Center for Public Policy
Mission and Vision for the Center for Public Policy:
Mission: The Center for Public Policy at the University of South Alabama is dedicated to advancing the public good through rigorous research, evidence-based policy analysis, and collaborative solutions to the most pressing social, political, and economic challenges of our time. As a self-sustaining, nonprofit entity within the University of South Alabama, the Center is committed to enhancing the university's mission by fostering interdisciplinary research, providing expert consulting services, and delivering targeted training programs that empower organizations and communities to make informed decisions and implement effective policies.
Vision: Our vision is to be a leading hub of policy innovation and research excellence, recognized both regionally and nationally for our contributions to the development of informed, just, and equitable public policies. We strive to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world applications by engaging with policymakers, practitioners, and the community to address complex societal issues. Through our work, we aim to shape the future of public policy in the region and beyond, fostering sustainable and impactful solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities.
Core Services of the Center for Public Policy
Research and Analysis: The Center for Public Policy provides comprehensive research and analysis services, specializing in the examination of social, political, and broad policy issues – running the gambit from Health to Environment to Criminal Justice. Our research is evidence-based and utilizes both qualitative and quantitative methodologies to deliver actionable insights. We work closely with clients to define the scope of research, ensuring that our studies are tailored to meet specific needs and objectives. Whether through statistical analyses, econometric modeling, or case studies, our goal is to provide data-driven solutions that inform policy decisions and drive positive outcomes.
Consulting and Training: Our consulting services are designed to support organizations in developing and implementing effective public policies and administrative practices. We offer expert advice on a range of issues, from policy development and program evaluation to strategic planning and stakeholder engagement. Additionally, the Center offers training programs and workshops to build capacity among government agencies, nonprofits, and other organizations. These programs are designed to enhance understanding of policy processes, administrative oversight, improve decision-making, and equip participants with the tools needed to address complex policy challenges.
Survey Research: The Center has extensive experience in conducting survey research, including public opinion polling, focus groups, and in-depth interviews. We design and execute surveys that gather valuable data on a wide range of topics, providing insights that are crucial for policy development. Our survey research is supported by advanced methodologies and sophisticated data analysis techniques. The findings from our surveys are used to inform policy recommendations, assess public needs, and evaluate the impact of existing programs.
Policy and Program Evaluation: We specialize in evaluating public policies and programs to determine their effectiveness and identify areas for improvement. By integrating results from multiple methodologies—such as surveys, focus groups, and statistical analyses—we provide comprehensive evaluations that guide policymakers in making informed decisions. Our evaluations range from small-scale needs assessments to large-scale cost-benefit analyses, ensuring that our clients receive thorough and reliable information on which to base their actions.
Center Leadership
Directors:
Dr. Thomas Shaw
Dr. Thomas Shaw is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science and
Criminal Justice at the University of South Alabama. He also serves as Director of
USA Polling Group. His academic expertise lies in American politics, with a particular
focus on health policy research. As a co-director of the Center for Public Policy,
Dr. Shaw is dedicated to promoting interdisciplinary research and engaging with community
stakeholders to address pressing social and political issues.
Dr. Jaclyn Bunch
Dr. Jaclyn Bunch is the Chair of the Department of Political Science and Criminal
Justice at the University of South Alabama. With a strong background in political
science, public administration, Dr. Bunch's research focuses on public policy analysis,
governance, intergovernmental relations, and its intersection with social and health
outcomes. As Co-Director of the Center for Public Policy, she guides initiatives that
align with the university's mission to advance research and teaching in public policy.
Her work emphasizes evidence-based policy solutions and fostering collaboration between
academic researchers and policymakers.
Meet our Research Associates
- Richard Menger, MD, MPA
Dr. Richard Menger is a fellowship-trained neurosurgeon and the Chief of Complex Spine Surgery at USA Health. He also serves as the Director of the USA Health Spine Institute and an Associate Professor of Neurosurgery at the University of South Alabama. Dr. Menger's expertise spans complex spinal reconstructions for spinal deformities in both pediatric and adult patients, as well as minimally invasive spinal procedures. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Menger is deeply involved in health policy, holding a Master of Public Administration (MPA) and contributing significantly to discussions on healthcare regulation, medical ethics, and the intersection of law and public health. His work has been recognized nationally, including being named to the North American Spine Society (NASS) SpineLine’s 20 under 40 list in 2019. Dr. Menger's interdisciplinary approach, combining clinical excellence with policy insight, positions him as a key contributor to the Center for Public Policy’s mission of advancing informed healthcare policies. - Samuel Bethel Ph.D., MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Dr. Samuel R. Bethel is an Assistant Professor of Social Work in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work at the University of South Alabama. He is a licensed clinical social worker with extensive research and practical experience in health and mental health social work, particularly focusing on integrating social care within healthcare services. Dr. Bethel’s recent research includes a process evaluation of social care programs in South Carolina’s largest healthcare system, paying close attention to service delivery in rural and underserved areas. His research and clinical interests span the implementation, evaluation, and optimization of social work on interprofessional healthcare teams, aiming to enhance holistic healthcare outcomes. In addition to his academic and research roles, Dr. Bethel has contributed significantly to social work education and mentorship. His published work covers a range of topics, including patient-centered outcomes in chronic kidney disease, health equity, and the role of social work within interprofessional education. His dedication to advancing social work's role in healthcare places him at the forefront of research aimed at bridging clinical practice and public health needs. - Katherine Bunch, MD, MBS
Dr. Katherine Bunch is a neurological surgery resident at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her clinical focus includes complex spinal procedures, healthcare policy, and equity. She brings a unique blend of clinical excellence and academic rigor to her role, having graduated with honors from the State University of New York Upstate Medical University and holding advanced degrees in Biomedical Sciences from Tufts University School of Medicine. Dr. Bunch is a member of the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, reflecting her commitment to medical excellence. Dr. Bunch’s research interests extend into the realm of healthcare policy, with a particular focus on improving access to spine care and addressing ethical challenges in the medical field. Her affiliation with the Center for Public Policy strengthens its healthcare policy initiatives, especially in the areas of spinal health and the integration of innovative medical practices into public health strategies. - Jonathan Powell, Ph.D. (ABD), MPA
Jonathan Powell is an epidemiological researcher and Ph.D. candidate at The Ohio State University's Division of Epidemiology. He has experience as a prehospital clinician, educator, and has recently completed a fellowship at the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT). At the NREMT, Dr. Powell participated in and led both quantitative and qualitative research studies aimed at describing and intervening to improve the health and stability of emergency medical services (EMS) clinicians and systems. At The Ohio State University, he worked to evaluate impacts of policy changes on EMS care delivery in addition to secondary analysis of randomized controlled trial resuscitation data collected in the prehospital scene. Dr. Powell is currently working as an Epidemiologist with ImageTrend, a software solutions company that provides data collection platforms for EMS, fire, hospital, and healthcare-related organizations. Through this position, Dr. Powell has access to vast amounts of local, state, and national EMS data that can be leveraged for research opportunities. His personal research surrounds inequities in the delivery of EMS care to marginalized groups and communities. Dr. Powell's approach combines rigorous analysis with applied public health solutions, underscoring the importance of community-level healthcare interventions and making him a valuable contributor to both academic research and actionable public health policies at the Center for Public Policy.
