Public Policy Associates Research Assistant Erica Dalzell is advancing through the Michigan State University academic system rapidly.
Since starting school in 2012, Ms. Dalzell has earned her bachelor of arts and master of science degrees in criminal justice, and she recently started her Ph.D. program at MSU.
At PPA, Ms. Dalzell assists with data collection, analysis, and reporting for research in the juvenile justice area. She is also a graduate research assistant for MSU, where she works with Dr. Cavanagh doing very similar work to what she does at PPA.
“I really want to help kids and they’re the future. To me, freedom is a fundamental principle of our nation,” she said. “The criminal justice system is the only system that can take away that freedom.”
Ms. Dalzell said that there are disparities in the treatment of children in the juvenile justice system that have a major impact on their future. “I want to pursue an education and career that will help relieve some of those disparities and give all children the best opportunity to thrive,” she said.
Along with her academic growth, she’s been accepting new responsibilities at PPA. Ms. Dalzell has been promoted to Research Assistant.
“It’s great to see our researchers continuing their educational and professional growth. Their growth adds to the value of PPA and what we have to offer to our clients,” said PPA President Colleen E. Graber.
You can find more information about Ms. Dalzell here.