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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.

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Our Vision, Mission, and Values

We envision a city where every individual has equal opportunity to learn, grow, and lead a fulfilling life.

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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.

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Our Partners

The Policy Innovation Lab works with multiple partners in Wards 7 and 8 and throughout the city.

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Our Projects

As part of our mission, we develop relationships and strategic partnerships with local organizations and community members in Wards 7 & 8.

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Lab Calendar

Check out the Lab’s current and past calendars or year in review slideshow to get a sense of the Policy Innovation Lab.

A Testimonial

Jasmine Tyler Headshot

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.

Policy Innovation Lab logo - image used as entry to video link

Policy Innovation Lab News

The Policy Innovation Lab hosted the launch of Counties for Guaranteed Income on Feb 12, 2023 featuring Former Sacramento Mayor Michael Tubbs and President of the Cook County Board of…