Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship
This prestigious program provides top full-time students in each of our master’s programs with professional work experience, in-state tuition and fees, and a stipend through a host employer.
For the 2025–2026 academic year, we are proud to have a record 28 Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows, all full-time graduate students enrolled in our master's programs.
Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows are placed with employers around the Richmond region each year, including at nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses. Appointments are for one academic year that begins in mid-August and ends in mid-May. Wilder Fellows are expected to work 20 hours a week while maintaining full-time enrollment in one of our four master’s programs.
For more information, please email wilderfellows@vcu.edu or call the Office of Student Success at 804-827-2791.
Host a Wilder Fellow
The Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship connects outstanding graduate students with state agencies, public interest firms and nonprofit agencies for a full academic year. Wilder Fellows are competitively selected from the school's master’s programs in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, and Urban and Regional Planning.
Employers select qualified students through a rigorous application process. Employers interview screened applicants and work together with program staff to find the student match that best fits the organization’s needs.
Timeline and schedule
- Fall and early spring semesters: Program staff meet with potential employers.
- March: Students submit Wilder Fellowship applications.
- April: Program staff conducts initial intake interviews to screen applicants from our four master's programs and to identify highly qualified candidates.
- April and May: Confirmed host agencies begin reviewing candidates and conducting interviews.
- May and June: Wilder Fellowship placements for the upcoming academic year are finalized.
- August: Orientation for Wilder Fellows takes place in early August, with employment beginning in mid-August.
- Mid-August to mid-May: Wilder Fellows work 20 hours per week with their host employer while enrolled full-time as graduate students.
Wilder Fellows work on special projects and provide program support for 20 hours a week (on average) for nine months (mid-August through mid-May) — a total of 760 hours over the course of 38 weeks.
Most classes are held during the late afternoon and evening, which allows Wilder Fellows to work during the day.
Service-Learning Course
The Wilder Fellowship service-learning course is a required component of the program. Wilder Fellows are encouraged to structure their schedules to accommodate:
- One credit for the required service-learning course (GVPA 694) in the fall
- Two credits for the required service-learning course (GVPA 694) in the spring
- Additional coursework as determined by individual academic plans
Wilder Fellows are required to work an average of 20 hours per week at their placement throughout the academic year, in addition to maintaining full-time graduate student enrollment (9+ credit hours per semester).
Students are encouraged to consult their academic advisors to confirm how GVPA 694 fits within their degree requirements.
Research and analysis expertise
Many Wilder Fellows have professional experience and significant skills in research design, public finance and budgeting, statistical analysis, geographical information systems, policy analysis, program evaluation, human resources, incident planning and response, or other key areas of public and nonprofit management.
The 2025-26 cost for a Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellow to work in an organization is $33,789, which includes $17,789 for full-time, in-state master’s tuition and fees (2025-26 academic year) and a $16,000 stipend.
Learn more
For more information on hosting a Wilder Fellow, contact us at wilderfellows@vcu.edu.
Meet the 2025-26 Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellows
In our 19th year of the program, we are proud to support a record 28 Wilder Fellows - full-time graduate students enrolled in our Master’s programs. Each Wilder Fellow receives financial support totaling $33,789, which includes in-state tuition and fees ($17,789) and a $16,000 stipend ($21.05/hour). The total investment in direct student support for this cohort is $946,092. These 28 Wilder Fellows are placed with 18 diverse host organizations across multiple sectors including local government, nonprofits, state agencies/commissions, and on-campus hosts.
2025-2026 host employers
- Cameron Foundation
- Capital Region Airport Commission
- Center for Public Policy, VCU Wilder School
- Chesterfield County Planning Department
- Division of Legislative Services
- Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute (GEHLI), VCU Wilder School
- Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC)
- Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission
- Research Institute for Social Equity (RISE), VCU Wilder School
- RVA Eviction Lab, VCU Wilder School
- Urban Green Equity and Resilience Project
- Virginia CDFI Coalition
- Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
- Virginia Department of Social Services
- Virginia Retirement System
- Virginia State Crime Commission
2025-2026 Wilder Fellows by organization
Destinee Allen 
Destinee Allen, from Henrico County, Virginia, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia. As well as an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College through a dual-enrollment program in high school. As a first-generation college student, she is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, with interests in understanding human behavior, problem-solving through a social equity lens, and exploring the criminal justice system. She aspires to work for a federal agency as a behavioral analyst, criminal profiler, or forensic psychologist and eventually move into a supervisory role to have more impact on decision-making processes. The Wilder Fellowship Program aligns with her goals of building and strengthening professional relationships and enhancing her knowledge and skillsets through practical application. Excited with her new placement at the Cameron Foundation as a first-year Wilder Fellow, she looks forward to gaining real-world experience, participating in evaluative processes, and exploring diverse career interests.
