Director’s Welcome

Welcome to the Policy School at Northeastern University!

For nearly two decades, the School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs has remained unwavering in its mission of advancing interdisciplinary research, offering policy-relevant professional training, and fostering community engagement. Built upon a foundation of interdisciplinary scholarship and experiential learning, we are dedicated to informing, innovating, and inspiring. Our faculty and students have reshaped the policy discourse, embracing challenges related to climate change, pollution, urban innovation, economic development, and equity and justice. Our School is a hub for doers and dreamers who think and act locally and globally.

Throughout its history, the School has embarked on a transformative journey, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of public policy and urban affairs. We are charting a path toward a future that transcends geographical boundaries, strengthens community connections, and ignites action. As Director, my vision for that future builds on three core values: Community, Communication, and Collaboration.

At the heart of our School is a vibrant and inclusive community. We seek to attract outstanding students by offering programs grounded in real-world challenges and experiential opportunities. Our graduates leave with the tools, networks, and experiences necessary for personal growth and meaningful employment. We are committed to building a community that reflects national diversity and embraces the multiculturalism inherent in Northeastern University’s global presence and identity. A strong sense of belonging and purpose permeates our School, ensuring that every individual—student, faculty, staff, or partner—feels valued and supported.

Clear and impactful communication is central to our success. Our scholarship is rigorous, accessible, and actionable, engaging audiences from neighborhoods to countries to the United Nations. Our curriculum is relevant in both local and global contexts, balancing sharp theoretical insights with practical applications that resonate in the real world. We also communicate the importance of our mission to potential partners, crafting compelling narratives that inspire investment and support for scholarships, research, and innovation.

Collaboration is essential to everything we do. Our School is uniquely positioned to foster interdisciplinary and cross-sector partnerships that address the critical issues of our time. We model collaboration in our work, setting an example for students to learn from and emulate. Together, we cultivate a culture where sharing knowledge, expertise, and perspectives leads to greater positive impact. Whether through research, teaching, or service, collaboration is the cornerstone of our approach, preparing our community to navigate and solve complex policy challenges.

These principles guide us as we strive to become a global leader in education, research, and impact in public policy and urban affairs. We aspire to cultivate changemakers who transcend boundaries, bridge disciplines, and unify concepts and actions from local neighborhoods to the global stage. We infuse social and racial justice into every facet of our teaching, research, campus relationships, and community engagement, holding ourselves accountable for the impact of our words and deeds. Our combined efforts bring us closer to a world that is just, resilient, and sustainable.

I invite you to explore our School further by reading our 2023-2024 Impact Report and to engage in online and on-campus discussions. Please sign up for our newsletter and connect with us.

Sincerely,

Maria Ivanova
Director, School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs

Northeastern University