UNO Center for Public Affairs Research is pleased to present its 34th annual professional development data series with three virtual events. CPAR Presents: A Data and Research Series for Community Impact is for anyone who uses — or wants to use — data to understand and affect change in our communities.
- Part One | Thursday, August 24, 2023 from 9 A.M.-12:15 P.M. | Live Zoom Webinar or Recording (Live registration is closed.)
- Part Two | Thursday, September 28, 2023 from 9 A.M.-12:15 P.M. | Live Zoom Webinar or Recording
- Part Three | Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 45 minute Live Zoom Webinar Interactive Small Group Consultations (9 A.M., 10 A.M., 1 P.M., 2 P.M.)
- Registration is open!
- Download a printable information sheet.
Agenda
Part One | August 24, 2023 | 9 A.M.-12:15 P.M. (CDT) | Virtual Zoom Webinar
Part One is designed to empower government and nonprofit professionals to access, analyze, and disseminate valuable insights from the U.S. Census Bureau.
9-10:45 A.M. – Unlocking Insights: Accessing and Applying Census Data to Impact Your Community
In the first session, tailored to beginners, experts will guide you through accessing census data, equipping you with the necessary skills to harness its power for informed decision-making. This session will offer tips and tricks to benefit more advanced users.
Presenters:
- Carol Miller, data dissemination specialist, U.S. Census Bureau
- Josie Gatti Schafer, Ph.D., director, UNO Center for Public Affairs Research
Highlights from the session include:
- Exploring Census Resources: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the wide array of resources offered by the U.S. Census Bureau. Learn about the various data sets available and their relevance to your work in the government and nonprofit sectors.
- Accessing Census Data: Navigate the platforms provided by the U.S. Census Bureau and discover how to access the demographic and socio-economic data that matters most to your organization. We'll guide you through the process, ensuring you can retrieve the insights you need effortlessly.
Participants in the LIVE session will have the opportunity to engage in a hands-on workshop to explore data.census.gov, and interact with experienced census data users to practice and grow your skills with census data.
10:45-11 A.M. – Break
11 A.M.-12:15 P.M. – Why so many dashboards? Unlocking the Power of Data Dashboards
Join us for a panel session that explores the value of data dashboards as a versatile tool for sharing data. Discover how data dashboards simplify complex information into actionable visual insights and the many other reasons that dashboards are becoming a common tool for sharing data.
Panelists:
- Jeff Armitage, epidemiology surveillance coordinator, Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
- Shonna Dorsey, executive director, Nebraska Tech Collaborative
- Bryce Jones, EDA data analyst, Rural Opportunity Office, Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade
- Cassandra Dorius, Ph.D., co-director, Iowa's Integrated Data System for Decision-Making (I2D2)
Highlights from the panel session include:
- Understanding Data Dashboards: Learn about the components and benefits of data dashboards for visualizing and presenting complex information.
- Best Practices and Case Studies: Gain insights from experts on effective dashboard design principles and real-world examples of successful implementations.
Part Two | Thursday, September 28, 2023 | 9 A.M.-12:15 P.M. (CDT) | Virtual Zoom Webinar
Take your understanding of census data to the next level in Part Two of our professional development series. Building upon the foundational knowledge gained in Part One, this session will focus on the practical application of census data, including the annual session on demographic and workforce trends in Nebraska and the region, and an in-depth exploration into how to visualize and communicate data.
Attend LIVE to interact with the presenters and panelists in real-time, allowing you to ask questions, seek clarification, and engage in meaningful discussions. Benefit from the collective expertise and experiences of the presenters.
9-10:45 A.M. – Decoding Nebraska: State and Local Trends in Demographics, Workforce, and Socio-Economics
Join us for an in-depth session decoding the current state and local trends in Nebraska. Gain valuable insights into demographics, workforce dynamics, and socio-economic factors shaping Nebraska's communities.
Presenters:
- Allison Shafer, supervisory geographer, Geography Division, U.S. Census Bureau
- Josie Gatti Schafer, Ph.D., director, UNO Center for Public Affairs Research
Highlights from the session include:
- Demographic Trends: Explore trends including population growth, age distribution, ethnic diversity, and migration patterns in Nebraska.
- Workforce Dynamics: Analyze employment rates, industry and occupation shifts, skills demand, and labor market dynamics.
- Socio-Economic Factors: Examine income disparities, poverty rates, educational attainment, healthcare access, and more.
- Data Analysis and Visualization: Learn techniques for analyzing and visualizing some of these state and local trends using census data.
10:45-11 A.M. – Break
11 A.M.-12:15 P.M. – Creating Meaningful Data Visualization and Communications: Embracing Diverse Perspectives for Impactful Insights
Join an expert panel as they share insights and diverse perspectives in crafting impactful data communications strategies.
