Amidu Kalokoh is a Doctoral Candidate in Public Policy and Administration at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Prior to doctoral studies, Kalokoh worked for the Office of the President of Sierra Leone, contributing to national and international efforts in security, peace, and development. Volunteer experience includes work with various nonprofit organizations focused on natural resource governance, human rights, disaster response, public health, and public safety.
Research interests span public policy, homeland security, emergency management, criminal justice, and governance. Current projects include the examination of emergency preparedness for vulnerable populations—such as correctional populations and coastal communities—along with studies on local emergency management capacity in the United States, money laundering, and terrorist financing. Research supports policies and programs that address hazard vulnerabilities, foster community resilience, and enhance public safety and justice.
As a researcher and active member of the academic community, Kalokoh serves as an author, reviewer, student leader, and mentor, demonstrating a strong commitment to the advancement of the field. Numerous awards and fellowships highlight this dedication, including the 2023 Development Advocate of the Year, 2024 Black History in the Making honoree, and 2024 Outstanding Public Policy and Administration Doctoral Student at VCU. Additional recognitions include being named a Bill Anderson Fund Fellow, ASPA Founders’ Fellow, Public Administration Theory Fellow, APPAM Equity and Inclusion Fellow, and a Coastal Hazard, Equity, Economic Prosperity, and Resilience Scholar.