Tag: Nicole Ngo

The Efficacy of Diversity Training in Nonprofit Organizations

Presenter: Isabel Queisser – Planning, Public Policy and Management

Faculty Mentor(s): Nicole Ngo

Session: (In-Person) Oral Panel—Diversity and Analysis

This study explores the outcomes of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) training in nonprofit organizations. This study aims to determine which aspects of diversity training lead to increased awareness about DEI or tangible improvements, and which factors are more detrimental to the goals of DEI. Open ended interviews were conducted with 18 nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest, where participants were asked about their experiences with DEI trainings and workshops. The data were then coded for the themes addressed above. This research suggests that diversity training can be a successful tool to increase DEI engagement if intentionally designed with longevity and opportunities for dialogue, actionable steps, and organization-specific focus in mind and are facilitated by an expert.

Procedural Barriers to Health Care: Applying for Coverage through the Oregon Health Plan

Presenter(s): Harrison Jensen—Planning, Public Policy and Management Faculty

Mentor(s): Nicole Ngo, José Meléndez

Session 3: To Care and How Not to Care, that is the Question…

For low-income and disabled Americans, Medicaid, a joint federal-state program that provides health insurance coverage at low-or-no cost, is a lifeline . And yet, even as the benefits that Medicaid provides are in greater and greater need, nearly 6 million Medicaid-eligible adults aren’t covered . Studies on Medicaid participation rates frequently cite the complexity of the application process as being one of the main reasons why so many don’t enroll . However, relatively little research has been done on how applicants for Medicaid actually navigate through the application process . This study aims to address this gap in the existing body of research by asking individuals who applied for the Oregon Health Plan, Oregon’s state Medicaid program, about their experience applying . Preliminary interview data shows that applying for Medicaid can, in fact, be burdensome for applicants that are working and/or don’t receive any outside help during the application process .