Throughout April, faculty, staff and students are sharing what research and creative activity at Boise State means to them.
Vanessa Fry is an associate research professor and director of the Idaho Policy Institute where she leads students, staff and faculty in providing innovative and independent research to help public, private and nonprofit leaders overcome challenges and navigate change.
She serves as Associate Research Professor in the School of Public Service where she co-teaches the Vertically Integrated Project Housing Opportunities for All. Fry focuses both her work and education on utilizing multi-sector, evidenced-based solutions to address persistent social, environmental and economic issues and meet the current and critical needs in communities across Idaho and beyond.
Q: What is your favorite memory related to research and/or creative activity at Boise State?
A: “The groundbreaking of New Path Community Housing when the mayor thanked the research team and shared the project wouldn’t have been possible without our work.”
Q: What motivates you to explore new ideas or create something original?
A: “I am a tremendously curious person and have a huge drive to problem-solve. Together those enable me to look at issues from multiple perspectives and develop and carry out new, and often exciting, research programs.”
Q: How do you think research and creative activity contribute to society?
A: “My personal mission is to be in selfless service of others – one way I carry this out is through community engaged scholarship that is responsive to the needs of community partners. My research, and that of Idaho Policy Institute, helps decision makers address the pressing problems in Idaho and across the nation.”
Q: What do you wish more people knew about your research or creative activity?
A: “I wish more people knew about the direct impact my work and the work of Idaho Policy Institute has on Idaho (and the US and internationally). Being able to see and experience my research in action is very fulfilling as in application my research positively impacts the economy, the environment, and society.”
Q: Research and Creative Activity are impossible in a vacuum. Is there anyone you would like to thank for supporting, mentoring, inspiring, or otherwise shaping your work?
A: “Without the team of Idaho Policy Institute my research would be much more narrow. As a team of faculty, staff, and students we can accomplish so much more than I could alone. In addition, my community partners catalyze the research I conduct and research sponsors help make it possible. Thank you to the Center for Research and Creative Activity and the Office of Sponsored Programs for all you do—your support from start to finish makes my research possible, and I want you to know how much you are appreciated by me and the entire Idaho Policy Institute team.”
Q: What does Research and Creative Activity at Boise State mean to you?
A: “Research and creative activity at Boise State means advancing knowledge and innovation while empowering students to become curious, critical thinkers. It’s about leveraging our academic strengths to address community challenges, fostering partnerships that make a difference, and preparing students to be engaged, solution-oriented leaders in their fields.”