Our Focus Areas
Tools and Resources
Dedicated to creating impactful social equity tools, RISE supports a broad array of stakeholders—from government agencies and nonprofits to educators and advocacy groups. Our tools are developed to assist in promoting equitable policies and addressing complex social challenges, ensuring every community member can thrive.
Wilder Digital Library & Collection
The Governor L. Douglas Wilder Digital Library & Collection is dedicated to preserving and sharing the legacy of Governor L. Douglas Wilder, the first African American elected Governor in U.S. history. This collaborative project between Virginia Union University and the Wilder School's Research Institute for Social Equity provides unparalleled access to historical materials, including digitized speeches, photographs, letters, and documents that capture Governor Wilder’s profound impact on public policy, leadership, and social equity. Featuring a museum-like site with curated exhibits and an archival platform for in-depth exploration, the library offers a transformative virtual experience that educates, inspires, and connects audiences to this historic legacy.
Annual Public Policy Polling
Three annual Public Policy Polls are generated in conjunction with members of the General Assembly to assess citizens’ views on policy issues facing the Commonwealth, with an emphasis on racial and equity impacts. Poll results from Virginians are used to better understand what the public thinks in key policy areas such as public safety, economic development, education, mental health and housing. The resulting snapshot gives policymakers insight on opinion throughout the Commonwealth, complementing the input they receive from their own constituents while also highlighting the varying results by race, socioeconomic status and region demographics. Poll results are shared back to the public, as well as with policymakers in the General Assembly and state government.
Resources
Helpful Links
- L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs
- ASPANET - American Society for Public Administration
- SPAA - School of Public Affairs and Administration
- APPAM - Association for Public Policy Analytics & Management
- USFCA - University of San Francisco School of Management
- ARNOVA - Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action
- NASPAA - The Global Standard in Public Service Education
Research & Analysis
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Tools & Resources
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