Best Presentation Award at the Fifth Annual International Young Scholars Workshop in Cape Town, South Africa.

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Wilder School alumna Dietra Trent, Ph.D.
News / July 28, 2016

Trent Named Virginia Secretary of Education

Wilder School alumna Dietra Trent (M.P.A. ’95/Ph.D. ’07) has been appointed Virginia’s newest Secretary of Education.

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Keith Ready
News / July 28, 2016

Wilder School Mourns Keith Ready

Keith Ready, Ph.D, dedicated almost four decades of his life to teaching and mentoring students.

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Anthony Romanello
News / July 11, 2016

Alumnus to Assume New Administrative Post in Henrico

Anthony Romanello (M.P.A.’93) has been named deputy county manager for administration Henrico County.

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Jay Albanese, Ph.D. and Susan Gooden, Ph.D.
Faculty News / July 11, 2016

Albanese, Gooden to Receive University’s Top Honor

Two Wilder School professors—Jay Albanese, Ph.D., and Susan Gooden, Ph.D.,—have been selected as recipients of the 2016 Distinguished Faculty Awards, the campus’ most prestigious honor for teaching faculty.

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Danielle Shutt celebrates with a smile following the completion of the Tough Mudder Obstacle Course on June 11.
Wilder School Spotlight / July 8, 2016

Meet Danielle Shutt

When Danielle Shutt, a Lynchburg-born poet, artist and competitive runner, is not preparing for her next marathon or crafting her first manuscript, she is hard at work at Virginia Commonwealth University—where she spends her days as a fiscal officer for the Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy (CPP).

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Christina Mancini, Ph.D., associate professor, criminal justice graduate coordinator
Faculty News / July 7, 2016

Mancini Offers Title IX Expertise

Christina Mancini, Ph.D., in a recent article discussed a $2.48 million payout to end a sexual assault lawsuit against the University of Tennessee

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Blue Wooldridge, DPA, professor
Faculty News / June 30, 2016

Blue Wooldridge Presents on Development in Africa

Blue Wooldridge, DPA, professor of public administration, spoke at the Consortium of International Management Policy and Development annual meeting and conference.

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John Accordio, Ph.D., Wilder School dean and director of the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA)
News / July 7, 2016

John Accordino to Become Interim Dean

John Accordino, Ph.D., FAICP, director of the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA), will become the interim dean of the Wilder School effective Friday, July 1.

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Greg Wingfield, Senior Fellow, Center for Urban and Regional Analysis
Faculty News / June 28, 2016

RTD Honors Greg Wingfield

Greg Wingfield, senior fellow at the Center for Regional and Urban Analysis, is recognized for his contributions to Richmond.

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Wilder School students Brandon Hatcher and Cainan Townsend, participants in the 2016 Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program, gather on the steps of the Virginia Capitol on June 16.
News / June 27, 2016

Hatcher, Townsend Receive Prestigious Governor’s Fellowship

Wilder School students Brandon Hatcher and Cainan Townsend have been tapped for the Virginia Governor’s Fellows Program, a prestigious internship that pairs students with top state officials.

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Mo Alie-Cox signs his #12 on a shirt.
News / June 23, 2016

Hoops for Hope: Mo Alie-Cox and Torey Burston Bring Inspiration to Inmates and Their Sons

Wilder School students Mo Alie-Cox and Torey Burston shared their basketball skills and a message of hope with fathers and sons at the Richmond jail.

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Niraj Verma, Ph.D., Wilder School dean and Washington Mandela fellow Patience Coleman from Liberia.
News / June 21, 2016

Wilder School Cohosts Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders

For the second consecutive year, the Wilder School is cohosting the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders.

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Headshot of Hayley, Cleary Ph.D.
Faculty News / June 16, 2016

Cleary Receives PerQ Award

Hayley Cleary, Ph.D., assistant professor of Criminal Justice, has received a grant from the VCU Presidential Research Quest Fund.

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Susan Gooden, Shantaram Talegaonkar, Keith Parker
News / June 14, 2016

Gooden Among Gubernatorial Appointments

Susan Gooden, Ph.D., is among recent gubernatorial appointments with ties to the Wilder School.

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Headshot of Shajuana Isom-Payne.
Faculty News / June 2, 2016

Shajuana Isom-Payne Coauthors Book Chapter, Makes Presentation

Shajuana Isom-Payne, director of student success, has coauthored a chapter, “Constructivist approaches to counseling children,” with D.M. Gibson that appears in the book, “Counseling children and adolescents: Connecting theory, development and diversity.”

