ABOUT

Hi, I’m Jody Sturdy O’Connor.

For 15 years I worked as an educator and a nonprofit program manager in the Pacific Northwest, New Mexico, Ecuador and Alaska. Before that I was a scientist, working in geophysics and hydrology in Alaska, Antarctica and South Africa. 

Spanning both phases of my professional life has been a drive to use participatory (Popular Education style) methodology with groups of people gathering data to inform project development decisions. I’ve seen well intentioned researchers and programs working hard to create positive impact, yet missing key elements needed to create lasting change — direct input from the communities they work to improve, and solid evidence of success (or potential improvement). 

With a passion for building equity, and a belief that all people bring valuable knowledge to the table, I’ve spent years studying and experimenting with participatory data collection and facilitating group processes in Spanish and English. Using qualitative and quantitative methods to drive programs toward lasting outcomes that leverage participant strengths and address their greatest needs. Collaborative efforts with community-focused organizations led me to develop independent outreach and evaluation services that inform program supporters and decision making. 

Today I work with amazing organizations to assess needs and develop evaluation systems that result in empowered program participants, lasting impact and committed supporters. Together we are changing the world!