Javion Peterson
Javion Peterson, from Stafford, Virginia, is pursuing a Master of Public Administration and holds a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a minor in Special Education. Dedicated to fostering belonging and strengthening communities, he aims to increase civic engagement at all levels of government. His professional experience spans governmental, nonprofit, and for-profit sectors, where he has been a strong advocate for health equity, social justice, and education policy. Looking ahead, Peterson seeks to shape executive-level policy that builds healthy, vibrant, and sustainable communities, with a focus on quality K–12 education and youth engagement. Through the program, he is gaining expertise in research methods and data analytics to enhance his leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills; tools he intends to use to better serve communities and organizations in Virginia and nationwide.
David Glass 
David Glass was born in South Carolina, although he has lived in Virginia for most of his life. David is currently pursuing a master’s degree in homeland security and emergency preparedness at Virginia Commonwealth University. He graduated from Christopher Newport University in 2020 with a degree in political science with two minors in psychology as well as human rights and conflict resolution. David has a particular interest in security, intelligence, disaster response, and counterterrorism. In the future, David aims to work as an intelligence analyst within the federal government to help protect Americans from domestic and foreign threats. After graduating with his undergraduate degree, David spent 3 years working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities within a residential setting. During this period, David was recognized as a finalist for the Carla Clemons Leadership Award and was promoted to house manager within the group home. After spending a few years in the workforce, David is excited to continue his education and continue to develop professionally as an emerging leader through his experience with the Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship Program.
Kayla Howard 
Kayla Howard hails from Newport News, Virginia, and is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a certificate in Homeland Security. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from VCU with a concentration in Forensic Crime Scene Investigation and a minor in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. Her academic interests center on the Ethics of Care theory and its application within the criminal justice system. With a passion for bridging research and practice, Kayla aspires to advance her studies through a Ph.D. program and ultimately serve in a federal agency where she can contribute to policy development and the implementation of care-based frameworks in justice processes. Kayla brings notable leadership experience as the former Vice President of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, where she worked to foster professional networks and expand her knowledge of criminal justice reform. Beyond leadership, her academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to equity, innovation, and meaningful change within the field. Through the Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship, Kayla hopes to refine her research skills, deepen her understanding of policy development, and connect with mentors, peers, and stakeholders dedicated to advancing justice. She looks forward to leveraging this experience to prepare for doctoral study and position herself as a scholar-practitioner committed to change making in criminal justice.
Tess Robertson 
Tess Robertson is a first-year Wilder Graduate Scholar at Virginia Commonwealth University, pursuing a Master’s in Public Administration. She holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration (Management) and Political Science Pre-Law with a focus on Aviation Studies from Longwood University. Her aviation journey began in high school when she earned her pilot license through the Williamsburg Aviation Scholarship Program. Since then, she has received full funding and multiple aviation scholarships, including the Willard G. Plentl, Captain Earle Worley, Charles Colgan, and Chad Weaver awards. Now instrument-rated and working toward her commercial license, Tess is passionate about expanding aviation access for underserved communities by replicating the scholarship-supported pathway that shaped her own experience. Tess brings leadership experience from both aviation and community organizations. She serves on the boards of the Virginia Aviation Historical Society, Virginia Aviation Business Association, and Colonial CASA, and is a senior member of the Civil Air Patrol. Professionally, she is pursuing a career in aviation lobbying to help remove barriers within the industry. Her political experience includes recognition as a Sorensen Institute alumna and service as a Governor’s Fellow under the Secretariat of Transportation. In her free time, she enjoys flying, playing piano, and spending time with family.
Jade Simpson 
Center for Public Policy (Ceasefire Virginia Project)
Jade Simpson is a Criminal Justice Masters student from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. She earned her Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Criminology from North Carolina State University in 2024. Jade is interested in Leadership Development, Criminal Justice Policy, Substance Use Issues and Harm Reduction, and Program Administration. Jade served as a Lead for North Carolina Fellow with AmeriCorps and the UNC School of Government in Robeson County, NC, where she focused on grant administration and building capacity for the county government. She is dedicated to building a career within the public sector and is still exploring which direction she wants to pursue. Through the Wilder Fellowship, Jade hopes to understand the Criminal Justice field through practical experience to deepen her understanding and guide her toward a career where she can make the greatest impact. She is eager to learn and excited to take opportunities as they come.