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Christina Mancini, Ph.D., associate professor, criminal justice graduate coordinator
Faculty News / June 1, 2016

Christina Mancini Coauthors Article, Quoted

Christina Mancini, Ph.D., associate professor of Criminal Justice, recently coauthored an article, “Mandatory Reporting (MR) in Higher Education/College Students’ Perceptions of Laws Designed to Reduce Campus Sexual Assault,” in Criminal Justice Review.

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Headshot of Trisha Rhodes, Ph.D.
Faculty News / May 19, 2016

Trisha Rhodes Gives Presentation

Trisha Rhodes, Ph.D, assistant professor of Criminal Justice, gave a presentation about "Policing in Schools: Culture at a Crossroads" at the Inaugural Education Law and Policy Symposium on May 17, which was cosponsored by the Virginia Department of Education and the VCU School of Education. She discussed research on how police officers transition into school settings, and how findings from this work show promise for the success of SRO programs.

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Headshot of Blue Wooldridge, Ph.D.
Faculty News / May 17, 2016

Blue Wooldridge Participates in Two Events

Blue Wooldridge, D.P.A., professor of public administration, convened a meeting on May 13 of the Standing Panel of Social Equity, which he chairs, at the National Academy of Public Administration on the topic, "Promoting Society Equity Using Evidence-Based Practices."

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Headshot of Henry Brownstein, Ph.D.
Faculty News / May 15, 2016

Henry Brownstein Coauthors Chapter in Publication

An chapter co-authored by Henry Brownstein, Ph.D., associate dean for research and director of the Center for Public Policy, was included in a new publication that was recently released. "Drug Production in Rural Context," coauthored with Ralph A. Weisheit, appeared in The Routledge International Handbook of Rural Criminology, edited by Joseph F. Donnermeyer.

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Headshot of Amy Cook, Ph.D.
Faculty News / May 12, 2016

Amy Cook Offers Expertise on Gangs

Amy Cook, Ph.D., assistant professor of Criminal Justice, was interviewed by WTVR-TV on May 11 for a story about three alleged gang members who were arrested in Chesterfield County for allegedly recruiting children. Cook, who used to work in the juvenile justice system, said gang participation often leads to criminal behavior.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / June 20, 2016

Wilder School Launches New Website

We’ve redesigned our website, completely overhauling its look and feel. Bold, bright colors and an open design help tell our story clearly.

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Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., director of the Wilder Schools doctoral program (second from right), enjoys graduation with Katherine Hall, Jose Alcaine and LeQuan Hylton.
News / June 3, 2016

Wilder School Ph.D. Profiles

Meet the three Wilder School May graduates who received their doctoral degrees: Jose Alcaine, Katherine Hall and LeQuan Hylton.

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Luanda Fiscella
Wilder School Spotlight / May 31, 2016

Meet Luanda Fiscella

Luanda Fiscella, 30, took more than a gap year before college; she took a decade.

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Wilder School Spotlight / August 19, 2015

Meet Richard Huff

Richard Huff, Ph.D., sees public administration in action all around him.

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Wilder School Spotlight / August 28, 2015

Meet Nick Garcia

Nick Garcia is a senior academic adviser in the Undergraduate Advising Office of the VCU Wilder School.

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Robyn McDougle
Wilder School Spotlight / September 8, 2015

Meet Robyn McDougle

Robyn McDougle is the faculty director of the university’s first Office of Public Policy Outreach.

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Wilder School Spotlight / September 23, 2015

Meet Simon Okoth

Simon Okoth is the recently appointed director of graduate studies at the VCU Wilder School.

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Wilder School Spotlight / October 2, 2015

Meet Meghan Gough

Meghan Gough is an associate professor and chair of the urban and regional planning program at the VCU Wilder School.

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Wilder School Spotlight / October 12, 2015

Meet Jim Keck

Jim Keck, a veteran who was lured away from retirement by the Wilder School in 2009, has more than three decades of senior administrative experience.

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Wilder School Spotlight / November 3, 2015

Meet Greg Wingfield

Before he was a titan of economic development, Greg Wingfield (B.S., ’74, MURP, ’76) was something else—a VCU student with boundless potential.

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Photo of William Pelfrey, Jr., Ph.D.
News / May 12, 2016

Pelfrey to be a Visiting Fellow at the Max Planck Institute

William V. Pelfrey Jr., Ph.D., chair of the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program and associate professor, has been named a Visiting Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute in Germany.

