Established to challenge popular assumptions and inform policymakers on issues of poverty and immigration
Who we are
The Poverty and Immigration Lab (PIL) functions as a collaborative hub for interdisciplinary projects and serves as a nexus for issues related to poverty and immigration. The PIL’s objective is to connect faculty members with research assistants who have demonstrated their excellence as diligent workers and who possess a strong desire to gain in-depth knowledge about poverty and immigration issues within a hands-on research environment.
Projects affiliated with the PIL:
- Measuring expertise of front-line workers: Increasing success through workers’ autonomy
Our Mission
At the Poverty and Immigration Lab (PIL), we are dedicated to fostering a dynamic learning environment that empowers students to explore, engage with, and contribute to cutting-edge research at the intersections of poverty and immigration. Rooted in a commitment to understanding and addressing the complex challenges faced by marginalized communities, our lab provides a collaborative platform where students and scholars come together to generate knowledge, insights, and solutions.
Guided by the principles of empathy, inquiry, and impact, our mission is to provide students with hands-on opportunities to delve into issues such as homelessness, economic disparity, and the multifaceted dimensions of immigration. Through close collaboration with accomplished professors and researchers who specialize in these domains, students gain a deep understanding of the lived experiences of individuals affected by these challenges.
By offering a space for inquiry-driven exploration, the PIL empowers students to critically analyze existing narratives, contribute to innovative research, and advocate for positive change. We believe that the fusion of rigorous academic inquiry with real-world engagement not only enriches students’ educational journey but also has the potential to drive meaningful transformation in the communities we serve.
At the PIL, we are dedicated to nurturing a community of compassionate scholars and change-makers who leverage their knowledge, skills, and insights to address these pressing issues. Together, we strive to create a more just, equitable, and inclusive society where the voices and experiences of those affected by poverty and immigration are both heard and valued.
Faculty Members
Curtis Smith – Founder and Director
Edward Cohen – Associate Director
Research Assistants
Palash Bhatt
Audrey Labadini
Henry Johnson
Stratis Awad
Gordon Jackson
Avery Perry
Mickey Yeh