William Conover 
Center for Public Policy
William Conover is a Master of Public Administration student from Midlothian, Virginia. He graduated from the University of Richmond in 2017 with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Two years later, he pivoted his career toward the public sector. Since then, William has organized for the Democratic Party of Virginia as well as a number of environmental nonprofits. He was fortunate enough to work with volunteers all across the country as they battled to keep their communities safe. After his time organizing, he wanted to find a way to help effect change at the policy level. William has a particular interest in corporate accountability, effective policy, and the development of affordable cities. He is open to working across public, nonprofit, or legislative settings so long as meaningful change is possible. By participating in the Wilder Fellowship program William hopes to gain experience in analysis, evaluation, and strategic planning. He is committed to translating academic learning into practical impact through the Fellowship, and beyond, to his career in public service.
Andrew Fennel 
Center for Public Policy
Andrew Fennel, raised in Vienna Virginia, earned a Bachelor’s of Science from VCU as a double major in Psychology and Political Science, with a concentration in international relations. Driven by a passionate interest in social research and public policy evaluation, Fennel spent his time as an undergraduate student gaining hands-on research experience. His introduction to professional research started with an internship at the VCU Discrimination and Health Laboratory, followed by two years as a data entry clerk at the VCU Center for Public Policy, where he has established himself as a key member of the Survey and Evaluation Research Laboratory (SERL) data team. While Fennel is working towards his Master’s in Public Administration, the Wilder Fellowship has allowed him to continue supporting research projects that evaluate and inform public policy in Virginia, while also taking on more responsibility at SERL. Fennel looks forward to utilizing his graduate education experience to help forge a career in the field of policy research.
Dagny Oakley 
Dagny Oakley, from Fredericksburg, VA, is pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning with a concentration in Environmental Planning. She has earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies with a minor in Political Science from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her interests include clean energy planning, land use planning, and environmental justice. In the future, she hopes to work in comprehensive planning at the local level, or become involved in environmental nonprofit work. Some of her notable achievements include co-authoring a report on the benefits of distributed solar in Virginia, as well as the implementation of her small area plan for the Northern Route 10 Corridor into Chesterfield County’s comprehensive plan. In her second year of the Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship with Chesterfield County Planning, she looks forward to expanding on her previous work in the department and taking on any new projects and challenges that come her way.
Faith Holmes 
Faith Janelle Holmes earned her bachelor's degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) in May 2024. She is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration at VCU, where she is a Wilder Graduate Scholar Fellow, working in the Division of Legislative Services at the Virginia General Assembly. Faith is passionate about advancing health equity, promoting racial justice, and supporting positive youth development through her research. Next, she plans to pursue a law degree, and begin practicing as a public interest attorney. Faith’s passion for law, social justice, and research, serve as the foundation for her continued interest in advancing her career and promoting social equity.
Megan Forbes 
Megan Forbes is a first year Master of Urban and Regional Planning student at the Wilder School, with a background in social work, international education, and public assistance. Megan earned her Bachelors of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and has since served families in Fairfax County through her work with the Department of Family Services. Her professional path has been shaped by direct service roles, cross-cultural experiences abroad, and a commitment to understanding how systems, infrastructure, and design affect individual and collective well-being. Megan’s interest in planning was influenced by her fieldwork with Richmond Public Schools’ Center for Families in Transition, where she supported families experiencing housing instability and systemic barriers. Her time teaching in Spain further strengthened her belief in the power of intentional design to influence quality of life. As a Wilder Scholars Fellow with the Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute, Megan is expanding her leadership skills alongside professionals across sectors, deepening her capacity to drive equitable, community-focused planning. She is focused on the intersection of public and environmental health through climate resilience in planning.