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Wilder School Spotlight / November 12, 2015

Meet Jim Williams

Jim Williams, chief of the Staunton Police Department, is entering his 31st year in law enforcement.

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Wilder School Spotlight / November 19, 2015

Meet Bonnie Gail Mani, Ph.D

When Bonnie Gail Mani initially enrolled in Virginia Commonwealth University in the 1970s, she was pursuing a Master of Music degree with the intent to teach at the college level.

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Wilder School Spotlight / December 7, 2015

Meet Mo Alie-Cox

It would be impressive for any college student to earn his undergraduate degree in just three years. But for Mo Alie-Cox, graduating in three years is downright masterful.

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Wilder School Spotlight / January 12, 2016

Meet Tina Braden

If you work at the Wilder School, you know Tina Braden. The Wilder School’s personnel administrator and building manager, she handles everything from payroll to preparing a new employee to start work to overseeing the maintenance of the school’s seven buildings.

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Brian J. Moran
News / May 10, 2016

Moran to Speak at Wilder School Graduation

Brian J. Moran, Virginia’s Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security, will deliver the commencement address at the Wilder School’s graduation ceremony this Saturday.

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Shajuana Isom-Payne
Wilder School Spotlight / February 8, 2016

Meet Shajuana Isom-Payne

Shajuana Isom-Payne, director of student success at the VCU Wilder School, has a message for students: It’s a new brand world. »

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Jim Smither
Wilder School Spotlight / February 25, 2016

Meet Jim Smither

As an instructor in the Wilder School’s Urban and Regional Studies/Planning program, Jim Smither blends his skills as a fine artist, landscape architect, urban planner and urban designer to teach the broad principles of illustration and design in the study of place.

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Jill Gordon
Wilder School Spotlight / March 1, 2016

Meet Jill Gordon

In January, Jill Gordon, a twenty-year veteran of the university, became the new associate dean for faculty and academic affairs. Gordon is responsible for supporting a range of activities that support teaching including professional development, promotion and tenure processes, faculty and student awards. »

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Wilder School Interim Dean Susan Gooden, Ph.D. (center). VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D. and EVGA Committee Chair and VCU Board of Visitors member Robert Holsworth, Ph.D., with 2019 EVGA honorees. Back row, left to right: Joseph Walters; Deputy Director of Administration, VA Department of Corrections, Manuel Alvarez; Chairman, Goochland County Board of Supervisors, Gloria Turner; Chairman, Goochl
News / April 12, 2019

2019 Excellence in Virginia Government Honorees Celebrated

More than 250 of the most distinguished voices in Commonwealth governance gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of the recipients of the 2019 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards on April 11. The awards, which recognized the achievements of 10 organizations, non-profits, public-private partnerships and individuals who have made significant contributions to Commonwealth communities, was hosted by the VCU Wilder School.

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Blythe A. Bowman
Wilder School Spotlight / March 22, 2016

Blythe A. Bowman

Dr. Blythe A. Bowman’s intellectual journey brought her to the crossroads of classics and criminal justice.

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Susan ‘Su’ Williams
Wilder School Spotlight / April 13, 2016

Susan ‘Su’ Williams

If you don’t know Su Williams, then you haven’t met the maestro. For nearly a decade, Williams has served as the senior fiscal manager at the Wilder School where her work touches nearly every aspect of the school’s academic ensemble.

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Sun Melissa Jun
Wilder School Spotlight / May 23, 2016

Meet Sun Melissa Jun

Sun Melissa Jun lives by the words she spoke at the Wilder School’s spring graduation: “Passion and enthusiasm really can bring a person far in life.”

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Four Wilder School Faculty Members Receive Promotions
News / May 26, 2016

Four Wilder School Faculty Members Receive Promotions

The Board of Visitors has approved the promotion or tenure for four Wilder School faculty members:

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Image of U.S. News & World Report Emblem
News / March 12, 2019

Wilder School Soars to No. 39 in Latest U.S. News & World Report

The Wilder School ranks among the top 40 of the nation's best graduate public affairs programs—moving up five places to No. 39 in the most recent U.S. News & World Report rankings.

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Alex Kuttesch
News / May 9, 2016

MURP Student Receives NOAA Fellowship

Alex Kuttesch, a graduating student in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, has been named a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Coastal Management Fellow.

