Policy Forum
Integrative Healthcare and Medicine
Integrative medicine combines the strengths of conventional medicine with effective and safe approaches in complementary and alternative medicine. In the past decade, the number of hospitals offering complementary therapies has more than doubled to over 20 percent; and, among Americans, 38 percent use integrative practices in their daily lives. Ian Coulter, Wayne Jonas, David Eisenberg, and Allen Fremont discussed how hospitals, universities, and the U.S. military are using and teaching these methods, what research has found on the effectiveness of integrative practices, and the future of integrative medicine in the United States.
July 18, 2012
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
What's Next? Healthcare Mandate
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. On this call, members were briefed on the Supreme Court ruling to uphold most of President Obama's Affordable Care Act, most notably the individual mandate. Participants heard from Christine Eibner, an economist at the RAND Corporation, specializing in applied econometrics and cost analyses. Eibner's current research focuses on socioeconomic disparities in health; employer-sponsored insurance; military medical policy; and modeling the effect of health care policy changes on costs, insurance coverage, and other outcomes.
June 29, 2012
Issues in Focus
Defusing Iran's Nuclear Threat
The prospect of a nuclear-armed Iran has stoked tensions around the world. At this event, Alireza Nader, a senior international policy analyst and Iran expert at RAND, discussed Iran's internal political dynamics and U.S. economic, political, and military options in preventing a nuclear-armed Iran.
June 19, 2012
Visiting Voices
A Discussion with Philip Taubman, Author of The Partnership: Five Cold Warriors and Their Quest to Ban the Bomb
At this discussion, Philip Taubman discussed his book and offered a clear analysis of the danger of nuclear terrorism and how it can be prevented. Members had an opportunity to ask questions of Mr. Taubman in a small-group setting.
Philip Taubman worked for The New York Times for thirty years as a reporter and editor, including stints as chief of both the Washington and Moscow bureaus, and deputy editorial page editor. He has also worked at Esquire and Time magazines. He was twice awarded the George Polk Award—for National Reporting in 1981 and for Foreign Affairs Reporting in 1983. Since retiring from the Times in 2008, he has been a consulting professor at Stanford University's Center for International Security and Cooperation.
June 1, 2012
Haskins Lecture on Science Policy
A Conversation with Subra Suresh, Director, National Science Foundation
A distinguished engineer and professor, Subra Suresh was nominated by President Barack Obama and unanimously confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) in September 2010. As director of this $7-billion independent federal agency since October 2010, he leads the only government science agency charged with advancing all fields of fundamental science and engineering research and related education. NSF's programs and initiatives keep the United States at the forefront of science and engineering, empower future generations of scientists and engineers, and foster economic growth and innovation.
May 17, 2012
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
What's Next? Egyptian Elections
On this call, members were briefed on current developments and critical dynamics involved in the upcoming elections in Egypt. Members were briefed by Jeffrey Martini, a Middle East research project associate at the RAND Corporation where he works on political reform in the Arab world, with a specific focus on North Africa.
May 15, 2012
RAND Visiting Voices
A Conversation with Daniel Ayalon, Israel's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs
Leading policymakers and thinkers from around the world regularly visit RAND to meet with our researchers and exchange perspectives on pressing policy concerns. RAND Policy Circle members are invited to join the discussion as part of the Visiting Voices seminar series. Daniel Ayalon, the featured speaker for May's Visiting Voices, served as foreign policy advisor to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon from March 2001 through July 2002, and as Israel's ambassador to the United States from July 2002 through November 2006. He has also served as a member of the executive board, University Center, Ariel; vice chair of the Israel-America Chamber of Commerce; and board member of the America-Israel Friendship League. He received the Brandeis Award of the Jewish Community of Baltimore in 2005 and the Builder of Jerusalem Award of Aish Hatorah in 2008. Ayalon was elected to the 18th Knesset in February 2009 on the Yisrael Beitenu list and in April 2009 was appointed deputy minister of foreign affairs.
May 2, 2012
RAND Distinguished Speaker Series
A Conversation with the Chief Justice of California, Tani Cantil-Sakauye
RAND hosts the Distinguished Speaker Series to provide a forum for engagement with visiting thought leaders whose unique perspectives on a wide array of pressing policy concerns contribute to a richer, more informed public policy debate. During this session, members heard from Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, who is the 28th Chief Justice of California, the first Asian-Filipina American and the second woman to serve as Chief Justice. Sworn in on January 3, 2011, Cantil-Sakauye chairs the Judicial Council of California, the administrative policymaking body of state courts, and the Commission on Judicial Appointments. She received her J.D. from the University of California, Davis, and has served for more than 20 years on California appellate and trial courts.
April 17, 2012
Policy Circle Salon—New York, NY
Helping Those Who Sacrifice
Addressing Returning Veterans' Post-Deployment Mental Health Issues
Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan face many challenges, particularly when it comes to mental health issues. At this salon, hosted at the home of a New York City-based Policy Circle member, guests participated in an intimate discussion with Terri Tanielian, director of the RAND Center for Military Health Policy Research and James Knickman, president and chief executive officer of the New York State Health Foundation. The discussion was moderated by Jack Riley, vice president of the RAND National Security Research Division.
March 28, 2012
Policy Circle Lunch and Art Tour
The tour of our award-winning "green building" features an exclusive look at RAND's significant fine art collection, on loan from the collections of Peter Norton and Eileen Harris-Norton. The 200+ pieces of art on display are diverse and defy easy categorization. The most common elements are the "quirky" concept and vision suggested by each piece and the often unexpected and unconventional materials that are used. The collection—which continually evolves over time as new pieces become available—contributes to a creative, vibrant work environment and is a continual surprise and delight to our visitors.
March 23, 2012
Issues in Focus
Nuclear Energy after Fukushima
At this event, RAND senior physical scientist Tom LaTourrette discussed the pros and cons of nuclear energy in a post-Fukushima world, and shed some light on lessons learned over the past year.
The United States has long struggled over how to safely manage spent nuclear fuel. The ongoing significance of this policy issue was underscored in the aftermath of Japan's Fukushima nuclear disaster in March 2011. That disaster was prompted by a magnitude 9.0 earthquake, which triggered a catastrophic tsunami. In addition to damage to reactor cores, the Fukushima incident highlighted the risks posed by spent fuel stored at reactor sites.
Spent nuclear fuel in the United States is stored in a similar fashion, which has raised questions about whether aging U.S. nuclear power plants are as safe and secure, or as impervious to disaster, as had been believed.
March 8, 2012
Policy Circle Salon—Drago Centro, Downtown Los Angeles
Alleviating Los Angeles Traffic Congestion
At this salon, hosted by Policy Circle member Jim Thomas, CEO of Thomas Properties Group, Policy Circle members participated in a discussion with civic leaders and researcher experts as they explored the obstacles to problem-solving and offered recommended strategies for reducing congestion that could be implemented and lead to significant improvements. The panel featured Wendy Greuel (Controller, City of Los Angeles), Borja Leon (Deputy Mayor for Transportation, City of Los Angeles), and Martin Wachs (Senior Researcher, RAND).
