OCS Conference Funding Submission

Event Photo:

Prof. Judy Pryor Ramirez, organizer and moderator of the panel, with student panelists from NYU Wagner.

Prof. Judy Pryor Ramirez, organizer and moderator of the panel, with student panelists from NYU Wagner and Kean University.

Name: Paola Gonzalez

Degree Program: MPA IN PUBLIC & NONPROFIT MANAGEMENT & POLICY

Specialization: HPM-Health Policy Analysis

Conference Host Organization/Institution: Kean University

Conference/Competition Name: Northeast Conference on Public Administration (NECoPa 2025)

Conference Term: Fall Conference Start Date: 2025-11-07 Conference End Date: 2025-11-08

What were your takeaways from this conference/case competition?
One of the most enlightening parts was hearing how students in architecture and students in policy approached participatory methods in their own fields. Even with different tools we were navigating the same questions around power sharing and accountability. It reminded me that this work is not tied to one discipline but to a way of showing up with communities. I also realized how much learning happens in the informal moments where people are relaxed enough to be honest. It pushed me to think more intentionally about how I explain and practice CBPAR beyond our project at POTS.

How will your participation in this conference/case competition support your professional development?
Participating strengthened my ability to communicate the value of participatory work in a clear and grounded way to people outside my field. It helped me practice explaining not just what we did but why it matters for public service and ethical practice. I also had the chance to connect with students and professionals who share similar commitments to community rooted work which was energizing. Building those relationships is important for my professional path since so much of what I do depends on collaboration and learning from people who approach community engagement from different perspectives.

What are some next steps or action items this conference/case competition inspired?
I want to apply what I learned to other parts of my academic and professional work, not just research. The panel reminded me to keep asking how power is shared in any project and how purpose guides method. Another next step is staying connected with the other panelists since we had good conversations about linking our topics and supporting each other’s work. I also realized I should be less hesitant to reach out and ask questions. Talking to panelists after the session was one of the best ways to build connections with people who think similarly.

What are some tips or best practices that you would like to share with other Wagner students who attend a conference/case competition?
Go in ready to listen and learn rather than perform. The most meaningful insights in conference and other similar settings often come from informal conversations before and after activities. Do not hesitate to ask questions or approach panelists afterward since they are usually the best people to connect with if you want to build relationships with others who care about the same work. If presenting, be clear about your project’s purpose and limitations. Showing humility resonates most. Its important to stay grounded in your experience and what you learned rather than trying to sound polished or perfect.

Wagner Areas of Impact: Education, Government, Inequality, Race, and Poverty, Leadership, Nonprofits, Social Innovation