Panelists:
- Cammy Watkins, executive director, Inclusive Communities
- Monica Miles-Steffens, assistant director, UNO Juvenile Justice Institute
- Carrie Malek-Madani, director of marketing and communications, Nebraska Community Foundation
- Cristián Doña-Reveco, Ph.D., associate professor of Sociology, UNO Department of Sociology and Anthropology, and director, UNO Office for Latino/Latin American Studies (OLLAS)
Highlights from the panel session include:
- Embracing Diversity in Visualization: Discover how diverse perspectives enrich data storytelling.
- Showcasing Real-World Examples: Explore different techniques through captivating real examples.
- Practical Tips and Best Practices: Gain actionable advice for creating impactful data communications.
Part Three | Thursday, October 26, 2023 | 9 A.M., 10 A.M., 1 P.M., 2 P.M. (CDT) | Virtual Zoom Webinar
For the first time ever, we are excited to offer four unique, small group consulting sessions, to address your specific data questions and needs. This session has been designed based on feedback from previous participants who expressed a desire to enhance their Data and Research Series experience by consulting topical experts on real projects that matter to them.
During the session, you will have the opportunity to participate in small group Zoom consultations (we expect fewer than 10 participants in each session) led by expert consultants. The consultants will be available to guide you through your data-related challenges, offer insights, and provide practical advice on your projects. Whether you have specific questions, need assistance with data analysis, or require guidance on data visualization, we are here to support you.
9-9:45 A.M. – Survey Research
Considering conducting your own survey? Have survey data and want feedback on best ways to show or apply the data? Attend this session to receive feedback on best practices in conducting and analyzing original surveys.
10-10:45 A.M. – Qualitative Research
Whether you are embarking on a new qualitative research project or seeking to optimize your current approach, this consulting session offers valuable expertise and insights.
1-1:45 P.M. – Data Visualization
As discussed in Part One of the series, there is no one best way to visualize data; however, brainstorming with a group of professionals may be just what you need to find the most impactful means to communicate your data. Bring your questions and current projects and get the feedback you need.
2-2:45 P.M. – Common Statistical Procedures
You asked and we answered – everyone wants to learn more about common statistical procedures to summarize data. Attend this session to ask all your questions about common ways to statistically analyze your data.
Registration
Part One recording and Part Two live Zoom webinar - $125. (Registration is non-refundable because you will receive recordings and access to materials.) Deadline to register is Friday, September 22, 2023.
Part One and Part Two recordings only - $100.
Part Three EACH live Zoom webinar topical session - $120. (These sessions will NOT be recorded.)
Recordings for Part One and Part Two will be emailed to you approximately one week after each live Zoom webinar session.
Presenters
Presenter Photo | Presenter Name, Title, Place of Work | Presenter Biography |
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Carol Miller Data Dissemination Specialist U.S. Census Bureau |
Miller has worked with the U.S. Census Bureau since 2008, serving in two decennial operations and the Denver Regional Office. She joined Data Dissemination in 2014 and has conducted events, presentations, and trainings that assist users in accessing Census Bureau data products for decision making, planning, grant writing, and business development. |
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Josie Gatti Schafer, Ph.D. Director UNO Center for Public Affairs Research |
Schafer joined the University of Nebraska at Omaha as the Director of the Center for Public Affairs Research in 2018. She joined the Center for Public Affairs Research because of its strong history and positioning as the go-to source for expert data and analysis to inform state and local policy and public and non-profit management in Nebraska. Recent projects lead by Schafer include the Entrepreneurship in Nebraska report, data and analysis for the UNO Workforce Development Taskforce, the Nebraska Community Foundation Youth Survey, policy analyses for the Planning Committee of the Nebraska State Legislature, and serves as principal investigator of the Nebraska Rural Transit Project for UNO. |
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Jeff Armitage Epidemiology Surveillance Coordinator Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services |
Armitage's more than 20-year career at DHHS has focused on epidemiology, health surveillance, health planning and evaluation, data management, and health informatics. Currently, he serves as lead for Nebraska Public Health Atlas, the new data visualization platform within the Division of Public Health. Jeff also oversees the Nebraska Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), an adult telephone health survey administered each year in the state. |
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Shonna Dorsey, M.S. Executive Director Nebraska Tech Collaborative |
Dorsey is an Omaha native who holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in Management Information Systems from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Her career includes roles as a startup co-founder, nonprofit VP, business analyst, project manager, consultant, help desk representative, and IT intern. Shonna has earned awards including: Excellence in Community Service (National Daughters of the American Revolution), Changemaker (Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals), Women in Technology (InformationWeek), Ten Outstanding Young Omahans (Omaha Jaycees), Tech Community Builder of the Year (AIM Institute) and 40 Under 40 (Midlands Business Journal). |
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Bryce Jones, M.A. EDA Data Analyst, Rural Opportunity Office Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade |