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Laura Howell accepts congratulations from Meghan Gough, Ph.D., chair of the Urban and Regional Studies/Planning program, in front of her project poster.
News / April 29, 2016

MURP Students Offer Real Solutions to Real Challenges

Laura Howell, a student in the Master of Urban and Regional Planning program, won this year’s Plan-Off! competition for her proposal about promoting heritage tourism in Henrico County.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
Faculty News / April 15, 2016

Susan Gooden Selected to Serve on Panel

Susan Gooden, Ph.D., professor of public administration and policy, has been selected to serve on a National Academy of Public Administration panel for the academy’s study for the Indian Health Service to develop a strategic plan for the Urban Indian Health Program.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / April 23, 2015

Cybersecurity symposium

The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy (CPP) will host “A CPP Symposium on Cyber-threats and Security” on Thursday, April 23. The event will be held at the Academic Learning Commons located at 1000 Floyd Avenue at 8:00 a.m.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / May 6, 2015

Plan off! 2015

Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School will host the fourth annual “VCU Plan-Off!!,” a unique twist on May Madness on Wednesday, May 6.

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Participants in the 2015 Mandela Washington Fellows program gather for a photo on the steps of the Virginia Executive Mansion on June 30.
News / July 6, 2015

The Wilder School is cohosting 25 Mandela Washington Fellows who represent a cross-section of Africa

VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, in partnership with the Global Education Office, is hosting 25 civic leaders this summer who are here through the Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / July 8, 2015

CURA@VCU Partners with Urban Land Institute

The Center for Urban and Regional Analysis at VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs is partnering with the Urban Land Institute’s local chapter to provide a comprehensive look at development in the region.

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News / July 28, 2015

Alumna hones skills in local jails

Last summer, Ayad joined the ranks of more than 100 emerging law enforcement professionals who have participated in the Student Basic Jailer Academy, a unique program designed to provide students with a meaningful experiential opportunity within Henrico County’s Department of Corrections.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / August 14, 2015

Eleventh Annual Excellence in Virginia Government Awards

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University has extended the nominations deadline for the 11th annual Excellence in Virginia Government Awards (EVGA) to Fri., Aug. 14.

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News / August 31, 2015

MURP Student Honored as “Big Picture Thinker”

A second-year student in the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) program, Busching wants to find a solution to keeping rural areas economically vibrant and viable.

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News / September 21, 2015

Two Wilder School faculty receive $400,000 grant to study public corruption

Two Criminal Justice faculty members at Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs have received a $400,000 federal research grant to study public corruption.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / September 28, 2015

Bicycle Urbanism Symposium II

Virginia Commonwealth University’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs will host Bicycle Urbanism Symposium II, September 28-29.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / September 28, 2015

Two wheels, two days: Wilder School to host international cycling symposium

With less than 60 days to the UCI Road World Championships in September, Damian Pitt, an assistant professor of urban and regional studies at the VCU Wilder School, says all eyes are on Richmond.

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News / September 30, 2015

Manhattan Institute Awards Research Grant to Susan Gooden

Susan T. Gooden, Ph.D., professor of public administration and policy at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, has received a research grant of $364,196 to conduct an evaluation of the life outcomes of participants in nonprofit organizations focused on engaging disadvantaged youth from poor and minority communities.

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News / October 8, 2015

Thadani selected to present third annual Gulak lecture.

Dhiru A. Thadani, AIA, award-winning consultant, architect, urbanist and educator, will present the third annual Morton B. Gulak Urban and Regional Planning Lecture on Thursday, Oct. 8.

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The Wilder School's poll asked Virginians about a potential presidential race between President Joe Biden and Gov. Glenn Youngkin, as well as their approval ratings and recent Supreme Court decisions
News / August 3, 2023

VCU Wilder School Commonwealth Poll shows Virginians favor Youngkin over Biden for president

In a hypothetical political showdown between Virginia Governor Youngkin and President Biden, a new Commonwealth Poll conducted by the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University unveils an unexpected preference among Virginians. Youngkin's rising approval, contrasted with a divided sentiment on Biden, portrays a complex picture.

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News / October 12, 2015

Students bring awareness to domestic violence through exhibit

To help bring visibility and awareness to the issue of domestic violence–a crime that constituted nearly 36 percent of all Virginia homicides in 2013 and affects an estimated 12 million Americans annually–students from one class are collaborating with VCU Libraries and the Wellness Resource Center to present a traveling memorial.

