Since launching in 2016, The Youth Policy Lab (YPL) at the University of Michigan has helped community and government agencies make informed, impactful policy and program decisions. The most recent annual report shares remarkable growth and expansion supporting this mission.
"Our growth is not just about expanding our team or programs but deepening our impact—whether that is through our research, strategic partnerships, or educational opportunities—we aim to make a tangible difference," said Carrie Auster Hammerman, YPL’s director of strategic partnerships.
This year, Megan Foster Friedman stepped into the role of managing director, and Carrie Hammerman took on the newly created role of director of strategic partnerships. YPL also developed a new strategic plan, and refreshed its mission, vision, values, and strategic goals, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact.
Research and program highlights:
- ASPIRE (Applied Social Policy Internship and Research Experience) - YPL’s summer research and policy pipeline program expanded to include additional students from Spelman College, and now Morehouse College. Rising juniors and seniors gain an understanding of the types of applied questions social scientists pursue, the methods researchers use to answer these questions, and how research can influence policy, improve the delivery of services, and, ultimately, improve the lives of people.
- YPL’s High 5s Program Sparks Joy and Enthusiasm for Math in Young Children - The High 5s Program—an initiative designed to improve kindergarten math—has demonstrated significant success and is now an integral part of New York City's Next Generation Community Schools pilot.
- Research impact: Supporting Youth Mental Health - Schools, alongside families, play a crucial role in identifying and supporting students in need. YPL has been actively researching and analyzing various tools and trainings to help education decision-makers understand what is effective, ensuring optimal use of mental health resources to support students.
- Research impact: Improving Michigan’s Maternal and Infant Health - Through long-term partnerships, YPL continues evaluation and research to help state agencies and the medical community understand ways to support mothers and infants in Michigan. For example, YPL’s evaluation of Michigan’s Maternal Infant Health Program Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies pilot helped inform a successful effort to include funding in the 2024-2025 state budget to expand enhanced services to more than 60 MIHP agencies.
Research impact: Strengthening Michigan’s Talent Pipeline - YPL has identified disparities in career and technical education (CTE) access for Michigan high school students and has worked with state and local administrators to influence future CTE policies.
About the Youth Policy Lab
The Youth Policy Lab, a joint program of the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy and the Institute for Social Research, envisions a world where partner-driven research drives positive social change. YPL's mission is to inform public policy decisions by analyzing data and evaluating programs to help our partners answer their most pressing questions. Learn more at: youthpolicylab.umich.edu