Los Angeles's traffic congestion is among the worst in the United States. Trends in many of the underlying causes of congestion—e.g., growth in the population, the economy, and the movements of goods through the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach—suggest that the problem will worsen in coming years, absent significant policy intervention.
March 1, 2012
Policy Forum
California's Prisoners Dilemma
Panelists Greg Ridgeway, Lois Davis, J. Clark Kelso, and R. Steven Tharratt explored the issue of prisoner release programs from health, financial and human service viewpoints.
Under the state's new Public Safety Realignment Plan, the State of California is shifting responsibility for low-level offenders from the state to counties, which will aid the state's efforts to abide by a U.S. Supreme Court order to reduce the prison population by 33,000. California prisoners tend to be disproportionately sicker than the general population and, upon reentry to communities throughout the state, are likely to be medically uninsured and indigent. Key among the issues discussed were the questions: How will cash-strapped local governments meet the basic medical needs of this population? Will community health be at greater risk? Which communities will be most affected?
January 24, 2012
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
What's Next? Iran and Israel
On this call, Policy Circle members gained insight on the complex relationship between Iran and Israel from Dalia Dassa Kaye, a senior political scientist at the RAND Corporation and a faculty member at the Pardee RAND Graduate School, and Alireza Nader, an international policy analyst at the RAND Corporation and the lead author of The Next Supreme Leader: Succession in the Islamic Republic of Iran (2011) whose research has focused on Iran's political dynamics, elite decisionmaking, and Iranian foreign policy.
January 12, 2012
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
What's Next? Korea
On this call, members were briefed on current developments in North Korea and their global repercussions by Bruce Bennett, a senior defense analyst at the RAND Corporation who works primarily on research topics such as strategy, force planning, and counterproliferation within the RAND International Security and Defense Policy Center. He is an expert in Northeast Asian military issues, having visited the region some 75 times, has written extensively about Korean security issues, and has also conducted comprehensive research on the Persian/Arab Gulf region.
January 5, 2012
A Toast to You!
Celebration of RAND's Donors
At the first event of its kind, RAND celebrated its supporters at a wine and hors d'oeuvres reception held in the Santa Monica headquarters. Guests, including Policy Circle members, had the opportunity to hear from and meet RAND's new president and CEO Michael Rich. Attendees also were briefed on some of the groundbreaking work that's been made possible thanks to RAND's philanthropic supporters. Guests heard from Kathryn Derose, a senior policy researcher who is developing a community-partnered intervention to reduce HIV stigma and increase HIV testing through African-American and Latino churches; Martin Wachs, a senior principal researcher whose most recent work focuses on transportation finance in relation to planning and policy; and Jeffrey Wasserman, a senior policy researcher and assistant dean for academic affairs at the Pardee RAND Graduate School who co-leads projects related to public health entrepreneurship and the relationship between law and public health emergency preparedness.
December 5, 2011
Conversations at RAND
Conventional Wisdom?
Challenging the Premises of International Security Initiatives
Policymakers often claim that the gravest threats to international security come from the world's most fragile states. But what if such states do not present significant security risks, except to their own people? And what if the truly large threats are as likely to emanate from stronger developing countries? Policy Circle members joined Robert Lempert, director of Frederick S. Pardee Center for Longer Range Global Policy and the Future Human Condition, and Stewart Patrick, senior fellow and director of the International Institutions and Global Governance Program at the Council on Foreign Relations, for a casual lunch and an intriguing exchange on global security matters.
November 28, 2011
Policy Forum
The New Generation of Veterans
Panelists included Terry Schell, senior behavioral scientist at RAND, and Jonathan Schleifer, policy director at Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America.
Veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan face many challenges, particularly when it comes to health care. Attendees listened in on a conversation about recent research into this new generation of combat veterans, including their experience with depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and substance misuse, as well as challenges they face in their physical health, their access to services, and their post-military careers.
November 15, 2011
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Helping Those Who Sacrifice:
Addressing Mental Health Needs of Military Servicemembers and Their Families
In this call, Policy Circle members heard from Robin Weinick, associate director of RAND Health, whose research focuses on improving the quality of medical care in the United States, developing and evaluating practical tools for use in the health care system, and the development and use of measures for monitoring the status of health care.
November 10, 2011
Issues in Focus
California's Water Challenges
Climate change presents one of several significant challenges for water supplies in California and throughout the western United States—where population is increasing and the continued availability of clean, reliable, and low-cost water is uncertain. At this program, PRGS alumnus David Groves discussed an innovative approach to dealing with these challenges that may contribute to sustainable and affordable solutions over the long term.
October 25, 2011
Policy Circle Salon
Getting the Most Mileage out of Alternative Energy
October's Salon in New York City featured two speakers: Keith Crane who, in addition to working on issues within his program at RAND, is also engaged in issues pertaining to China, Iraq, Iran, the Middle East, the transition economies of Eastern Europe and the Commonwealth of Independent States, and post-conflict nation building; and Debra Knopman, whose expertise is in hydrology, environmental and natural resources policy, systems analysis and operations research, and public administration. Her project work at RAND has spanned a range of topics from risks associated with unexploded ordnance on Army training ranges to the design of a National Research Fund for Qatar.
October 19, 2011
Issues in Focus
The Long Shadow of 9/11: America's Response to Terrorism
In the ten years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, America has been humbled, hopeful, torn, driven, and inspired. At this program, Brian Michael Jenkins—considered by many to be the "dean of terrorism research" and the coeditor of RAND's report, The Long Shadow of 9/11: America's Response to Terrorism—explored some of the most significant political, fiscal, social, cultural, psychological, and military implications of U.S. policymaking since 9/11.
September 1, 2011
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
What's Next? Afghan Peace Talks
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. In this call, members heard from Ambassador James Dobbins, director of the RAND International Security and Defense Policy Center, and James Shinn, a lecturer at Princeton University whose research interests include radical innovation, risk management, corporate governance, and decisionmaking under uncertainty.
August 16, 2011
Policy Forum—Washington, DC
The Long Shadow of 9/11: America's Response to Terrorism
In the ten years since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, America has been humbled, hopeful, torn, driven, and inspired. In a new book, The Long Shadow of 9/11: America's Response to Terrorism, a selection of RAND's leading experts offers a distinctly farsighted perspective to the national dialogue on 9/11's legacy. Their insights assess the military, political, fiscal, social, cultural, psychological, and even moral implications of U.S. policymaking since 9/11.
July 26, 2011
Policy Circle Lunch and Art Tour
The tour of our award-winning "green building" features an exclusive look at RAND's significant fine art collection, on loan from the collections of Peter Norton and Eileen Harris-Norton. The 200+ pieces of art on display are diverse and defy easy categorization. The most common elements are the "quirky" concept and vision suggested by each piece and the often unexpected and unconventional materials that are used. The collection—which continually evolves over time as new pieces become available—contributes to a creative, vibrant work environment and is a continual surprise and delight to our visitors.
