In the May session of Hot Topics in Practice, presenter Jenna Van Draanen, PhD, MPH, an Interdisciplinary Assistant Professor at the University of Washington who works in the area of behavioral health and substance use research, will draw on real-world examples from local evaluations to explain how participatory approaches shift traditional notions of rigor, expertise, and success. By viewing this webinar, participants will better understand common tensions faced in local government and funder-driven contexts, including balancing accountability to predefined outcomes with the relational and process-oriented work required for meaningful participation.

Learning Objectives

  • Define participatory evaluation and describe how it differs from traditional evaluation approaches in public health practice
  • Identify key principles and ethical considerations underlying participatory evaluation, particularly in peer-led and community-based research
  • Examine real-world participatory evaluation in local public health initiatives, including successes and challenges

Intended Audiences

  • Local, state, and tribal public health practitioners
  • Community organizers, social workers, public safety and tribal justice professionals

Presenters

Jenna Van Draanen, PhD, MPH
Interdisciplinary Assistant Professor
University of Washington

Resources

  • Slides will be provided during the live webinar

Continuing Education Credits

Up to 1 CPH recertification credit may be earned by viewing this webinar. Visit the National Board of Public Health Examiners to learn more.

Date: 
May 26, 2026
Air Date: 
Tuesday, May 26, 2026, 12:00 pm PDT
Format: 
Webinar
Duration: 
1 hour
Cost: 
Free
Series: 
Hot Topics in Practice