- Dalten Fox, Ph.D.
Dr. Dalten Fox is an emerging leader in environmental policy and public administration at the University of South Alabama. As a dedicated faculty member, Dr. Fox plays a crucial role in advancing the university’s mission to address pressing environmental challenges through research and policy development. His work focuses on sustainability, energy policy, and collaborative governance and social movements concerning environmental policy, areas critical to the Gulf Coast region and beyond. Dr. Fox is deeply involved in both academic and community initiatives, working closely with students, local governments, and organizations to promote sustainable practices and develop policies that enhance environmental resilience. His research not only contributes to the academic field but also has practical implications, providing innovative solutions to real-world environmental issues. Dr. Fox’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and public service makes him a vital asset to the Center for Public Policy and a key figure in the University of South Alabama’s efforts to lead in environmental stewardship and policy innovation.
- Katherine Meeker, Ph.D.
Dr. Katherine A. Meeker is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice at the University of South Alabama. She specializes in criminal justice with an expertise on institutional responses to gender-based sexual violence within criminal-legal, educational, and community settings. Dr. Meeker’s research critically examines how policies, practices, and interventions address and prevent gender-based sexual violence, with a focus on improving institutional effectiveness and survivor support. By integrating critical perspectives, Dr. Meeker evaluates the impact of existing frameworks and advocates for evidence-based reforms that promote safety, accountability, and equity. Their work aims to enhance institutional responses and foster environments that are supportive and responsive to the needs of survivors. At the University of South Alabama, Dr. Meeker plays a key role in both academic and community initiatives, contributing to the Center for Public Policy’s mission of advancing research-based policy solutions that address critical issues in criminal justice. Her dedication to bridging the gap between theory and practice makes her a valuable asset to both the university and the broader criminal justice community. - Alexis Rockwell, Ph.D.
Dr. Alexis Rockwell is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice at the University of South Alabama. She specializes in police culture, police policies, and the health and wellness of police officers. Dr. Rockwell’s research focuses on critical issues such as the impact of body-worn cameras, the use of force in law enforcement, and the physical fitness of police officers. Her work is distinguished by its practical implications for improving police practices and enhancing officer safety and well-being. Dr. Rockwell’s research is widely recognized for its contribution to understanding the dynamics within law enforcement agencies and the broader implications for public safety and community trust. She is actively involved in projects that aim to inform policy changes and improve the training and support systems for law enforcement personnel. Her commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and practical application makes her a valuable asset to both the university and the Center for Public Policy, where her expertise contributes to the development of evidence-based policies aimed at improving law enforcement practices and outcomes. - Corina Schulze, Ph.D.
Dr. Corina Schulze is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice at the University of South Alabama. She specializes in the intersection of gender, race, and criminal justice, with a particular focus on sexual violence, women in policing, and the broader impacts of identity on social and political outcomes. Dr. Schulze’s research is driven by a commitment to understanding and addressing the systemic inequalities that affect marginalized groups within the criminal justice system. With over a decade of teaching and research experience, Dr. Schulze has established herself as a leading voice in the field of criminal justice, contributing to both academic scholarship and public discourse. Her work has been instrumental in shaping policy discussions around gender and policing, and she is recognized for her ability to translate complex research findings into practical policy recommendations. Dr. Schulze is actively involved in collaborating with community organizations, working to create a more just and equitable society. At the University of South Alabama, Dr. Schulze plays a vital role in advancing the Center for Public Policy’s efforts to develop policies that address the needs of vulnerable populations.
Contact Information:
We welcome inquiries from individuals and organizations interested in our work or seeking collaboration opportunities.
Mailing Address:
Center for Public Policy
Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice
HUMB #226
University of South Alabama
Mobile, AL 36688-0002
Direct Contact:
Dr. Jaclyn Bunch, Chair
Office: HUMB #227
Phone: (251) 460-7161
Email: jbunch@southalabama.edu
Dr. Thomas Shaw
Office: HUMB #234
Phone: (251) 460-8025
Email: tshaw@southalabama.edu
Inquiries and Collaborations: For inquiries about research, consulting services, or collaboration opportunities, please contact us through the details provided above. We look forward to partnering with you to advance public policy solutions that make a real difference.