July 11, 2011
Policy Circle Start Smart
After bin Laden: The United States, Afghanistan and Pakistan
The Policy Circle hosted a Start Smart breakfast discussion with Seth Jones, who is widely recognized as a leading expert on Afghanistan, Pakistan and al Qa'ida. He specializes in stability operations, counterinsurgency, and counterterrorism and has worked abroad in conflict zones over the last several years. His recent research and analysis has focused on U.S. operations in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
June 17, 2011
Issues in Focus
After bin Laden: The United States, Afghanistan and Pakistan
What is the al Qa'ida threat to the United States from Afghanistan and Pakistan in the wake of Osama bin Laden's death? What are the implications for the war in Afghanistan? Seth Jones recently returned from Afghanistan as the representative for the commander, United States Special Operations Command, to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations. In 2009, he served in Afghanistan as advisor and plans officer for the commanding general, U.S. Special Operations Forces. Jones will share his insights and analysis about what's next for the region and the U.S. relationship with these countries.
June 16, 2011
Issues in Focus
Rising Costs of Health Care
Rising health care costs are a significant problem facing individuals, companies, and governments. As budget deficits loom at the state and federal level, how can the federal government expand insurance coverage while keeping costs down? How can the U.S. health care system become more affordable and improve its delivery of care to patients? Why is American health care so expensive, and what can we do about it?
May 24, 2011
Policy Circle Salon—New York, NY
RAND Research on K-12 Education
For over three decades, RAND Education has applied its expertise to almost every aspect of the education system. RAND Education's mission is to bring accurate data and objective analysis to education policy.
May's Salon in New York City featured Jennifer Sloan McCombs, a senior policy researcher at the RAND Corporation. Her research focuses on evaluating the extent to which public policies and systems improve outcomes for at-risk students.
May 5, 2011
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
What's Next: The Death of Osama bin Laden
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. In May members had the opportunity to hear from Brian Michael Jenkins, a RAND senior adviser who is considered the nation's top expert on Osama bin Laden and al Qa'eda, only days after bin Laden's death.
May 4, 2011
Policy Circle Salon
Sources of Strength and Challenges for the Israeli Economy
May's Salon in Santa Monica featured Dr. Kamit Flug, Director of Research at the Bank of Israel, for a presentation of the issues Israel is currently confronting in the social and economic realms. Dr. Flug is an economist who has written on top-ics related to the labor market, social policies, balance of payments, and macroeconomic policies and served on a number of public commissions, including the Brodet Commission, which developed a multiyear defense budget.
May 3, 2011
Issues in Focus
Managing the Unexpected: Admiral Thad Allen
About the speaker: Few are as experienced at managing the unexpected as Admiral Thad W. Allen. In 2001, Allen commanded the U.S. Coast Guard's Atlantic forces in their response to the terrorist attacks on September 11. While serving as the Coast Guard's chief of staff in 2005, he was the principal federal official overseeing the response to Hurricane Katrina and recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast region. And in the months prior to his retirement from the Coast Guard in June 2010, Allen served as National Incident Commander for the federal government's response to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, one of the worst environmental disasters in U.S. history, a role in which he continued to serve as a civilian.
April 19, 2011
Policy Circle Lunch and Art Tour
The tour of our award-winning "green building" features an exclusive look at RAND's significant fine art collection, on loan from the collections of Peter Norton and Eileen Harris-Norton. The 200+ pieces of art on display are diverse and defy easy categorization. The most common elements are the "quirky" concept and vision suggested by each piece and the often unexpected and unconventional materials that are used. The collection—which continually evolves over time as new pieces become available—contributes to a creative, vibrant work environment and is a continual surprise and delight to our visitors.
March 30, 2011
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Behind the Headlines: What's Next for Libya?
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. In March members heard from Frederic Wehrey, a senior policy analyst at the RAND Corporation who recently returned from Libya. His research at RAND focuses on Persian Gulf security, Iran and U.S. policy in the Middle East.
March 7, 2011
Distinguished Speaker Series
A Conversation with John Deasy, the Next Superintendent of LAUSD
RAND's findings and recommendations reach the world's most influential decisionmakers and attract a variety of esteemed visitors to RAND. RAND hosts the Distinguished Speaker Series to provide a forum for engagement with visiting thought leaders whose unique perspectives on a wide array of pressing policy concerns contribute to a richer, more informed public policy debate.
In February, attendees heard from John E. Deasy, who was recently voted by the Los Angeles Board of Education to be the next superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD). Currently serving as the deputy superintendent, Deasy will officially take the top position on April 15, making him the fifth superintendent in a decade entrusted with directing the nation's second-largest public school district.
February 17, 2011
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Behind the Headlines: What's Next for Egypt?
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. In January members heard from Julie E. Taylor, a political scientist whose work focuses on the Middle East, insurgencies, and nation-building.
February 11, 2011
Policy Forum
From Management to Recovery: Emerging Approaches to Serious Mental Illness
Mental health recovery is a journey of transformation that enables those who struggle with mental illness to live a meaningful life in a community of choice while striving to achieve their potential. The panelists will address issues related to recovery from serious mental illness, paying particular attention to the critical role of peer support, the rights and responsibilities of people with serious mental illness to make their own choices, and the unique possibilities offered by involvement in the arts.
January 26, 2011
Conversations at RAND
Policy Circle members joined former RAND analyst James Steinberg, now serving as the principal deputy to Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton, for a casual lunch at RAND's Santa Monica headquarters, where he outlined "where we are" in U.S. foreign policy at the midpoint of the Obama administration's term.
January 21, 2011
Politics Aside 2010
Politics Aside is an invitation-only, postelection retreat that engages policymakers, opinion leaders, philanthropists, and RAND's leading thinkers in a nonpartisan examination of pressing policy challenges. The program began on the afternoon of Friday, November 12, and adjourned midday on Sunday, November 14, 2010. Attendance was limited to 200 participants to promote candor and intimate discussion.
November 12-14, 2010
Issues in Focus
Improving Public Services
For services in which the public sector often plays a significant role—such as education, healthcare, or transportation—the need for improvement is pervasive. "Pay for performance" is an increasingly popular example of an approach that strives to align incentives (such as higher salaries) with goals and measures. Little has been known, however, about whether such approaches are effective at achieving government or agency goals, or whether what works well in one sector will work in another. Join us in learning about a recent RAND assessment of accountability systems in five sectors—child care, education, healthcare, public health emergency preparedness, and transportation—and about RAND's recommendations for improving them.
October 25, 2010
Policy Forum
Rebuilding Haiti
Haiti's future prosperity and peace depend on its ability to build a more resilient state, one capable of providing public services like education and healthcare as well as responding effectively to natural disasters. Even before a 7.0 magnitude earthquake battered the Caribbean country in January, its state institutions were challenged in human resources, organization, procedures and policies. Now, with the international community having pledged nearly $10 billion in aid, what priorities need to be set in best using those funds?
September 21, 2010
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Ending Social Promotion Without Leaving Children Behind
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. In September Jennifer Sloan McCombs, policy researcher at RAND, discussed the issue of social promotion in schools, particularly in the case of New York City's change in its promotion policy and the effect it had on children's learning.
