Description: Item response theory (IRT) is a powerful framework for analyzing questionnaire and test data. This introductory workshop will guide participants through the key concepts of IRT and results interpretation. Ideal for researchers and students who work with questionnaires and surveys. No prior IRT experience required.
Applications are now open for the Adolescent and Youth Scientific Panel
On Thursday, September 4th, Mayor Bruce Harrell gave a press conference at the Lake City Farmers Market to preview millions in proposed investments as part of his 2026 budget, focused on expanding access to healthy, affordable food across Seattle. Part of that investment is the Fresh Bucks Program, a $40/month healthy food program that helps Seattle neighbors afford fruits and vegetables. Mayor Harrell proposed an expansion of Fresh Bucks with a $6 million investment that would expand the monthly stipend by 50% to $60/month, get the 4,000 people who are waiting to be a part of this program off the waitlist, and take the program participants from 12,000 to 16,000. At the press conference, CSDE UW Affiliate Melissa Knox (Economics) shared her and her team’s research findings on the Fresh Bucks program. Dr. Knox and team surveyed around 2,000 households who were part of the program or on the waitlist and found findings such as Fresh Bucks households experience a 31% higher rate of food security. Dr. Knox states, “at the end of the day, our study, our numbers, told a pretty simple story. When Seattle invests in programs like Fresh Bucks, they make it possible for individuals and families to worry less where their next meals are coming from, and they can focus more on living a healthier life.” To watch the full press conference and to listen to Dr. Knox’s findings, visit this link.
CSDE Director Sara Curran, CSDE Training Core PI and Research Affiliate Audrey Dorélien (Sociology), and CSDE External Affiliate Emilio Zagheni (Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research) are all candidates proposed by the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP) Committee for the IUSSP Officers and Council members for 2026-2029. Dr. Curran is nominated for Council Member for North America, Dr. Dorélien is nominated for Council Member at large, and Dr. Zagheni is nominated for Vice President. Elections will take place from September 15th, 2025 to October 27th, 2025. To view the full list of nominees and for more information, visit this link. Congratulations to Dr. Curran, Dr. Dorélien, and Dr. Zagheni on your nominations!
The office of Graduate Student Equity and Excellence (GSEE) is offering a funding opportunity for UW graduate students who are in their final year of their doctoral dissertation. Below is a brief description of the award and the full description can be found on the award webpage.
Please note that students apply for this award directly through the MyGrad system for students. Funding will be disbursed this upcoming academic year (2025-26).
GSEE Final Year Dissertation Award
Award: Recipients will receive a total stipend of $31,500.00 during the 2025-26 academic year ($10,500.00 per quarter). This award covers full tuition and includes eligibility for health coverage through the Graduate Appointee Insurance Program (GAIP).
Eligibility: Graduate student must have achieved candidacy and expect to defend their dissertation during the 2025-26 academic year.
Deadline: Completed applications must be submitted through the MyGrad system on or before Monday, September 15, 2025 at 11:59pm PST.
Webpage: For full information, please refer to the award webpage found HERE, where you’ll find all the necessary prompts and eligibility criteria.
2025 Immigrant Integration Convening
September 14, 2025 01:00 PM (ET) – September 16, 2025 01:00 PM (ET)
Supporting Migrants and Refugees: Finding Hope in a Time of Peril
September 17; 10:00-11:30am CT
Join us for virtual office hours to discuss your questions with IPUMS data experts. In this session, we will be joined by special data guest SHADAC, a leading source of state health policy data and information. SHADAC is widely known for its State Health Compare tool, though IPUMS users may be more familiar with the health insurance unit variables they create for IPUMS USA and IPUMS CPS. Registration is required to attend virtual office hours, but you can drop in anytime between 10:00am and 11:30am CT.
Join UAPS for an insightful exploration of the complex relationships between population dynamics and climate change across the African continent.
This webinar will examine how demographic trends intersect with environmental challenges and policy responses, offering a comprehensive understanding of one of the most critical issues facing Africa today.
Webinar Details
NOTE: Only 200 spots available – Register now to secure your place