I consider myself a scholar activist. My work connects research with advocacy and policy. To me, scholar activism means doing research that matters both inside and outside the university. It treats everyday community members as experts and makes sure their voices are heard in research and policy.

I do this in three ways. First, I do research with and for Black and marginalized communities, using surveys, interviews, and focus groups. This work focuses on the issues these communities care about most, and lifts up the solutions communities themselves propose. Second, I help advocacy and policy organizations use data, turning research findings into practical guidance for policymakers. Third, I organize community events where students, scholars, practitioners, and residents come together to share ideas and talk about the issues shaping their lives.

I also bring scholar activism into the classroom by giving students chances to work with the community. Through service learning and hands-on projects, students don’t just study politics and policy. They begin to see themselves as people who can help solve the problems they study.

In the end, scholar activism lets me connect research to action that benefits the communities that inspire my work.