Dear Readers,

It has been an exciting 9 months for me, learning and growing (and improving!) with the Improve Group. As I move on to the next step in my career with United Way, it is a great time to reflect on what I have learned. Leah has an amazing talent for juggling multiple interesting and complex projects, which has made my time here a fascinating view into the world of program evaluation. The highlight of the experience was visiting the Q Center, outside of Chicago, IL, meeting with other Safe Schools/Healthy Students Consortia researchers. The conference really made the evaluation come alive, seeing several other similar research projects and the significance of how this grant program impacts peoples lives around the country. What seemed like a simple idea – Collaboration helps to get the job done – became a really powerful and important concept that requires support and advocacy from those who believe in its potential. Complex business relationships which discourage collaboration, or simple lack of relationships can prevent ultimate solutions from being formed. Future research on collaboration will yield answers to how these partnerships can be encouraged, and how these partnerships can be successful. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work with the Improve Group, and with RTI on this exciting and inspiring project. My hope is that the Improve Group continues to grow and acquire grants that support this kind of inspiring work which helps and impacts people’s lives. Staff at the Improve Group truly are passionate about what they do and what I have learned in my time here will greatly influence my future career in program evaluation. Thanks so much to everyone!

Nathan Salzl