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News / October 12, 2015

Dr. Bonnie Gail Mani to speak at VCU

Bonnie Gail Mani, Ph.D., the VCU Wilder School’s first female doctoral graduate and professor of political science at East Carolina University, will share lessons and best practices for a career in academia on Mon., Oct. 12, at 2 p.m. in the Forum Room on the first floor of the VCU Student Commons.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / October 21, 2015

Greater Richmond Exports Initiative: Research Results Briefing

Exports present a tremendous growth opportunity and should be a larger part of the Richmond region’s economic development efforts, according to research conducted by the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis at Virginia Commonwealth University and the Greater Richmond Partnership.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / October 29, 2015

Homeland Security and Emergency Management in Action

Join the Wilder School’s Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program and the Center for Public Policy for a day-long symposium on Thurs., Oct. 29, that will focus on three high-profile issues.

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News / November 9, 2015

Alumni Star: Keith T. Parker, AICP

Keith T. Parker, a Wilder School MURP graduate, leads the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority and is a nationally recognized leader in the public transit industry.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / December 3, 2015

Jill Gordon to Become Wilder School’s Associate Dean for Faculty and Academic Affairs

Jill Gordon, Ph.D., the chair of the Wilder School’s Criminal Justice program since 2011, will become the associate dean for faculty and academic affairs effective January 1.

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2016 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards
News / June 27, 2016

Accepting Nominations for the 2016 Excellence in Virginia Government Awards

The L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University is accepting nominations for the 12th annual Excellence in Virginia Government Awards.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / February 24, 2016

Four Wilder Students Receive “Black History in the Making Awards”

Each year, members of the Virginia Commonwealth University community cap off the celebrations and remembrances of Black History Month with a special awards ceremony that recognizes the contributions of emerging African-American leaders.

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News / December 14, 2015

New website offers a ‘Metro View’ of Richmond community

A new interactive website developed by the Center for Urban and Regional Analysis at Virginia Commonwealth University offers an in-depth look at the metropolitan Richmond area that cuts across the boundaries of local governments.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / January 11, 2016

Dr. Grace Harris, one of the most highly regarded women in higher education, has retired as a distinguished professor of public policy at the leadership institute that bears her name.

Dr. Grace E. Harris, one of the most highly regarded women in higher education, has retired as a distinguished professor of public policy at the leadership institute that bears her name

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News / January 28, 2016

Public supports reforms in juvenile justice, parole, sex offender registry and firearm possession

With the General Assembly in its biannual budget session, many policymakers are focused on public safety reforms as an avenue to not only enhance the equity of the criminal justice system but also to ensure its fiscal efficiency.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / January 29, 2016

GEHLI to host 10th Annual Women’s Leadership Conference

The 10th Annual HIGHER Ground Women's Leadership Conference will take place at the Richmond Marriott, on Friday, Jan. 29

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News / February 4, 2016

Public shows strong support for public safety agencies throughout Virginia

A new Virginia Commonwealth University poll shows strong support for law enforcement across Virginia amid heightened public scrutiny of policing nationwide.

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News / April 14, 2016

HSEP Students Volunteer at Symposium

Nine students from the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness program — six graduate and three undergraduate — assisted at the 2016 Virginia Emergency Management Symposium, held March 29-April 1, the theme of which was “Explore the Possibilities.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / March 1, 2016

Fulbright scholar to lecture on crime in the Caribbean

Richard Bennett, Ph.D., a senior Fulbright Scholar and professor of justice, law and society at American University, will present a lecture on crime and security in the Caribbean at VCU’s L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs next month.

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Plan off! 2016
News / April 29, 2016

Plan-Off 2016! – Real Challenges, Real Solutions

The Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) students will face off in the fifth annual Plan-Off on Friday, April 29.

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News / March 6, 2016

Mission Possible: Eta Lamba Sigma Visits Washington

During spring break, Maureen Moslow-Benway, a Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness instructor, accompanied 14 members of Eta Lambda Sigma on a two-day trip to Washington, D.C.

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2019 Plan-Off artwork created by Wilder faculty member and artist James C. Smither.
News / March 26, 2019

Plan-Off & Pub

Join us on Friday, May 3, as students from the Wilder School’s Master of Urban and Regional Planning program present their ideas for a better community in the annual Plan-Off competition.

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Richard Verma
News / March 17, 2016

Wilder School to host U.S. Ambassador to India

Richard R. Verma, the United States ambassador to India, will speak on campus Thursday, March 17, as part of the Wilder School’s India Chair in Democracy and Civil Society’s 2016 Ranjit Sen Memorial Lecture.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / March 24, 2016

Center for Public Policy to host symposia in March, April

The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy will hold a symposium on Thursday, April 14, that will explore terrorism and radicalization in an open society.

