A new project at the University will connect family researchers with state policymakers to develop a more family-oriented approach when establishing governmental programs and policies.
“Dr. Randall Leite, an assistant professor of human development and family studies, is director of the new Family Impact Seminar Series project,” according to a University press release.
The basic goal of the Family Impact project is to have “family and child laws reflect our research. For example, what aspects of divorce make it difficult for kids to cope with?” Leite said.
Family researchers have answers to that question, and the project will put that information into the hands of lawmakers.
Leite expects the project to target welfare reform, education (especially standardized testing), divorce custody and child support issues, children’s health and nutrition, and the impact of poverty on children’s well-being.
As part of the project, Leite will represent the University in sponsoring “two seminars annually in the Columbus area for legislators and their staff, state agency directors and staff in the governor’s office. A Web site and brief written reports will also be offered,” according to the press release.
“The seminars will offer state lawmakers easy access to some of the best research in Ohio and the nation on timely policy issues,” Leite said.
Ohio’s first seminar will be held later in 2003. As the project gains momentum, Leite expects that some of his students will begin working on the project as part of their class requirements.
The Family Impact project originated in the mid-80s at the University of Wisconsin where the program was highly successful. Two years ago, they received a grant from Packard Industries, and the project has since expanded to 12 other states and the District of Columbia.
For Ohio, Dr. Thomas R. Chibucos, Director of Family and Consumer Sciences, was instrumental in getting the University accepted into the project.
“My view on the family impact seminar project is that it is a specific way to build the kind of collaborative partnerships that will ultimately serve both the university and the cause of children and families very well,” Chibucos said.
“In this case, the collaboration is between legislators and university faculty with relevant expertise, and it is well worth the effort,” Chibucos said.
Funding for the Ohio project will come from grants provided from private foundations and industries.
