Dr. Richard D. Young<\/a>, the lab is committed to embedding in our students’ the spirit of public service and passionate inquiry, while encouraging them to be active contributors to the production and dissemination of knowledge. Through partnerships with scholars, advocates, and civic organizations, we strive to advance a deeper understanding of Arizona\u2019s emerging communities.<\/p>\nOur Mission and Goals<\/h2>\n
Our mission is to be the central hub in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences where motivated undergraduate students develop their quantitative and qualitative research skills with rigorous hand–on training. We respond to two growing challenges at NAU, the emphasis of the scholar–teacher model of education, and the growing financial pressures students face to assess the value of their education as a return on investment (ROI). Our lab is inspired by the University’s commitment to providing students with transformational experiences while giving them opportunities to be 100% career-ready when they graduate.\u00a0 We aim to meet the challenges of today\u2019s realities without losing sight of the traditional purpose of public education in the United States: fostering in our students the values of civic responsibility, intellectual growth, and the democratization of leadership.<\/p>\n
Preparing Students for the Future<\/h2>\n
We seek community partners<\/a> who contribute to research that serves the public good and helps shape future leaders of Arizona. As an engine of opportunity, vehicle of economic mobility, and driver of public impact, Northern Arizona University strives to transform Arizona\u2019s economic, social, and political landscape through skill development, career preparation, and community building.<\/p>\n\n\n