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2008 Graduate Student Research Award Recipients
Ali Baker, Avril Smart, and Dawn Henderson (Department of Psychology), "Factors that Contribute to Organizational Performance in Charter Schools.” This research project compares case studies of charter schools that vary in their performance. The goal is to learn how capacity building, evaluation practices, and especially governance practices impact organizational performance. The issues go well beyond charter schools but may be especially acute in that setting.
Caitlin Burke (Department of Forestry and Environmental Resources), "Grassroots Environmental Organizations’ Response to Community Forestry in the Western United States.” This research project combines survey and case study approaches to study collaboration among these organizations. Both causes and consequences of collaboration are of interest.
Kylie Parrotta (Department of Sociology and Anthropology), "Impression Management by Nonprofit Organizations Working with Stigmatized Groups.” This research project uses a combination of interviews and observation to examine the identity work done by rollergirls and their league. The challenge here is to balance unconventional femininity with broader marketing of the sport as family-friendly. Many nonprofit organizations have to manage their identities as they appeal for support and legitimacy.
