Policy Innovation Lab
Rooted in a commitment to Washington DC, the Policy Innovation Lab is a special initiative of the McCourt School of Public Policy that offers hands-on experiences to help students develop the skills to create policy that serves and responds to the needs of communities.
The Lab’s work is motivated by connections between public policy and the people and groups it is aimed to serve. “Putting people in policy” is our mantra.
As part of our mission, we develop relationships and strategic partnerships with local organizations and community members in Wards 7 and 8 – DC’s most marginalized and structurally oppressed communities. Currently, we have five teams dedicated to projects spanning equitable development, racial equity in the workforce, food insecurity, violence prevention, and affordable housing. Our current project partners include; DC Appleseed, Anacostia Business Improvement District (BID), DC Office of Planning and the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) and Office of DC At-Large Councilmember, Robert White.
Our Vision, Mission, and Values
We envision a city where every individual has equal opportunity to learn, grow, and lead a fulfilling life.
Our Work
We are working to advance social and economic justice through a racial equity lens. Our work centers around respect for communities, integrity, humility, and innovation.
Our Partners
The Policy Innovation Lab works with multiple partners in Wards 7 and 8 and throughout the city.
Our Projects
As part of our mission, we develop relationships and strategic partnerships with local organizations and community members in Wards 7 & 8.
Lab Calendar
Interested in joining our team? Check out this calendar of engaging events held by the Policy Innovation Lab.
A Testimonial
Professor Jasmine Tyler is the Executive Director of the Policy Innovation Lab and an Associate Professor of the Practice at the McCourt School. Professor Tyler is a DMV (VA) native with extensive experience working on federal and local policy issues ranging from criminal justice, public health, immigration, and national security. Personally and professionally, she practices abolition and harm reduction, proximity and truth-telling, as well as mindfulness and humor.