September 16, 2010
Issues in Focus
Mumbai Rising? Implications of India's Economic Rise for the United States
India's impact on the global economy has increased significantly over the past two decades as a result of the rapid growth that followed its economic reforms. Investors and multinational businesses have undoubtedly been drawn to India's affordable, highly skilled workforce. India's improved business climate has spurred the United States to become India's largest trading partner and largest investment partner.
But the potential of this strategic partnership has not been fully realized. Can bilateral trade and investment increase in this post-economic crisis world? Will the United States continue to inspire Indian entrepreneurship and be a magnet for Indian talent? Will India's economic reforms continue to receive support in the absence of inclusive growth, and what implications would this have for the economic relationship between the United States and India?
August 26, 2010
Conversations at RAND
Policy Circle members joined two of RAND's most accomplished leaders for a casual lunch at RAND's Santa Monica headquarters.
Speakers: Natalie Crawford is a decorated civil servant who has been affiliated with RAND for more than 46 years, most notably as vice president and director of the RAND Project AIR FORCE from 1997 to 2006. Currently, Natalie is the president of the RAND Alumni Association and a senior fellow. Iao Katagiri has worked at RAND for 35 years and held a diverse array of leadership positions. Iao currently directs RAND's community relations efforts and is deputy vice president in the Office of External Affairs.
August 16, 2010
Policy Forum
The Air They Breathe: How Media May Shape Boys' and Girls' Beliefs about Sex and Gender, Their Sexual Behavior, and Their Futures
Every day, youths spend more than seven hours with some kind of media, and when one accounts for the use of two media at once, they clock in at nearly eleven total hours of watching, listening, or generating content. This creates the potential for powerful influence on young people's lives, both positive and negative. How might current media images of girls influence how they see themselves and their potential? Do the portrayals of sex that saturate popular music, television, and film influence behavior? We will discuss when and how media use might put well-being and future opportunities at risk, and how it might be harnessed by parents, content creators, and others to help young people build happier, healthier futures.
July 29, 2010
Policy Circle Salon
RAND Research on Marijuana Legalization in California
For more than 20 years, the RAND Drug Policy Research Center (DPRC) has conducted research and analysis to help community leaders and public officials develop more effective ways of dealing with drug problems. Beau Kilmer, codirector of DPRC, discussed the new RAND study on legalizing marijuana in California and the difficulty in predicting public revenues that might be generated from its sale. The study is noteworthy for bringing RAND's brand of objective, scientific analysis to a debate in which fiscal justifications advanced by competing interests are not always supported by the evidence.
July 28, 2010
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Are Americans Making Wise Financial Decisions?
Conference Calls give Policy Circle members an opportunity to go behind the headlines and hear from RAND experts on current affairs in which our knowledge and experience is particularly deep. In this call, Joanne Yoong, associate economist at RAND and a faculty member of the Pardee RAND Graduate School, discussed the growing complexity of financial markets and recent RAND research that focuses on the various issues individuals face when making financial decisions at all stages of life.
June 3, 2010
Policy Circle Lunch and Art Tour
The tour of our award-winning "green building" features an exclusive look at RAND's significant fine art collection, on loan from the collections of Peter Norton and Eileen Harris-Norton. The 200+ pieces of art on display are diverse and defy easy categorization. The most common elements are the "quirky" concept and vision suggested by each piece and the often unexpected and unconventional materials that are used. The collection—which continually evolves over time as new pieces become available—contributes to a creative, vibrant work environment and is a continual surprise and delight to our visitors.
May 26, 2010
Distinguished Speakers Series
Executive Compensation: Challenges and Opportunities
RAND's findings and recommendations reach the world's most influential decisionmakers and attract a variety of esteemed visitors to RAND. RAND hosts the Distinguished Speaker Series to provide a forum for engagement with visiting thought leaders whose unique perspectives on a wide array of pressing policy concerns contribute to a richer, more informed public policy debate.
May 11, 2010
Haskins Lecture on Science Policy
Riding the Rollercoaster: Federal Science Funding in the United States
The speaker was Shirley M. Tilghman, president of Princeton University and a professor of molecular biology. Tilghman is renowned not only for her pioneering research but also for her national leadership on behalf of women in science and for promoting efforts to make the early careers of young scientists as meaningful and productive as possible. The Haskins Lectureship on Science Policy was established through the generosity of Caryl P. and Edna Haskins, founders of Haskins Laboratories. The Haskins were dedicated to improving the nation's understanding of the relationship between scientific progress and sound public policy.
April 13, 2010
Conversations at RAND: A Policy Circle Event
Is America's War on Drugs Really Over?
In May 2009, President Obama's "drug czar" announced that we should no longer use the War on Drugs analogy and has since made it clear that there is an "urgent need to focus our resources on the best, research-tested practices" to reduce drug use. Recent RAND research assesses developments in the global market for illicit drugs and has examined the degree to which drug policy has impacted drug problems. Here in Pennsylvania, legislation is pending that would allow marijuana use for medical purposes. Have adults become more accepting of drug use, thus making it even more difficult for our young people to resist the temptation to experiment with drugs?
April 7, 2010
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Iraq in 2010
On March 7, a parliamentary election was held in Iraq. March 20 will mark seven years since the 2003 invasion of Iraq by a U.S.-led coalition. In this call, RAND expert Nora Bensahel will discuss recent events in Iraq and reflect on matters of ongoing concern, including American troop levels, timelines for withdrawal, and the future role of Iraq in the region.
March 25, 2010
Policy Circle Start Smart — Porta Via Restaurant, Beverly Hills
A breakfast discussion on media and its effects on society with Rebecca Collins
The Policy Circle hosted a Start Smart Breakfast discussion with behavioral scientist Rebecca Collins on media and its effects on society. Collins is director of the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention program in RAND Health. One of her recent studies explored associations between media use and adolescent sexual attitudes, behavior, and health, and produced groundbreaking evidence linking exposure to some types of sexual content on television with adolescent sex and teen pregnancy. That study also showed the potential for entertainment media to influence youth and families in positive ways. Another project studied the effects of alcohol advertising in media and in community settings on underage drinking. In addition, Collins coauthored "Exposure to Degrading Versus Nondegrading Music Lyrics and Sexual Behavior Among Youth"; has led or co-led several projects examining the fertility decisions, sexual and romantic partnerships, and sexual risk behavior of people living with HIV; and is working on studies of health and "new media," such as social networking and video sharing sites, and developing an intervention to help parents monitor their children's media use and direct it toward positive content.
March 5, 2010
Issues in Focus
Green Buildings, Green Jobs
In developed countries, more than a third of all energy is used to heat, cool and illuminate buildings—efficiently or not. Increasing energy efficiency and reducing energy use in buildings will play an important part in any policies designed to improve energy security and limit the risks of climate change. At this Issues in Focus event, Ambassador Charles Ries will describe how Europe and Australia have used innovative policies to provide information on energy consumption by buildings to promote energy efficiency and discuss lessons the U.S. can learn from these efforts. Ries will also discuss the effects of these policies on jobs in the building industry.