Jones received his masters of economics from the University of Denver. Originally from Idaho, Jones knew that he wanted to eventually work in the public sector, specifically under the direction of the state or federal government, and found courses in econometrics, advanced microeconomics, growth technology and economic policy complementary to his long-term professional goals. As a data analyst with the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade Jones travels to rural areas of Colorado to meet with regional teams and also engages with residents as he collects and analyzes demographic, socio-economic and business development trends across Colorado’s 54 rural counties. He then transforms this data into critical information used to make larger structural decisions about how to allocate funding and other government resources to these communities. |
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Cassandra "Cass" Dorius, Ph.D. Co-Director Iowa's Integrated Data System for Decision-Making (I2D2) |
Dorius is an associate professor of human development and family studies at Iowa State University. Her research focuses on translating scholarship into practice through a broad range of state and national collaborations centered on data quality, community outreach, and evidence-based policy-making. Dorius is a founding co-director of the Public Science Collaborative, Iowa’s Integrated Data System for Decision-Making (I2D2), and Iowa State’s Data Science for the Public Good program. Across these efforts, she works with leaders from local, state, and federal agencies to advance policies that improve the lives of vulnerable children and their families. |
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Allison Shafer Supervisory Geographer Geography Division, U.S. Census Bureau |
Shafer is a supervisory geographer in the Statistical Areas and Boundaries Branch in the Geography Division at the U.S. Census Bureau. She has experience in both the corporate world and government sector and has spent the last seven years of her career in the Geography Division working on many facets of the division’s work. This includes supporting and leading geographic partnership programs including outreach and production; contributing to the Geospatial Frames team; and most recently, leading a team producing and maintaining the Census Bureau’s statistical areas and boundaries and managing geospatial metadata compliance efforts. She is passionate about the accuracy, availability, and openness of data. She holds a Master of Science in Data Science and a Bachelor of Science in Geography/GIS with a minor in Anthropology. |
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Camellia 'Cammy' Watkins Executive Director Inclusive Communities |
Watkins is an Omaha native who graduated from Omaha South High School. She received a B.A. from Cornell College in Psychology and Vocal Performance. Watkins has 15 years of experience working with not-for-profit organizations ranging from environmental activism to performing arts administration. The opportunity to work with many different facets of the not-for-profit world have provided her with vast insights into the business needs of organizations. In her role as executive director at Inclusive Communities she utilizes her passions for promoting social justice, community building, and organizational development to facilitate dialogues within the business community around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. |
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Monica Miles-Steffens Assistant Director UNO Juvenile Justice Institute |
Miles-Steffens is the assistant director at the Juvenile Justice Institute at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. She has over 20 years of experience in juvenile justice direct service, non-profit and government positions. She has worked extensively with grants, community planning, training, and program implementation. She has worked at the local, state, and national level to develop policy, training, and services for juvenile justice programs and reform efforts. She has served on numerous state juvenile justice committees and is a Leadership Lincoln Alumni. She is a trained mediator and restorative justice facilitator. She has a passion for helping individuals and organizations realize their full leadership potential. |
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Carrie Malek-Madani Director of Marketing and Communications Nebraska Community Foundation |
Malek-Madani joined Nebraska Community Foundation in February 2017. She is responsible for developing and implementing NCF’s communications and marketing goals and strategies to build awareness and support for NCF and its affiliated funds. She creates and oversees the production of NCF’s publications, advertising, social media and video production. She also assists NCF’s affiliated funds located across the state with press releases, donor stories, fundraising letters and other marketing tools. She holds a bachelor’s degree in communication: media management, and a master’s degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Journalism & Mass Communications in integrated media communications. She is a member of the National Communication Honors Society, Lambda Pi Eta. |
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Cristián Doña-Reveco, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Sociology UNO Department of Sociology and Anthropology Director UNO Office of Latino/Latin American Studies (OLLAS) |
Doña-Reveco holds a Ph.D. in Sociology and History and an M.A. in Sociology from Michigan State University, an M.A. in Political Sciences with a concentration in International Relations from the Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, and bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Universidad de Chile. He is currently associate professor of Sociology and director of the Office for Latino/Latin American Studies (OLLAS) at the University of Nebraska at Omaha. His research interests are on migration decisions and migration policy in the Southern Cone of America (Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay). At OLLAS, he uses life stories to analyze the life experiences and opportunities of Latina head of households in Omaha. He is also studying the perceptions and representations of Latino/a immigrants in Nebraska newspapers and the attitudes toward immigrants in this state. He has published book chapters and articles on international migration, exile, and memory among other themes. He teaches courses on international migration and on Latin American Sociology. |
Questions? Contact unocpar@unomaha.edu or 402.554.7533.
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