Research Associate I Calandra Reichel brings strong qualitative research skills to her work at Public Policy Associates with experience that includes data collection and analysis, survey design, and reporting. She values culturally responsive and equitable approaches to her work. She has a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in youth and society, a master’s in social work with an organizational and community leadership concentration, as well as a graduate certificate in program evaluation, all from Michigan State University.
How did you become passionate about public policy?
Growing up, I understood how impactful public policy is through my father’s work in environmental law, and I have always been drawn to policy and felt the need to understand why things are done in the way they are. As an undergraduate in MSU’s social work program, I initially thought that I would pursue clinical work, working directly with and advocating for youth in some capacity. However, during my work with MSU’s Adolescent Diversion Program and my work with youth experiencing homelessness, I became really frustrated by how the designs of systems and policies were detrimental to people and hindered their success—knowing that while direct work was important, changes at the policy level were needed to address the root issues. I also observed how responsive public policy and intentional program development and evaluation could help address these issues, noting that my skills were a good fit for this work.
What areas of public policy interest you most?
While I am genuinely interested in all public-policy areas, public policy affecting youth, especially around the juvenile justice system, is a major interest area for me. Youth tend to be spoken about rather than listened to in a meaningful way, and I have seen the valuable perspectives they contribute when given opportunities to weigh in on the policies that impact them. As for the justice system, I think it is an area where you see the intersection of all systems and how public-policy issues interact.
Why is equity a key value in your work?
I’ve observed how systemic inequities ingrained in our society and policies create barriers and injustices for people. I think that if we aren’t looking at these inequities as we conduct our work, then we aren’t getting the full picture. And if we aren’t getting the full picture or trying to address these inequities, then key issues and shortfalls will persist. My social work background also reminds me to center equity in my work and interactions, which I strive to do.
What type of research do you enjoy most?
I am primarily a qualitative researcher, though I enjoy mixed-methods research and, of course, value quantitative research as well. Qualitative research allows us to get a nuanced, detailed understanding of the experiences, perspectives, and actions of people who are affected by or implementing programs and policies.
PPA is a virtual company. Where are you based?
I am currently based in a small town in northern Wisconsin. It is just outside of Iron Mountain in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. I moved here from East Lansing, Michigan last year and have loved exploring the U.P. and Wisconsin.
What kind of career path do you anticipate?
Working at PPA gives me the opportunity to combine my passions for policy, evaluation, and advancing equity in my everyday work on projects that have tangible, positive impacts on people and communities. I hope to continue doing work that informs real action and improvements in public policy and that allows me to directly interact with the people that policies and programs affect.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I love the outdoors and enjoy hiking, backpacking, and camping with my fiancé whenever we get the chance. We most recently took a backpacking trip to Isle Royale National Park. I also love listening to music and watching Michigan and Detroit Lions football.