Steve Mumford

Why did you choose the Trachtenberg School?

I was looking for a doctoral program with specific expertise in program evaluation and based in the seat of the United States federal government. The Trachtenberg School is all this and more. It launched me on a career as a "pracademic" who can conduct research that matters to communities, starting even before my dissertation and continuing in everything I've done since. I've since moved away from Washington, DC, but my time and contacts there have laid the foundation for a fruitful career in the public and nonprofit sectors across the globe. 

Looking back, what are the most valuable skills, tools, or aha-moments you gained at Trachtenberg that you still rely on today?

During my time with Trachtenberg, I learned all the technical skills I need to conduct, analyze, and report high-quality research, both quantitative and qualitative. I also gained the theoretical knowledge to ask and address useful, relevant questions related to policy and administration. Above all, I developed interpersonal and relational skills to ensure that my work matters and is done in collaboration with others who can apply it to practice.

In what ways did the Trachtenberg community—whether professors, peers, or alumni—support or influence your career?

My colleagues at Trachtenberg have supported and opened doors for me to this day. My mentor, Professor Kathy Newcomer, has guided me through every step of my career, helping me publish research, gain a tenure-track position, and co-edit a research handbook in my field. I continue to connect with my peers around research projects and through professional associations and conferences. Fellow alumni contact me regularly for networking. It's a very supportive and engaged community that stays with you after graduation.