Here are the top 10 "News from Watson" stories of 2024:
10. Watson MPA students demonstrate career readiness in Policy in Action Symposium
At this year's Master of Public Affairs Policy in Action Symposium, graduating MPA students presented on a wide range of policy issues from a variety of perspectives, in each case informed by the hands-on experience they gained working with an external organization.
9. DIAP course development funds help increase emphasis on diversity and inclusion in Watson's curriculum
The Watson Institute's Diversity and Inclusion Plan committee funded three faculty members in their efforts to create a greater focus on diversity and inclusion in the institute's teaching and learning.
8. Graduate Program in Development fosters dialogue across disciplines
The Watson Institute's Graduate Program in Development (GPD) brings together Brown University scholars from a range of departments to think together around questions of development in ways that build on but move beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.
7. Postdoctoral fellows reflect on their growth and accomplishments during their Watson residencies
With their terms ending, five Watson postdoctoral fellows and one postdoctoral research associate look to continue their academic careers armed with new skills acquired in the Watson Institute's unique and robust intellectual environment.
6. Three MPA students and one alumna named Presidential Management Fellows finalists
Three Watson Master of Public Affairs students and one alumna were named finalists for the prestigious Presidential Management Fellows class of 2024. They are now eligible to apply for positions as fellows in the federal workforce where they hope to make an impact on a variety of public policy issues.
5. Ten Brown undergraduates get a crash course in global affairs journalism during winter 'bootcamp'
Over winter break, ten Brown students learned the ins and outs of journalism focused on global issues and the nuances of international reporting in an evolving media landscape at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a prestigious Washington, D.C. think tank. In one week, they learned more than they could have imagined.
4. New policy labs will 'turbo-charge' Watson research programs
Watson Policy Labs, a new initiative of the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs, will enhance the link between teaching, research and public outreach by addressing specific policy issues through a combination of faculty research, student training, research-based courses and public outreach.
3. MPA Program welcomes diverse new student cohort
Brown University’s Master of Public Affairs Program recently welcomed its latest class to its rigorous one-year program. The new students bring their diverse life experiences and interests to a vibrant and dynamic learning community, where they will apply their learning to address pressing societal challenges, preparing them to be global leaders in public affairs.
2. Students in IAPA senior seminar offer policy recommendations to California city facing a prison closure
After a semester of intensive research, students in Professor John Eason's senior seminar offered the city of Blythe, California advice on how to best navigate a looming prison closure.
1. Watson Equity in Policy Scholars Program has launched and is open for applications
Applications are now open for the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs Master of Public Affairs Program's Equity in Policy Scholars program, a scholarship and leadership development program designed to increase the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives in public policy making.