AEA's 6,300 members worldwide represent a range of backgrounds, specialties and interest areas. Join us as we profile a different member each month via our Questions and Answers column. This month's profile spotlights Leah Goldstein Moses, who interfaces with AEA most specifically through her association with a local affiliate. Name, Affiliation: Leah Goldstein Moses, President/CEO, The Improve Group. Member of Minnesota Evaluation Association and AEA
Degrees: Masters of Urban and Regional Planning with a concentration in evaluation, research and analysis methods (Humphrey Institute of Public Affairs, University of Minnesota)
Years in the Evaluation Field: 11
Joined AEA: 2005
AEA Leadership Includes: Past Communications Chair, MNEA
Why do you belong to AEA?
"AEA gives me the opportunity to learn from my colleagues. As an evaluation generalist, I am constantly "borrowing" methods used in one field (education, health, corrections, arts, technology) for use in another field. I love the chance to learn from specialists as well as problem-solve with other generalists. The Evaluation Consulting TIG has been invaluable, too, for everything from finding a great IRB to which recorders work best in focus groups."
Why do you choose to work in the field of evaluation?
"I love learning. Evaluation gives me the opportunity to learn something new every day, and to help others learn, too. When working with my clients (most of whom are not evaluators) I call myself an "evaluation cheerleader" - really, everyone has evaluative skills, and if their confidence and skills grow, they can benefit their organization."
What's the most memorable or meaningful evaluation that you have been a part of - and why?
"My favorite evaluation was with an organization called New Foundations. We used primarily qualitative methods - interviews and guided discussions. We got some great ideas and insights, and the organization put some of the insights to use immediately. Plus, the people they serve had great, touching stories to tell about the hard lives they lived and how the organization was helping them plan for a brighter future."
What advice would you give to those new to the field?
"Be excited! Experiment! Reach out for advice when you need it - but don't be afraid to innovate or try something new. We'd all like to learn from what you've tried."
This article is reprinted from the November AEA E-news, Vol. 10, Issue 11 |