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Image of trophy.
News / April 4, 2016

Wilder School members to receive diversity and inclusion awards

Three outstanding faculty and staff members at the Wilder School will be honored at the university’s 2016 Presidential Awards for Community Multicultural Enrichment (PACME) next month.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / April 8, 2016

Pitt to moderate at clean energy dialogue

Join VCU Wilder School faculty and students for the “VA Power Dialog: A Conversation on Clean Energy,” on Friday, April 8.

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News / April 12, 2016

Gordon, Albanese Recognized As Outstanding Mentors

Two Criminal Justice faculty members received the 2016 Outstanding Mentor Award from the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences during its recent conference in Denver.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / April 14, 2016

Center for Public Policy to host symposium April 14

The Wilder School’s Center for Public Policy will hold a symposium on Thursday, April 14, that will explore terrorism and radicalization in an open society.

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News / April 19, 2016

Airbnb and the Barter Economy: What’s the Future in Virginia?

The barter economy and how Virginia will treat or authorize these types of real estate “businesses” is a hot topic of debate in the General Assembly.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / April 21, 2016

Employer showcase to feature U.S. State Department bureau

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of International Information Programs(IIP) will host a virtual information session on Thursday, April 21.

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David Farmer
News / April 21, 2016

Special journal issue dedicated to David Farmer

An entire issue of the International Journal of Organization Theory and Behavior (IJOTB) was recently dedicated to David John Farmer, Ph.D.

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Wilder Students, Faculty Honored for Outstanding Work
News / April 25, 2016

Wilder Students, Faculty Honored for Outstanding Work

Students and faculty at the Wilder School were recently honored for their outstanding work and contributions.

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Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs news and events
News / April 26, 2016

Showcase to feature National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

The NGA, which delivers world-class intelligence to policymakers, warfighters, intelligence professionals and first responders, will be available to connect with students for career and paid internship opportunities from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in Scherer Hall, Room 401.

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Richmond city block from airplane
News / April 26, 2016

CURA Receives Grants from The Community Foundation and Virginia Association of Realtors

The Wilder School’s Center for Urban and Regional Analysis (CURA) has received grants from The Community Foundation and the Virginia Association of Realtors to study the balance of jobs and housing in the Richmond metropolitan area.

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Students join inaugural council
News / April 28, 2016

Students join inaugural council

A select group of individuals will serve on an inaugural council to support the Wilder student experience.

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Foster Parent Training
News / May 3, 2016

Wilder School Cohosts Seminar on Foster Care

The Wilder School is partnering with the Virginia Commission on Youth and the Family Impact Institute at Purdue University to host a seminar focusing on the fostering futures legislation this Tues., May 3, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the state Capitol in House Room 3.

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Girl Scouts and their troop leaders gather at the Center for Public Policy for Legislative Day on  May 16.
News / May 24, 2019

Center for Public Policy welcomes Girl Scouts for 2019 Legislative Day

The Center for Public Policy (CPP) welcomed more than 60 Girl Scouts and their troop leaders to campus to learn more about the policy-making process as part of their 2019 Legislative Day.

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Three students to participate in international workshop for public policy and administration scholars
News / May 5, 2016

Three students to participate in international workshop for public policy and administration scholars

The American Society of Public Administration (ASPA) has invited three students from the VCU Wilder School to join the Fifth Annual International Young Scholars Workshop in Cape Town, South Africa this summer.

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This summer, Sofia Tortolero Calanche and Nathan Joyner, Master of Public Administration students at VCU’s Wilder School, made significant strides in public policy through the prestigious Governor’s Fellowship Program.
News / August 21, 2024

Governor’s Fellowship empowers Wilder Students to shape policy and make an impact

This summer, within the bustling corridors of Virginia’s state agencies, two standout students from Virginia Commonwealth University's L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs made notable impacts through the prestigious Governor’s Fellowship Program. Sofia Tortolero Calanche and Nathan Joyner, both Master of Public Administration students distinguished by their academic prowess and drive to effect change, immersed themselves in the intricacies of state governance, contributing

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Empowering the Next Generation: The 2024 Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows, pictured here with Governor L. Douglas Wilder and Dean Susan Gooden. These 24 ambitious students are set to make significant contributions to public policy and administration across Virginia.
News / September 4, 2024

Wilder Fellows: shaping the future of public policy

This year, 24 full-time graduate students are set to transform public policy and administration through the esteemed Wilder Graduate Scholars' Fellowship.

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