Davine Brooks 
Davine Brooks is from Richmond, Virginia and is a dedicated emerging professional in the fields of emergency preparedness and homeland security with a commitment to community resilience and advocacy. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Spelman College and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness at Virginia Commonwealth University. While at Spelman College she developed a passion for understanding the intersection of policy, public service, and equity, which were highlighted through roles as a Research Assistant, with the late Congressman Donald McEachin and served on the campaign management team of candidate Dr. Eaves for Georgia Secretary of State. Her current studies at Virginia Commonwealth University expands her expertise in crisis response, strategic planning, and risk management. Post-graduation, career plans include joining the Department of Homeland Security and serving as a voice for the vulnerable and underserved communities, ensuring that preparedness and recovery strategies align with inclusion and equity. Through the Wilder Fellows Program, she aims to increase her skills in leadership and communication and forge new connections that will further equip her to serve and advocate for vulnerable populations.
Matthew Sturgis 
Matthew Sturgis is a Master’s student in Urban and Regional Planning at VCU, with a focus on rail infrastructure, land use, and public service delivery. Originally from Boothwyn, Pennsylvania, he holds a BA in German Studies from Rutgers University and an MS in Organization Development and Leadership from Saint Joseph’s University. His diverse career spans military, financial, and transportation sectors. He served eight years as a U.S. Army officer, culminating as a company commander at Panmunjom, Korea. After transitioning to civilian life, he worked in financial advising and small business banking before returning to graduate study. As a graduate intern with the Virginia Passenger Rail Authority, he contributed to service performance analysis and station planning. Currently, he is a Wilder Fellow with GRTC, supporting the planning department. Passionate about rail and public transportation, Matthew aims to build a career in intercity rail operations or planning, with a long-term goal of expanding passenger and freight rail mode share. Through the Wilder Fellowship, he seeks hands-on experience in transit planning and deeper insight into agency decision-making.
Jaron Leon 
A native of Gate City, Virginia, Jaron Leon is a first-year Master of Public Administration student. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Virginia, where he applied his academic interests in ethics and justice to policy analysis and research. Later, after serving immigrants in the nonprofit sector, he developed interest in several policy areas that impact working-class communities, from affordable housing to workforce development. At JLARC, he looks to explore those policy areas while gaining the skills needed to conduct objective and meaningful policy research. In the future, he aspires to contribute to impactful policy-making while working as a policy analyst.
Mariam Al-khafaji 
Mariam Al-khafaji is pursuing higher education at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs. She is passionate about advocating for marginalized and vulnerable populations through research, policy analysis, and the collection of evidence-based data. She is a second-year MPA student and Wilder Fellow at the Research Institute for Social Equity (RISE). There, she has been involved in coordinating multiple focus groups and interviews as well as community-based research. She has presented work at the Social Equity Leadership Conference involving Arab American Muslim Mental Health. She is also a part of the 2025 ASPA Founders’ Fellows cohort and presented at their annual conference regarding how emotional labor affects local public servants, specifically crisis clinicians’ PSM levels. Additionally, Mariam is applying to PhD programs in the hopes of teaching and mentoring future generations about the importance of being involved in mixed methods and how to make a positive impact in society, particularly with marginalized and vulnerable populations. Mariam is also interested in the Arab region and hopes to do field research in the Middle East, as she published a paper in her department’s journal in political science, on how low SES affects voter participation among Arab citizens.
Rowan Baylosis 
Rowan Baylosis (she/they) is a Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellow in the Master’s in Urban and Regional Planning Program. Hailing from Norfolk, Virginia, she has worked in various areas over her professional career ranging from landscape architecture, national parks research, and historic preservation. They previously worked as a GIS Specialist and Planner at Stromberg/Garrigan & Associates, a nationally recognized urban design firm specializing in brownfields development and coastal resilience. During her time there, she managed geospatial projects for clients such as the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Brownfields Office, the Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office (PA-SHPO), and the Central Virginia Planning District Commission (CVPDC). She has specialized in creating online geospatial tools to aid communities and planning officials with data driven decision making. She earned her Bachelors in Geography from Old Dominion University in 2023.
Anna Grace Causey 
Anna Grace Causey is from Powhatan, Virginia and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law, with a concentration in Political Science and a minor in Sociology from University of Richmond and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration. Causey received a grant from the University of Richmond in 2022 to research sex trafficking patterns in Richmond, VA. She later conducted qualitative research with grassroots and human rights organizations in Nepal, Jordan, and Chile, analyzing women’s reproductive health across the three countries. Her capstone focused on policy solutions to kleptocracy and corruption in Nepal. Most recently, she worked as an Administrative Assistant for the House Appropriations Committee, gaining firsthand experience in policy development through the budget process. As a Wilder Fellow, she currently contributes to the Legislative Equity Review dashboard where she hopes to advance her research skills and commitment to social justice. In the future, Causey envisions coupling her passion for human rights with her expertise in public policy to advance equitable and inclusive solutions that drive meaningful change.
