Public Policy Associates, Inc. added to its capacity and strengths in recent months with three new staff members: Maran Subramain, Ph.D., Monica Pepple, and JoVontae (Joe) Butts.
Dr. Maran Subramain joined PPA as a research associate II. He brings expert knowledge in designing evaluation frameworks and data-collection instruments, managing quantitative and qualitative databases, and writing technical reports. He is an experienced evaluator of training programs and health promotion programs. Dr. Subramain earned his doctorate in evaluation from Western Michigan University.
Dr. Subramain currently works on projects for the Virginia Community College System, Danville Community College, and Michigan Department of Education.
“Maran brings a strong set of skills, dedication to quality research, and new perspectives to our team,” said co-owner and Vice President Colleen Graber. “He is already adding creative ideas to our workplace and project toolkit.”
Monica Pepple graduated from the University of Michigan with a master’s degree in social work in December 2017 and joined PPA as a research associate. She has quickly become immersed in the multisite Virginia Financial Success Network evaluation.
“We are excited to have Monica join the staff,” said Colleen Graber. “Her experience in social work and research makes her a great contributor to data collection and analysis for our clients in human services and education.”
JoVontae Butts is working as an intern at PPA while he completes his undergraduate degree in sociology from Michigan State University. “Joe has great enthusiasm and energy. This internship helps to develop his research skills and round out his education,” said co-owner and CFO Virginia Orabone.
Joe contributes primarily to data collection and analysis tasks for several of PPA’s juvenile justice and workforce development projects. He also lends assistance to other projects as needed.
PPA is proud to welcome these three outstanding individuals to the company.
PPA is a national policy research, evaluation, and strategic consultation firm.