OSU Prototyping a Regional PIT Faculty Fellows Program

In collaboration with Cleveland State University (CSU) and Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), The Ohio State University (OSU) launched its inaugural Ohio Public Interest Fellows (OPIF) program in early May 2022. The OPIF program successfully trained and placed six (6) Ohio graduate students with STEM degree disciplines from four different Ohio universities in the executive branch of state government during the summer 2022 to work full-time as Public Interest Fellows. Fellows and host supervisors completed post-assessments and evaluations of the program which were used to determine program outcomes, impact, and measure success. This project officially concluded on October 1, 2022. The program’s primary objectives were to train and place six OPIFs in state government to grow the capacity of Ohio’s public sector and the future workforce to integrate scientific-technical insight into policymaking, and to foster a culture of dialogue and collaboration between state government and academia. Specific program objectives and activities for Fellows are the following: • Select diverse, highly technological, and equity-focused STEM graduates to take on substantive policy or advocacy work in Legislative or executive branch offices • Rigorous Preparation: Fellows undergo public policy, leadership coaching, and professional skills training to ensure their readiness to contribute to host offices’ work and receive mentorship throughout the program • Navigate state policy & learn how to bring scientific-technical expertise to policymakers • Contribute to topics like Ohio’s public health, energy, digital equity, innovation, and the environment • Create professional development & science technology networking opportunities that will position the Fellow for post-fellowship career opportunities Program goals and activities for host organizations and the PIT-UN initiative(s) are the following: • Strategic Consultation: Host offices define priorities and preferences, guiding program staff in their recruitment and preparation of Fellows • Provide evidence-based science and technology guidance across all areas of interest to policymakers • Support both the scientific and policy-making communities and develop STEM workforce into public policy • Offer professional development opportunities for Fellows • Educate students who are currently matriculated in degree-granting programs • Taking part in social responsibility and community engagement • Demonstrate a strong organizational commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion