About me
I combine a strong scholarly research record and robust teaching experience with an extensive pre-PhD professional background in program evaluation and applied research.
Bio
I am currently an Assistant Professor in the Political Science Department at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo. Prior to pursuing my PhD in Public Policy at Oregon State University under a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, I spent almost fifteen years providing program evaluation and other applied research services to public-sector and non-profit clients. I also hold an MPA from Princeton University’s School of International and Public Affairs. I use she/her/hers pronouns.
Research Interests
My research interests focus on the field of public policy, spanning three main areas: policy process, governance and policy analysis. My scholarship ranges from the determinants of policy decisions and governance practices to the impact of public policy decisions on individuals, households and communities.
My primary substantive expertise is social policy, especially policies focused on increasing self-sufficiency and social inclusion. I also have growing experience with research related to stakeholder and policy responses to emerging energy and environmental issues.
I tend to take a multi-disciplinary approach to research, drawing on various research traditions (Economics, Political Science and Sociology), depending on the research question(s) of interest.
I have experience with both quantitative and qualitative research methods, as well as a long history of conducting contract-based program evaluation and policy analysis for public agencies and non-profit organizations.
Current Employment
I am currently serving as an Assistant Professor at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo. I come to CalPoly with a unique combination of expertise in both social policy and environmental policy. My current research agenda is focused on the response of the social policy/safety net system to the growing threats from climate change and extreme weather events. To that end, I am currently working on a scoping review of relevant literature with a team of student researchers.
Prior to pursuing her PhD, Dr. Giordono spent almost fifteen years providing program evaluation and other applied research services to public-sector and non-profit clients.