Vivian Frazier 
Vivian Frazier hailing from Chesapeake, Virginia, is a dedicated advocate for social justice and equity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in comparative politics and duels minors in English and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies and is currently pursuing a master’s in public administration. Driven by her passion for various issues like women’s rights, healthcare disparities, and mental health, Frazier is eager to advocate for and empower marginalized communities through comprehensive analysis and policy recommendations that yield tangible results. As a Wilder Fellow, she hopes to utilize and enhance the skills she garnered as an undergraduate student through research and community engagement. Throughout her time as a fellow and a graduate student, Frazier is eager to build long-lasting connections and deepen her impact in the greater Richmond community. Looking to the future, Frazier anticipates a fulfilling career that fuses her love of people and public policy together.
Emily Schreer 
Emily Schreer (she/her) is currently pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning at VCU. She received her Bachelor of International Studies from American University, with a minor in public health. Emily's work experience spans both government and community-based international roles. As an undergraduate, she conducted research and worked to build the capacity of a Nairobi-based nonprofit organization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Emily served two years as a CDC fellow at Richmond City Health District, assisting with pandemic response and maternal/child health programs. She then transferred to the Virginia State Health Department, where she worked in viral hepatitis prevention and harm reduction. In the summer of 2025, Emily completed a three-week urban planning summer course at the University of Amsterdam focused on cycling infrastructure. She currently works as a research assistant at the Research Institute for Social Equity, exploring emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation related to climate change in rural and vulnerable communities. Emily's work and academic experience have contributed to her passion for health equity and community building. After graduating in 2026, she hopes to work on improving mobility justice in Richmond, Virginia.
Natalie Somerville 
Natalie Somerville, originally from Gaithersburg, Maryland, is pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning (with a focus on environmental planning) and a GIS Certificate. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, with minors in Geography and French, from University of Richmond. Somerville’s interests focus on environmental sustainability and community-oriented planning, and she is pursuing a planning career centered around inclusive decision-making, community advocacy, and expanding & enhancing green infrastructure. She conducted research and coauthored a report to the National Park Service, recommending Bear Rocks Preserve as a National Natural Landmark – the area was awarded such a designation in 2021, becoming the 600th NNL. As a Wilder Fellow with RVA Eviction Lab, Somerville is eager to build on several years of housing-related work experience by gaining a broader and more nuanced understanding of housing issues in Virginia, with the goal of moving towards more affordable, equitable, healthy, and accessible housing for all.
Lia Deasy 
Lia Deasy, born and raised in Henrico County, holds a B.A. in Art History and Environmental Science from the College of William & Mary and is pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning. As an aspiring environmental planner and sustainable food systems advocate, she cares deeply about urban agriculture, public land conservation, and equitable access to greenspaces. Her prior research explores the diverse priorities of modern sustainable design projects. Looking forward, she envisions a career path combining her interest in food systems with land use planning to promote environmental justice and climate resilience. Through the Wilder Fellowship, Deasy is eager to expand her professional network and engage with organizations planning a more sustainable future.
Josie LaPrad 
Josie LaPrad, a Richmond Metro Area native, is completing her Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship with the Urban Green Equity and Resilience Project at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Prior to pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning at VCU, she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in Environmental Science and Sustainability Studies from the University of Lynchburg. Josie’s academic and professional interests lie at the confluence of agenda-setting, funding, and power dynamics in conservation and ocean governance - which sparked from her time as a coral reef conservation intern at Reef Relief in Key West, Florida, where she taught K–12 marine science curriculum and organized community outreach programs. Josie also serves as the Community Outreach Chair for the Urban Planning Student Association at VCU. Following graduation, she hopes to begin a conservation-focused career in Central Virginia. Through the Wilder Graduate Scholars Fellowship, Josie aims to deepen her understanding of the power dynamics and relationships that shape urban environmental planning.
Zach FitzPatrick 
Zach FitzPatrick is from Rockville, Virginia and is in the second year of the MPA program at the Wilder School. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness from VCU, which he obtained in the spring of 2023. Zach has a deep interest in government policy and our legislative process. He fostered his fascination with our legislature during his time in the VCU Capitol Semester Program as an undergrad, which gave him the opportunity to intern in the Virginia General Assembly in 2023. This experience inspired Zach to pursue an MPA degree at VCU. Once Zach graduates, he hopes to continue making his own impact on our legislative process through careers that are directly involved in policymaking such as policy research and advocacy work that reflects his personal values. As a Wilder Fellow, Zach hopes to continue his professional development with the VA CDFI Coalition and strengthen his relationships with other Fellows, his coworkers, and his community in general.