February 17, 2010
Policy Forum
Tipping the Scale: Policy Approaches Toward Healthy Living and Tackling the Obesity Epidemic
Year after year, Americans make New Year's resolutions to lose weight. Some enjoy long-term success, while others experience weight increases or lose weight only to gain it back. Although many view the struggle with weight as a private concern, the steady rise in obesity—and obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and depression—makes it a public health problem as well. Are there ways that communities can promote healthy behaviors and quality-of-life enhancers such as bike paths and neighborhood parks? Are there effective ways to compete with misleading media images of fast food? Join us at this Policy Forum as our distinguished panelists consider alternative approaches to weight-related health challenges.
January 28, 2010
Policy Circle Roundtable
Featuring the First Lady of Zambia
Mrs. Thandiwe Banda has been the First Lady of Zambia since her husband, President Rupiah Banda, took office in November 2008. She has a strong interest in maternal and child health as well as in other health issues. She is also an advocate for strengthening legislation to criminalize sexual violence against girls and women. Banda is currently focused on building partnerships between the government of Zambia and select nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and has committed to support and mobilize resources for NGOs focused on health, education, and gender equality. She has also called for more coordination between NGOs to improve efficacy and avoid duplication of efforts. Banda and her office are working closely with RAND's African First Ladies Initiative, which aims to help Africa's most committed first ladies in leveraging their positions to become leaders for improved women's health and education outcomes.
January 27, 2010
Policy Circle Lunch and Art Tour
The tour of our award-winning "green building" features an exclusive look at RAND's significant fine art collection, on loan from the collections of Peter Norton and Eileen Harris-Norton. The 200+ pieces of art on display are diverse and defy easy categorization. The most common elements are the "quirky" concept and vision suggested by each piece and the often unexpected and unconventional materials that are used. The collection—which continually evolves over time as new pieces become available—contributes to a creative, vibrant work environment and are a continual surprise and delight to our visitors.
December 15, 2009
Conversations at RAND: A Policy Circle Event
Getting Health Care Where You Shop: Do Retail Medical Clinics Offer Comparable Care?
Retail medical clinics are walk-up medical providers typically located in drug stores and other retail chain stores such as Target and Wal-Mart rather than in medical facilities. These clinics are growing in number and attracting health care consumers who do not visit a physician: In 2009, more than three million patients will have visited one of the thousand-plus retail clinics in the United States. A recent RAND study demonstrates that retail clinics can provide care for routine illnesses at a lower cost and similar quality as that offered in physician offices or emergency departments. The study, the first to assess the quality of care provided in U.S. retail medical clinics, compared the care provided in different settings for patients with middle ear infections, sore throats, and urinary tract infections. Are these settings an innovative new way of delivering health care, or are medical staff in such settings likely to overprescribe antibiotics and have a negative impact on preventive care by disrupting normal doctor-patient interactions?
December 2, 2009
Distinguished Speakers Series
Bridging the Atlantic Divide, featuring Phililp Lader and Robert H. Tuttle, former U.S. Ambassadors to the Court of St. James's
RAND's findings and recommendations reach the world's most influential decisionmakers and attract a variety of esteemed visitors to RAND. RAND hosts the Distinguished Speaker Series to provide a forum for engagement with visiting thought leaders whose unique perspectives on a wide array of pressing policy concerns contribute to a richer, more informed public policy debate.
November 10, 2009
Policy Forum
L.A. Public Safety After Bratton
At the end of October, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Bill Bratton will step down from his post leading one of the nation's largest law enforcement agencies. Bratton took charge of the LAPD in 2002, shortly after the department was placed under federal receivership following a string of high-profile transgressions involving Rodney King, O. J. Simpson, a corrupt Rampart Division, and others. Many agree that measurable improvements have been achieved under Bratton's leadership. But with Bratton's departure imminent, the federal oversight recently lifted, and mounting city and state resources constraints, what lies ahead for the LAPD and for the state of public safety in Los Angeles and California?
October 28, 2009
Conversations at RAND: A Policy Circle Event
The Use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
RAND, in cooperation with Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC, conducted a study that examined relationships between breast MRI and decisions women make about their surgical options. The study examined tumor registry data and the radiological tests for more than 3,600 women diagnosed with Stage 0 to Stage III breast cancer from our region. Results of the study suggest that MRI significantly impacts the decisions regarding surgical treatment among subsets of women diagnosed with breast cancer, and raises interesting questions about monetary and nonmonetary costs of using MRI.
October 23, 2009
Visiting Voices
Pakistan's Security Perceptions, featuring Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Quresh
The RAND Center for Middle East Public Policy hosted a discussion and private reception featuring Pakistani Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Foreign Minister Qureshi addressed "Pakistan's Security Perceptions" and fielded questions from Policy Circle members and other participants, including some of RAND's leading foreign affairs experts.
October 2, 2009
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
The G-20 Economic Summit
Next week, the eyes of the world will be on Pittsburgh as the Group of Twenty (G-20), a forum of the world's leading industrial and emerging-market countries, assembles there for continued dialogue on the global economic condition. RAND, which opened its third U.S. office in Pittsburgh nearly a decade ago, is lending expert insights to the numerous discussions and debates surrounding the G-20 meeting. In this invitation-only conference call—provided exclusively to members of the Policy Circle—a group of RAND analysts with extensive knowledge of G-20-related activities will share their observations on the summit and some of the key issues surrounding economic recovery.
September 24, 2009
Issues in Focus
Health Care Reform
Health care reform proposals are inspiring intense debates on Capitol Hill and in town hall meetings across the nation. While several contentious issues have dominated the discussion—such as a public option for insurance coverage and how to curtail health care spending—questions remain on how to effectively improve affordability, access to care, and quality of care. Join us as a group of RAND's leading health policy experts assess recent congressional proposals in light of these dimensions and reflect on the lessons from a RAND analysis of Massachusetts' universal health care plan, which some consider a model for many of the reform proposals currently under consideration.
September 17, 2009
Issues in Focus
North Korean Power: Myths and Realities
Over the past several weeks, North Korea test-fired a multistage rocket, detonated a nuclear device, fired short- and medium-range missiles, sentenced a pair of American journalists to 12 years of hard labor for alleged "hostile acts," and threatened a nuclear attack against Hawaii, all despite strong condemnation from the international community. What is motivating this latest round of North Korean provocations? What challenges do the United States and its regional partners face in deterring North Korean actions? What does RAND analysis—based on interviews with North Korean defectors and others with access to the long-secluded country's on-the-ground reality—tell us about the current state of North Korea's economy, internal politics, and relations with other countries, and about the stability of its regime?
July 29, 2009
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Health Care Reform
Health care reform has inspired intense debates on Capitol Hill despite the lack of specifics that have been offered from either side of the aisle. For instance, would anyone be eligible to join a public insurance program—and if not, who would be excluded? How would the public plan pay doctors and hospitals to care for its patients? And what are the benefits to be offered by the public plan? In this invitation-only conference call—a benefit extended only to members of the Policy Circle—RAND experts will discuss several aspect of health care reform, including access to care, quality of care, and health promotion and disease prevention, in light of this week's developments in Washington, D.C.
