Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs

Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs, located in Camden, New Jersey, is a research and public service center affiliated with Rutgers University-Camden. Founded in 2000, the institute serves as a hub for applied research, community engagement, and organizational development, focusing on addressing public policy issues impacting southern New Jersey. WRI's core mission revolves around providing high-quality research and evaluation, serving as a platform for constructive dialogue between public, private, and nonprofit leaders, and tackling diverse policy challenges. Their expertise spans areas such as social service delivery, local government capacity, criminal justice reform, civic engagement, housing affordability, and regional development. Through its projects, WRI connects Rutgers-Camden students with valuable real-world experiences in public affairs. Guided by an Advisory Board, the institute organizes an annual event recognizing outstanding South Jersey residents and raising scholarship funds for students involved in WRI projects. For inquiries, contact Senator Walter Rand Institute for Public Affairs at [email protected].