In this month’s spotlight we meet Program Evaluation Intern, Edgar Jaimes-Bautista. He is joining us from Michigan State University, where he is a master’s student in social work. He also received his bachelor of science in psychology from MSU. His long-term goals are to find ways to address addiction and trauma through a social justice approach that challenges standard models of intervention. He sees one path towards this by bridging research, practice, and policy through highlighting the importance of context in understanding trauma, addiction, and behavior. You can learn more about Edgar through our conversation below.
When did you become interested in research and public policy?
I have always appreciated how research can influence policymaking. I acknowledge that without a solid foundation built on sound research design and methodologies, we cannot create meaningful evaluations—especially when working with minoritized groups. Through my research experience, I have come to understand the importance of considering the differences in individuals’ experiences and the interconnected systems of power that can affect one’s daily life. Therefore, ensuring that evaluation methods and program designs are culturally grounded and competent is crucial for me to prioritize in research, ultimately leading to effective, inclusive interventions and evaluations.
What policy areas are you most interested in? Or what kind of projects or topics do you hope to work on in evaluation?
I plan to work on projects related to youth development, substance use, and mental health. These areas often lack representation for marginalized groups, which is why using an approach like community-based participatory research (CBPR) is one of my main priorities. Engaging participants in all stages of research, including policy decisions and evaluations, is highly valued in an approach like CBPR.
I found your experiences listed in your bio really interesting. Can you share more about your experience mentoring at-risk youths? How has that impacted you and your studies?
While working in the Adolescent Diversion Program at MSU, I recognized the value of using a strength-based approach when working with at-risk individuals or people involved in the justice system. I was able to apply understanding of unique social and contextual risk factors that individuals experience and support them based on their needs, rather than intervening punitively. Thanks to this program, my role as an undergraduate assistant, and mentorship from Sean Hankins, I realized that pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) would be the best next step for my goals. It allows me to enter the field while continuing to address, study, and research disparities faced by my community. I gained experience assisting individuals dealing with trauma and substance use issues clinically. However, these experiences have also revealed a significant gap related to critical issues such as discrimination, substance use, and culturally appropriate interventions—particularly their impact on trauma and substance use.
I was really inspired by the idea you mentioned in your bio of using research and evaluation to impact policy around trauma and addiction. Can you tell us more?
Most definitely, eventually, I would love to work with marginalized groups, which tend to be the most affected by substance use disorders. During my graduate and undergraduate research, I developed an interest in the processes over time that can lead to the development of substance use disorders and how essential it is to evaluate existing empirically supported interventions for groups with differing experiences. This is especially important because symptoms and experiences can vary due to contextual, political, cultural, and social factors. Through research, evaluation, and skills I will gain at PPA, I aim to explore the connection between racial discrimination, mental health, and traumatic stress while engaging in CBPR.
What drew you to work at PPA?
I knew I wanted to use my skills in a way that would yield meaningful change in real time. When I discovered PPA and its practices, I was immediately drawn in. Especially given the diversity and uniqueness of everyone’s backgrounds, being in this environment would allow me to work with people who share similar passions and to develop the skills necessary to become a successful researcher.
What are your hopes or long-term goals after this internship?
I am passionate about contributing to the growing body of research that can positively impact people’s lives. I am especially interested in exploring how empirically supported interventions can be most effective for disorders within marginalized communities. I aim to develop and promote innovative interventions and policies, with the goal of creating programs that genuinely address the disparities faced by underrepresented groups.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work and school?
I enjoy spending quality moments with my partner and listening to music. I also frequently visit Grand Rapids to spend as much time with my family back home, and when I have free time, I enjoy reading to unwind.