July 29, 2009
Policy Circle Lunch and Art Tour
The tour of our award-winning "green building" features an exclusive look at RAND's significant fine art collection, on loan from the collections of Peter Norton and Eileen Harris-Norton. The 200+ pieces of art on display are diverse and defy easy categorization. The most common elements are the "quirky" concept and vision suggested by each piece and the often unexpected and unconventional materials that are used. The collection—which continually evolves over time as new pieces become available—contributes to a creative, vibrant work environment and are a continual surprise and delight to our visitors.
July 17, 2009
Policy Circle Roundtable
The Role of Metro in Sustainability and Smart Growth, featuring Art Leahy
In April, Art Leahy became chief executive officer of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). At this invitation-only luncheon, RAND's resident transportation policy expert, Martin Wachs, will lead a discussion with Leahy to explore some of his plans for the region. What efforts will Metro undertake to reduce congestion and expand public
transportation? What are Leahy's top concerns regarding goods movements
issues stemming from burgeoning truck and rail traffic from the Ports of Los
Angeles and Long Beach? With state and local coffers in decline, how will
Leahy ensure that federal stimulus and other transportation dollars are put
to good use in L.A.?
June 26, 2009
Policy Circle Salon
RAND Research on Arts and Education
RAND Education has applied its expertise to almost every aspect of the education system, from arts and arts education to technology, information, and innovation. Susan Bodilly (Director, RAND Education) will discuss the breadth and depth of RAND's education research featuring some of the latest findings from an array of projects. Laura Zakaras (Communications Analyst, RAND Corporation) will talk about recent RAND work that explores what it means to cultivate demand for the arts, why it is important to do so, and how it can be done through comprehensive arts learning.
June 23, 2009
Issues in Focus
Mexican Security in Decline: Implications and Options for the United States
The security situation in Mexico has grown dire. Violence associated with the drug trade is a primary driver. According to one large survey, approximately 70 percent of Mexican citizens do not feel safe in their homes nor in the city in which they live. In 2008, drug-related killings numbered almost 6,300—more than double what was seen the year before. Organized crime, which traffics in drugs, arms, and human beings, also wields significant influence, having infiltrated all levels of Mexico's government and police forces. Organized crime in Mexico has also significantly affected U.S. security as the violence has grown in U.S. border communities. How do these security issues affect the United States? What are the implications for traditional border concerns such as illegal immigration and drug trafficking? What policy options are available to aid the Mexican government in improving security?
June 17, 2009
Policy Circle Conference Call with the Experts
Nuclear North Korea
Last week, North Korea detonated a nuclear device and test-fired several short-range missiles despite strong condemnation from the international community, including China and Russia, its historic allies. This week, North Korea appears to be preparing to test-fire an intercontinental ballistic missile. In this invitation-only conference call, RAND experts go behind the headlines to discuss the implications of these provocations, including strategic defense issues, the upcoming June 16 summit between President Obama and South Korean President Lee, the difficulties that the United States and its regional partners have in deterring North Korean actions, and the impact these tests may have on the six-party talks aimed at reaching a peaceful resolution to the security concerns posed by North Korea's nuclear weapons program.
June 5, 2009
Issues in Focus
Is the U.S. Losing Its Edge in Science and Technology?
Over the course of the last century, discoveries in science and technology (S&T) have been fundamental drivers of U.S. economic progress and improvements in our standard of living. A weakening of U.S. S&T capability would have harmful effects for both. Although the United States has been widely recognized as the world leader in S&T since 1920, concern has grown that the United States is losing its competitive edge. The factors driving this concern include globalization, the rise of science centers in developing countries such as China and India, the underperformance of American K-12 students in math and science, and claims of a shortage of S&T workers in the United States. What's the reality about U.S. competitiveness in science and technology? Do gains by China, India, and other nations pose genuine threats? How are U.S. immigration policies affecting America's chances to remain a scientific leader?
May 14, 2009
Policy Forum
Drug Policy in 2009: Are We Still a Nation at War?
U.S. drug policy has long provoked heated debate, with legalization, public safety, and substance abuse prevention frequent topics of discussion. A series of recent events foretells of a renewed focus on these and other drug-related issues as Mexican narco-violence escalates along the southwestern U.S. border; California debates legalizing marijuana in order to generate revenue by taxing its sale; and President Obama's attorney general indicates he will end raids on medical marijuana dispensaries that comply with state law. At this Policy Forum, a panel of RAND experts and other distinguished voices in the drug policy debate will explore the results of our nation's nearly four-decade-long "war on drugs" and discuss promising new directions for managing drug abuse and reducing the harms associated with drug use and drug policies on individuals and communities.
April 16, 2009
Policy Forum
Reparable Harm: Improving Opportunities for Boys and Men of Color in California
Latino and African-American boys and men in California are significantly worse off than their white counterparts in several categories that researchers use to measure well-being and achievement, such as growing up in poverty, graduating high school, exposure to violence, and going to prison. They are more likely to be born to teen mothers, contract HIV/AIDS, grow up with a parent in prison, and be less proficient at reading and math. In the wake of significant cuts in public social services programs at the state and local level, what can be done to help improve this population's life chances? At this Policy Forum, RAND researchers with expertise in children and families and a panel of distinguished guests discuss what policymakers, government agencies, philanthropic foundations, community organizations, and service providers can do to understand and help improve the life chances for the state's boys and men of color.
March 26, 2009
Policy Circle Roundtable
The Iraqi Refugee Crisis
The Iraqi displacement crisis is the most significant refugee challenge facing the Middle East since the Palestinian displacement of 1948, which it already far surpasses in numbers. As of 2009, one in six Iraqis is displaced and living either as a refugee in a foreign country—largely in neighboring Syria and Jordan—or in another part of Iraq away from their home. As the United States begins its drawdown of troops in Iraq, much attention will be given to the complex task of moving American troops and equipment out of the country. But what of the movement of millions of Iraqis that have already been displaced? Will they return to their homes or stay where they are? In this roundtable discussion, participants will explore the humanitarian aspects of such widescale displacement as well as what remains to be understood in order for policymakers to minimize risks to individuals, communities, and the Middle East.
March 19, 2009
Policy Circle Start Smart
A breakfast discussion featuring Maren Scheuner
The Policy Circle hosted a Start Smart Breakfast discussion with RAND natural scientist, Maren Scheuner, MD, MPH. Maren's work focuses on cutting edge issues in the areas of health services and policy research in genetics/genomics. Her recent research has advanced policymakers' thinking about what needs to be done to translate the historic advances being made in understanding the human genome into actual improvements in the medical care you and I receive. In 2008, RAND CEO Jim Thomson awarded Maren a prestigious RAND medal award for her contributions to improving policy and decisionmaking in genomics and for advancing RAND's work in this field.
