The Evaluation Lab is thrilled to announce that Audrey Cooper is officially the Lab’s new Director! Read about her work in evaluation and her plans for the future of the Eval Lab:

 How did you get into doing evaluation work?

I had this experience where I was working as a Clinical Quality Nurse at the New Mexico Primary Care Association, and my wonderful and thoughtful supervisor—Eileen Goode—asked me to scope out the Eval Lab Expo to see if our organization would be a good fit for the fellowship program. I attended the Expo, convinced Eileen that it was a great fit, and asked if I could apply to the fellowship. Melissa Binder, the Eval Lab Director at the time, took a chance on me and my unconventional pitch. From there, I volunteered for every opportunity and paid assistantship I could with the Lab taking on responsibilities in coordinating the Summer Institute, serving as a Team Lead, presenting as a panelist and guest lecturer, taking the position of Associate Director, and finally becoming the Director. I'm a great example of grow-your-own.

 What excites you most about working with the Eval Lab?

This is a tough question because I love many aspects of the Lab. I'd say what excites me most is the work of teacher and guide. Helping organizations and fellows navigate the evaluation process for the purpose of serving New Mexicans and one another is a real thrill. Mutual liberation—for me the idea that my whole self is well if I am helping your whole self to be well and vice versa and that those notions are tied closely together—is how I think of my role in the Lab and in life.

What does the future of the Eval Lab look like?

I'd like to see the Lab continue to practice what it preaches, to center mission time and its core values. I'd like to expand the Senior Fellowship model to provide additional services learning opportunities for graduate students wanting applied experience. I'd also like to see the Lab create an Evaluation and Policy Graduate Certificate. I'd like us to continue our work as a service project of UNM, a trustworthy, kind, and knowledgeable community partner for nonprofits and government entities.