Ellie Plisko
Ellie Plisko, from Catonsville, MD, is pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning with a focus on environmental and regional planning. She has earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Tampa along with a Graduate Certificate in Community Development from the University of South Florida. Committed to fostering a resilient future, Plisko aims to integrate sustainable practices into planning to address climate change challenges. Her goal is to work with regional planning agencies or environmental firms to develop strategies that cater to diverse community needs. Passionate about flood resilience, clean energy, and climate change adaptation, she prioritizes inclusive, community-based planning that promotes environmental justice. Plisko looks forward to a second year making a contribution to creating a sustainable and equitable future as a Wilder Fellow.
Catherine Auwarter 
Catherine Auwarter, from Verona, Virginia, has a passionate interest in policy and legislation research and advocacy regarding rights for women and LGBTQ+ folks. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration. Her experience and knowledge gained from being a student, Research Assistant, and Wilder Fellow will help her in her aspirations to work as a policy analyst. Her overall mission is to work with communities in creating and maintaining equitable policies and programs to ensure that those communities not only survive but thrive. One of her proudest achievements is her development of original data regarding the demographics of VCU voter and non-voter groups in conjunction with VCU Votes, the Richmond Metropolitan League of Women Voters, and the Richmond General Registrar. This project helped her realize her passion for collaboration and participatory action research (PAR). As a Wilder Fellow, she is eager to work with the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and contribute to the operationalization of the learning and development of the organization.
Megan Negri 
Megan Negri is from Richmond, Virginia, and has earned a Bachelor of Science in Urban and Regional Studies and Planning with a minor in Environmental Studies from Virginia Commonwealth University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Urban and Regional Planning in generalized studies, with interests centered around social justice informed by the principles of advocacy planning. She aims to promote equitable representation in planning processes, cultural inclusion in urban design, and environmental resilience. She is particularly proud of her contributions to the Chesterfield County Department of Parks and Recreation comprehensive plan update process, where she provided recommendations ensuring parkland distribution was reflective and responsive to community usage and the agency’s land conservation values. Through the Wilder Fellowship, she is eager to collaborate with the Virginia Department of Social Services who also are dedicated to supporting the health and betterment of communities from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and committed to providing equitable accessibility to their services. Based on her experiences, Megan aspires to secure a career that commits to addressing systemic inequities in the built environment, and ensuring planning practices reflect both ecological priorities and the lived experiences of historically marginalized groups.
Bob Pryor 
Bob Pryor is a Chester County, Pennsylvania native, currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration with a focus on Public Management. Pryor graduated with his associate’s degree from Reynolds Community College and earned his bachelor’s in political science from VCU with a minor in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. A US Navy veteran, Bob is passionate about veteran advocacy and supporting other student veterans to, through, and beyond higher education and into rewarding civilian careers. This is an area where Bob wants to make an impact in a future career, helping to foster sustainable programs and policies that promote economic mobility for individuals and communities. Bob is a 2024 Student Veterans of America Leadership Fellow and recipient of the VCU College of Humanities and Science Excellence in Community Engagement Award for 2025. He hopes to leverage his experience with VRS to access new skills in policy and program development through the Wilder Fellowship to build upon Virginia’s reputation as one of the best states in the nation not only for veterans, but for individuals from all walks of life to work and thrive.
Addie Namboodri 
Addie Namboodri, from Cary, North Carolina, is pursuing a Master of Criminal Justice and Certification in Gender Violence Intervention. After graduating from North Carolina School of Science and Math, they earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Tulane University as a Stamps scholar. Namboodri plans to work in policy research after graduating, with a particular interest in interpersonal violence, gender violence, misuse of power by those in positions of power, and marijuana policies. Throughout high school and undergrad, Namboodri worked with RTI International as a research intern working on a variety of topics including patient centered care, tobacco research, and pre-exposure prophylaxis. While working at Tulane University's IT Department, Namboodri became certified as a Microsoft Certified Power BI Data Analyst Associate. They are excited to be a part of the Wilder Fellows program, which provides them the opportunity to work with the Virginia State Crime Commission to further explore their interest in policy research and gain valuable connections.