Furman Sociology

My current research focuses on "evaluation research", that is, using sociological research methods to evaluate the effectiveness of existing programs. I have over ten years of experience conducting evaluations of programs designed to increase access to health care. Here are some examples:

2004. Evaluation of the "Healthy Connections Program." United Way of Greenville County. Implemented a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the “Healthy Connections Program.” Organized data base of clients serviced by the program. Surveyed current and past participants. Gathered community wide data on emergency room use and Medicaid enrollment. Made recommendations to improve forms used in the program. Assisted in applying for additional grant funding.

2000. Evaluation of the "Babies and You Prenatal Outreach Program." March of Dimes, Greenville, SC. Implemented a qualitative analysis of “Babies and You” a prenatal health promotion program. Attended classes and coordinating meetings. Also surveyed (over the phone and via mail) past participates of the program. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.

1999. Evaluation of the "Family Violence Intervention Program." Compass of Carolina, Greenville, SC. Implemented a qualitative analysis of the Family Violence Intervention Program. Attended classes for victims and perpetrators. Observed domestic violence cases in Family Court. Input and analyzed three years of exit surveys completed by program participants. Provide summary report to agency along with recommendations for a revised exit survey.

I also do a good amount of work with the United Way, again using my sociology skills in a real world environment with the hope of improving the community I live in. Here area a few examples of some of the activities I'm involved with:

2006-present. Outcomes Measurement Consultant. United Way of Greenville County. Served as a one-on-one consultant for individual programs funded by the United Way. Assisted in developing and refining Logic Model and Outcome Measurement Plan for funding proposals. Logic Models outline goals and objectives of programs as well as resources used to achieve these goals. Outcome Measurement Plans define how program results will be measured, gathered, and analyze to assess the efficacy of programs.

2004. Volunteer Research Consultant. Free Medical Clinic, Greenville, SC. Assisted in evaluating efficacy of program to ensure continual funding by the United Way. Provided assistance with “outcomes measurement”- research designed to measure the effectiveness of existing programs.