Public Policy Associates

06/05/2026

We are thrilled to share a new publication co-authored by our team! In the latest issue of the International Journal of Special Education, our Research Associate II, Calandra Reichel, is the lead author of an insightful new paper, "From Isolation to Influence: Examining the Impact of a Statewide Virtual Professional Learning Community on Special Education Professionals."

This research evaluates the meaningful impact of virtual Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) within The MITTIN Project—a virtual learning library designed to strengthen independent living skills for students with moderate-to-severe disabilities.

By analyzing experiences from the first two cohorts, Callie and her co-authors demonstrate how well-designed virtual PLCs expand professional networks, boost educator self-efficacy, and open new leadership pathways, while directly improving student outcomes.

Public Policy Associates is incredibly proud of our close, ongoing partnership with MITTIN and MAASE as we work together to support special education professionals and the communities they serve.

Read the full open-access article here: https://internationalsped.com/index.php/ijse/article/view/2787

06/04/2026

Yesterday there was a University of Michigan graduate student visit to the PPA’s offices. A panel discussion was hosted by members of the PPA staff. PPA also did a case study with the students about defining research questions and methods for a fictional client.

"For many of us, career paths fresh out of graduate school are not entirely clear, and we've made our way based on a strong educational foundation and skill sets,” said PPA COO Colleen Graber, “Hosting interns and student groups like this at PPA help young professionals to see the range of possibilities open to them as they make their journeys."

06/03/2026

From Social Work Intern to Research Associate! We are excited to welcome Edgar S. Jaimes-Bautista to the Public Policy Associates team this summer. Edgar recently completed his field placement with us, demonstrating incredible dedication and insight. We wish to see him excel in this new role and continue making a meaningful impact through our research. Welcome aboard, Edgar.

06/01/2026

The latest PPA eNewsletter is out! In this issue, we celebrate our team, interview our new graphic design associate, share images from Mackinac Policy Conference and present a new report on food security and child care. We hope you enjoy this issue! https://mailchi.mp/publicpolicy/may26

05/28/2026

For the last few years at the Mackinac Policy Conference, PPA has hosted an event on Wednesday night at the Mission Point Resort. This year was an opportunity to catch up with former PPA CEOs- Sam Singh and Paul Elam, PhD! Some initial images from the event.


Detroit Regional Chamber

05/27/2026

Day 1 Update from CSO Dan Quinn, Ph.D.:

-Took part in a run sponsored by Detroit Regional Chamber

-Spoke with Dr. Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, President of Oakland University

-Attended events with both Pete Buttigieg and Gary Sinise

05/27/2026

Are you attending this year? Our own CEO Rob Fowler and CSO Dan Quinn, Ph.D. are there and would love to catch up. Let's make a difference for Michigan!

Detroit Regional Chamber

05/22/2026

Are you planning to attend the Mackinac Policy Conference? PPA's Rob Fowler and Dan Quinn will be attending. If you’re planning to attend too, don’t be shy, come say hello! We’re excited to connect and would love to hear from you!

Detroit Regional Chamber

05/21/2026

For the past six years, PPA has partnered with Project SEARCH Michigan, creating valuable work-based employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Learn how this national model is building workforce growth and making a difference in participants' lives.

At Project SEARCH, students learn what jobs they do and don’t like. They also get support from peers, instructors and employers. Independence and employment are the goals.

05/19/2026

Just announced- Michigan Business Leaders Take on Child Care in New Webinar Series. Free, four-part webinar series will provide practical strategies to support working families, improve retention, and strengthen workforce stability.

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MILEAP/bulletins/417d83d