February 26, 2009
Issues in Focus
President Obama and the Middle East: Challenges for the New Administration
After weeks of deadly fighting between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, an Israeli ceasefire and troop withdrawal is announced just days prior to Barack Obama's inauguration. Yet tensions remain high and supporting the fragile peace will be a top priority for the new administration. The discussion featured Dalia Dassa Kaye, associate director of the RAND Center for Middle East Public Policy and RAND political scientist, and coauthor of More Freedom, Less Terror? Liberalization and Political Violence in the Arab World.
February 10, 2009
Policy Circle
Holding the Public Education System Accountable: Lessons for Federal, State, and Local Leaders
Over the past decade, the issues of accountability, standards-based reforms, and pay for performance in the nation's schools have gained widespread attention across the United States. As the country ushers in a new administration in Washington, D.C., what have we learned to date about the promise and challenges posed by these reforms for policymakers, administrators, teachers, and—most importantly—students? Chip Burke (Chairman, The Grable Foundation Board of Directors) moderated the discussion featuring Laura Hamilton (Senior Behavioral Scientist, RAND), Ron Cowell (President, The Education Policy and Leadership Center), and Carey Harris (Executive Director, A+ Schools).
January 30, 2009
Policy Circle Roundtable
How Terrorists Groups End, featuring Seth Jones
Political scientist Seth Jones discussed his recent book, How Terrorists Groups End. The breakfast roundtable was an informal and open discussion, with ample time for questions-and-answers. Jones specializes in nation-building operations, counterterrorism, and Middle East security. His articles have appeared in such publications as Political Science Quarterly, Security Studies, and International Affairs. Jones received his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.
January 30, 2009
Policy Forum — Jackson
Sustainable Change Through Community Engagement
Three years after hurricanes Katrina and Rita, the RAND Gulf States Policy Institute is focused not only on recovery and disaster prevention, but on economic growth as a necessity for addressing the region's long-term systemic challenges in areas such as health, education, housing, public safety, and the environment. This forum gathered key stakeholders and decisionmakers from the Gulf States with RAND researchers to discuss key issues, regional priorities, and the role of research and data in problem solving.
January 29, 2009
Policy Circle Start Smart — Three Square Cafe & Bakery, Venice
A breakfast discussion on criminal justice issues in the United States and abroad with Jeremiah Goulka
The Policy Circle hosted a Start Smart Breakfast discussion on criminal justice issues in the United States and abroad with Jeremiah Goulka. Goulka is an associate behavioral and social scientist at the RAND Corporation. His research areas include criminal justice, crime prevention, national security, emergency preparedness and response, poverty, diversity, and U.S. Gulf Coast issues. He has coauthored RAND publications on various topics such as film piracy, domestic intelligence, and an Iranian opposition cult located in Iraq. He is currently researching the impact of gang injunctions in Southern California as well as how to improve the use of DNA by law enforcement agencies. Prior to joining RAND, Goulka worked with the Principal Federal Official for Hurricane Katrina Recovery, the U.S. Attorney for New Orleans, and the FEMA Deputy Administrator for Gulf Coast Recovery to create and run a joint local-state-federal task force to rebuild the metropolitan New Orleans criminal justice system. Additionally, Goulka was an attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice, representing the United States in constitutional, foreign affairs, and administrative litigation in federal and state courts. Goulka shared his unique perspective as an attorney and the impact that RAND research has had in a post-Katrina New Orleans, among other locations in the world.
October 30, 2008
Haskins Lecture on Science Policy
Climate Change and Energy Needs: Constraints and Solutions
The speaker was Ralph J. Cicerone, the president of the National Academy of Sciences. Cicerone is an atmospheric scientist whose research in atmospheric chemistry and climate change has involved him in shaping science and environmental policy at the highest levels nationally and internationally. The Haskins Lectureship on Science Policy was established through the generosity of Caryl P. and Edna Haskins, founders of Haskins Laboratories. The Haskins were dedicated to improving the nation's understanding of the relationship between scientific progress and sound public policy.
September 16, 2008
Policy Circle Start Smart
A breakfast discussion on HIV/AIDS in Africa: Social and Economic Impact with Gery Ryan
The Policy Circle hosted a Start Smart Breakfast discussion with Gery Ryan, a senior behavioral scientist at the RAND Corporation, discussing the social and economic impact of HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, with a focus on Uganda. Gery presented the big-picture questions and then hones in on related day-to-day concerns. He shared firsthand experiences from his HIV/AIDS research, exploring issues such as social well-being, households living and dealing with the implications of HIV/AIDS, economic output and the workforce, and HIV prevention and antiretroviral therapy.
September 12, 2008
Conversations at RAND — Pittsburgh
Invisible Wounds of War: Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Returning Soldiers
In a study that is making headlines across the country, RAND researchers report that nearly 1 in 5 service members returning from these conflicts are afflicted by post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression—yet only slightly more than half have sought treatment. The result is a major health crisis that researchers estimate will cost the nation as much as $6.2 billion in the first two years following deployment. Nancy Zionts (Vice President, Program and Planning, Jewish Healthcare Foundation) moderated the discussion featuring Terri Tanielian (Codirector, Center for Military Health Policy Research, RAND), Congressman Jason Altmire (U.S. House of Representatives, Pennsylvania, District 4), Congressman Mike Doyle (U.S. House of Representatives, Pennsylvania, District 14), Congressman Tim Murphy (U.S. House of Representatives, Pennsylvania, District 18), and Al Mercer (Executive Director, Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania).
September 5, 2008
Policy Forum
Invisible Wounds of War: Addressing the Mental Health Needs of Returning Soldiers
Since October 2001, approximately 1.6 million U.S. troops have been deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. RAND researchers report that nearly 1 in 5 service members returning from these conflicts are afflicted by post-traumatic stress disorder or major depression—yet only slightly more than half have sought treatment. Lisa Jaycox (Senior Behavioral Scientist, RAND; Clinical Psychologist) moderated the discussion featuring Fred D. Gusman (Executive Director, The Pathway Home, California Transition Center for Care of Combat Veterans), Paul Rieckhoff (Executive Director and Founder, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America), and Terri Tanielian (Codirector, Center for Military Health Policy Research, RAND).
June 12, 2008
Policy Forum
Issues Over the Horizon: A Look at Tomorrow's Front-Burner Issues Today
For 60 years, the RAND Corporation has helped shape sound public policy by staying ahead of the curve—identifying emerging policy challenges early on and formulating effective, practical solutions of enduring value. RAND President and Chief Executive Officer James A. Thomson moderated the conversation featuring Robert Reville (Director, RAND Institute for Civil Justice), James Quinlivan (Senior Military Analyst and Mathematician, RAND), and Melinda Beeuwkes Buntin (Codirector, Bing Center for Health Economics, RAND).
May 15, 2008
Policy Forum
Coming Up Dry? Climate Change and California's Water Supply
Across the United States, cities, regions, and states recognize that they must prepare to adapt to the local effects of our warming planet. RAND has pioneered new approaches to help public- and private-sector actors develop response plans that will ensure adequate and affordable water supplies across a wide range of possible climate futures. Moderated by Debra Knopman, Vice President, RAND Corporation; Director, RAND Infrastructure, Safety, and Environment, this forum brought together Jeffrey Kightlinger, one of Southern California's leading water policymakers; Robert Lempert, senior physical scientist RAND; and David Groves, associate policy researcher RAND to explore the implications of climate change for California's water needs and what can and should be done now to prepare for an unpredictable future.
