OCS Conference Funding Submission

Event Photo:

Photo with APPAM President Kosali Simon during the 2025 Equity & Inclusion Fellowship evening reception.

First official day of the conference, standing at the APPAM ‘At-a-Glance’ schedule board

After the Equity & Inclusion Fellowship Award Luncheon, standing beneath my headshot with my certificate.

Name: Maribel Fernandez

Degree Program: MPA IN HEALTH POLICY & MANAGEMENT

Specialization: HPM-Health Services Management

Conference Host Organization/Institution: Association for Public Policy and Management

Conference/Competition Name: APPAM 47th Annual Fall Research Conference

Conference Term: Fall Conference Start Date: 2025-11-12 Conference End Date: 2025-11-15

What were your takeaways from this conference/case competition?
The APPAM conference showcased how powerful and rigorous the research side of public policy and public service can be. I was struck by the size and depth of the organization, the high quality of the panels, and the impressive range of poster presentations. It was inspiring to see so many researchers tackling issues that directly affect communities. I also found the networking opportunities invaluable—I met students, faculty, and practitioners who were generous with their insights and encouragement. Overall, the conference opened my eyes to the vibrancy and impact of policy research.

How will your participation in this conference/case competition support your professional development?
Attending APPAM broadened my understanding of the research landscape and affirmed that I want to pursue a PhD in the future. Coming from the management and operations side of public service, it was empowering to feel welcomed and encouraged by scholars and practitioners. This experience strengthened my confidence that I can bridge practice and research. The exposure to cutting-edge policy work also clarified how research can shape equity, health policy, and public management—areas closely aligned with my long-term goals. Overall, the conference expanded my professional vision and solidified my academic aspirations.

What are some next steps or action items this conference/case competition inspired?
My next steps include researching PhD programs in public policy or public management, especially those with strong applied research and health policy components. I plan to stay connected with the scholars I met and explore opportunities to engage with APPAM throughout the year. I also want to look for ways to participate in future conferences, submit work, or collaborate on research projects. Finally, I’m exploring potential mentorship and fellowship opportunities that can support my transition from practitioner to researcher.

What are some tips or best practices that you would like to share with other Wagner students who attend a conference/case competition?
Be open and curious—attend sessions outside your usual focus area to discover new interests. Don’t hesitate to introduce yourself; people at conferences are genuinely willing to connect and share advice. Make time for poster sessions, which are great for one-on-one conversations. Build in breaks to avoid burnout, especially at large conferences. Finally, approach the experience with a learner’s mindset. Conferences like APPAM can open unexpected doors, expand your network, and inspire new academic or professional pathways.

Wagner Areas of Impact: Cities, Education, Finance, Government, Health, Housing, Inequality, Race, and Poverty, International Development, Leadership, Nonprofits, Social Innovation, Transportation