Bridgette Davis, assistant professor of public policy, has been awarded the Academic Award from the New England Chapter of the American Society for Public Administration (NE-ASPA).
The honor recognizes scholars whose research advances both the science and practice of public administration. Davis was selected for her work on how administrative systems, such as need-based financial aid or anti-poverty programs, can unintentionally create barriers for young adults, and for offering concrete steps to dismantle inequities.
Informed by her experiences as a former public-school educator and a high school college prep administrator, Davis’ research focuses on anti-poverty policy, nonprofit organizations and the transition to adulthood for first-generation and underrepresented students. She is also the founding director of the Equitable Transitions to Adulthood Lab at UMass Amherst.
In announcing the award, the ASPA Awards Committee said Davis’ scholarship is “rigorous, justice-oriented and deeply connected to the needs of real communities,” adding that her work “bridges theory and practice in a way that transforms lives.”
Davis was recognized at the New England ASPA Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on Sept. 19 in Boston.
The American Society for Public Administration is the nation’s leading professional membership association for public service, bringing together government employees, researchers, nonprofit professionals and students to advance excellence in public administration.