Research Scientist
ljs4@wilder.org

Laura's work in program evaluation and research includes study design and implementation, project management, and report-writing. Before joining Wilder Research in 2004, she conducted research on racial disparities in the criminal justice system and evaluated programs that worked with crime victims and offenders. Her past work also includes needs assessment and program evaluation for government and nonprofit organizations, and developing self-assessment tools for individuals and organizations.

Laura's research interests include children's well-being, multicultural programs, and violence prevention and intervention. She holds a B.A. degree from Brandeis University in Psychology and Sociology, and has completed Ph.D. coursework in Counseling Psychology at the University of Minnesota.

Recent projects

• An evaluation of two supportive housing programs for people with HIV/AIDS
• Evaluations of educational productions produced by Climb Theatre
• Evaluation services for multiple programs of the Minneapolis American Indian Center
• Neighborhood Development Center program evaluation
• Survey of people who use food shelves and hot meal programs for Hunger Solutions
• Evaluation of the Hmong Youth Pride program and Mentorship Program at Hmong American Partnership

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