April 17, 2008
Geopolitics in 2008 and Beyond: Is There Any Good News?
Presented by Ambassador Robert Blackwill
Ambassador Robert Blackwill, former U.S. Ambassador to India and former Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Planning, visited our Santa Monica headquarters and engaged Policy Circle members in a discussion regarding his observations on the future of U.S. foreign policy in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
January 10, 2008
Policy Forum
China Rising? Asia, America, and the Transformation of Geopolitics
China has transformed in dramatic ways over the past 25 years and wields increasing influence on the global stage. With a rapidly growing economy, new political leaders, and more-stable relations with its Asian neighbors, China is on the rise. But response, both in the United States and the rest of Asia, has been cautious. This forum featured William H. Overholt, Director, RAND Center for Asia Pacific Policy, and Donald Tang, Vice Chairman, Bear Stearns & Co., Inc.; Chairman, Asia Society Southern California; Trustee, RAND Corporation, who discussed the myths and realities of China's impact on the changing geopolitical landscape.
November 29, 2007
Policy Forum
Back to School: The Impact and Promise of No Child Left Behind
The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was intended to ensure that all children in public school are proficient in reading and math by 2014. Now, midway toward the target proficiency date, NCLB is up for reauthorization. This forum featured Brian Stecher, Senior Social Scientist, RAND Corporation, Ron Zimmer, Policy Analyst, RAND Corporation and Ramon Cortines, Deputy Mayor for Education, Youth, and Families, Office of Mayor Antonio R. Villaraigosa to discuss if NCLB is working to close the achievement gap in U.S. schools; if the effects of the Act's complex requirements can be untangled to identify areas of success and opportunities for improvement; and how students, teachers, and schools are faring under the Act.
September 26, 2007
Policy Forum
Gridlock in Los Angeles: Getting Past the Standstill
Worsening traffic congestion on the streets and freeways of Los Angeles is an issue of constant concern to the L.A. public, media, and local business community. With the region suffering the economic, environmental, and psychological costs of congestion, demand for relief is high. This forum brought Martin Wachs, Director, Transportation, Space and Technology Program, RAND Corporation together with Richard Katz, Former California State Assemblyman; Board Member, Metropolitan Transit Authority and Zev Yaroslavsky, Chairman, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors to discuss realistic strategies for Los Angeles to move forward on the issue of traffic congestion and get past the current standstill.
July 26, 2007
Go Behind the Data:
An interactive look at RAND's latest innovation
Analysts in RAND Labor and Population have developed innovative methods for capturing data that furthers our understanding of why people make the decisions they do and how markets, society, and policy affect them. This technique - called Multimode Interviewing Capability (MMIC™) – takes advantage of the benefits afforded by today's communication technologies. Policy Circle members participated in live, interactive surveys and learned how answers like the ones they provided are relied on by policymakers to make critical decisions that affect all of us.
June 20, 2007
RAND Distinguished Speaker Series
Admiral Thad W. Allen, 23rd Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, is charged with protecting the American public, the environment, and U.S. economic and security interests in all maritime regions—both internationally and at home. Admiral Allen will address such issues as the key challenges faced by the nation and today's Coast Guard; the Coast Guard's strategy for addressing these challenges; and how Southern California residents and businesses benefit from a ready, aware, and responsive Coast Guard.
April 19, 2007
Policy Forum
The Beginner's Guide to Nation-Building
James Dobbins, Director, International Security and Defense Policy Center, RAND National Security Research Division, discussed his new book, The Beginner's Guide to Nation-Building. The book is intended to help practitioners avoid repeating earlier mistakes, help political leaders evaluate the cost and likelihood of success in any proposed operation, and help citizens evaluate their government's consequent performance.
March 14, 2007
Policy Forum
Homelessness in Los Angeles
Paul Koegel, associate director of RAND Health, led a distinguished panel who examined and discussed strategies for addressing homelessness in the Los Angeles region. Panelists included Suzanne L. Wenzel, senior behavioral scientist, RAND Corporation; Torie Osborn, Special Advisor to Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa; and Ed Edelman, Special Representative for Homeless Initiatives, City of Santa Monica.
February 22, 2007
Policy Forum
A Vision for the Arts In Los Angeles: Opportunities and Challenges
RAND Social Research Analyst Elizabeth Ondaatje moderated a distinguished panel of Los Angeles arts leaders including Michael Govan, Director and CEO of Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Adolfo V. Nodal, Former General Manager, City of Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department, Michael Ritchie, Artistic Director of Center Theatre Group and RAND Senior Social Scientist Kevin McCarthy as they explored the complex factors that help shape the structure of and support for arts in Los Angeles.
October 5, 2006
Distinguished Speaker Series
America at the Crossroads: The Future of American Foreign Policy
Special Guest Speaker: Francis Fukuyama
Noted academic, political theorist, and best-selling author Francis Fukuyama discussed his new book, America at the Crossroads: Democracy, Power, and the Neoconservative Legacy, and shared his perspective on issues at the forefront of the current debate on foreign policy.
June 22, 2006
Policy Forum
Katrina's Legacy: Recovery Challenges in the Gulf States and Implications for L.A.
John K. Van de Kamp, Chairman, RAND Infrastructure, Safety and Environment Advisory Board; Former California Attorney General, introduced a panel of experts who led a frank examination of the problems revealed and exacerbated by Katrina. An informed dialogue about what public- and private-sector decisionmakers need to know to successfully build a better future in the affected region followed. Panelists included: Debra Knopman, (moderator) Vice President, RAND Corporation; Director, RAND Infrastructure, Safety and Environment, George Penick, Director, RAND Gulf States Policy Institute, Kavita Patel, RAND Analyst and physician; Credentialed First Responder, P. Michael Freeman, Fire Chief, Los Angeles County Fire Department; Chairman, International Association of Fire Chiefs Terrorism Task Force; Member, U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Emergency Responder Advisory Committee, Robert Sypult, Director of Corporate Security and Emergency Preparedness, Southern California Edison; Member, Homeland Security Advisory Council, Region 1
April 20, 2006
Roundtable Breakfast
Many Happy Returns: The Promise of Early Childhood Development
Featuring Jill S. Cannon, Associate Director, RAND Child Policy, Lynn A. Karoly, Senior Economist, Gail Zellman, Senior Research Psychologist.
May 25, 2006
Policy Forum
Winds of Change in the Middle East presented by His Excellency Ambassador Nabil Fahmy, the Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt to the Unites States. Ambassador Fahmy is internationally recognized for his expertise in the fields of disarmament and international security.
February 22, 2006
The Albert P. Williams Memorial Health Lecture Series
The Fifty Percent of Health and Medical Care Cost that Produces No Value
Guest Lecturer, former Secretary of the Treasury Paul O'Neill
This event was the fourth lecture in the memorial series created in celebration of Al Williams' tradition of creative, objective research and analysis aimed at improving the health of people everywhere.
January 31, 2006
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