About Us

The Center for Research and Collaborative Partnerships (CRCP) is a premier research center dedicated to improving justice, health, and social systems through data-driven, evidence-based solutions.

CRCP is housed within the School of Public Affairs at American University, a “Research 1: Very High Research Spending and Doctorate Production” on the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

For over 15 years, our founding director and team have built trusted partnerships by meeting organizations where they are and delivering innovative, practical solutions to complex social challenges.

Programs

We specialize in courts and court-based programs (e.g., treatment courts, diversion programs), mental and behavioral health, and related policy.

We provide government and non-government agencies and organizations full-service, customized solutions. 

We provide comprehensive support in research, analysis, program and initiative design and implementation, training, and technical assistance. 

We offer expertise, tools and resources, and the strong connections organizations need to engage diverse stakeholders and have an impact.

  • Research 
  • Analysis and evaluation 
  • Program and initiative design and implementation 
  • Training 
  • Technical assistance

 

 

Expertise

Our strength lies in our multi-disciplinary team of knowledgeable, resourceful, and creative experts, our network of valuable partnerships, and our proven track record of results and success. 

As part of the School of Public Affairs at American University, we draw on institutional resources, faculty and staff, and maintain active collaborations in the Washington, D.C. region. 

We partner with other universities, subject matter experts, and practitioners across the country – and internationally – to advance learning and support communities.

 

Support

We provide support in research, analysis and evaluation, program and initiative design, implementation, and evaluation, training, and technical assistance ensuring organizations have the tools and resources for lasting evidence-based change.

Our collaborative approach connects stakeholders across sectors to drive public safety, improve tailored outcomes for practitioners and the public, and enhance communities. 

  • Applied research (e.g., quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods).
  • Program design, implementation, and evaluation.
  • Training (e.g. instructor-led, workshops, peer learning). 
  • Technical assistance (e.g., case flow management, workflow analysis, and systems improvement). 

Our Mission

To create a just and fair approach to systems that empowers practitioners and communities and promotes public safety.

Our mission is to advance justice, health, and social systems through rigorous research, cross-sector collaboration, and data-driven actionable strategies. We partner with organizations and communities to co-create evidence-based solutions that address systemic issues and result in measurable outcomes. 

Our Vision

To bridge the gap between researchers and those who need research — policymakers, practitioners, agencies, and organizations  — to create lasting positive outcomes for all partners and their communities.

We are committed to improving justice, health, and social systems through collaborative partnerships. Through verified evidence-based data, impactful research, and bold, innovative solutions, we aim to create lasting positive outcomes for our partners and the communities they serve.

Our Values

We uphold the highest standards of research excellence, integrity, and professionalism. Guided by our core values of authenticity, innovation, adaptability, and respect, we prioritize transparency, trust, and fairness in every partnership. 

Our collaborative culture unites researchers, practitioners, and communities, fostering intellectual curiosity and continuous learning. 

Through this environment, we drive interdisciplinary collaboration and develop creative, data-driven, and practical solutions that equip organizations with the tools and resources needed to achieve meaningful, lasting change.

 

The launch of the CRCP represents an exciting step forward, not only for American University, but for organizations like ours that benefit from rigorous research, thoughtful facilitation, and a genuine commitment to public service. I am confident the Center will continue to advance innovation, strengthen institutional effectiveness, and expand opportunities for impactful collaboration.

- Chief Josh Sprow, Maumee Division of Police

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How We Work

Event Recap

On November 21, 2024, American University and Verizon co-hosted Voices of Valor: Transformative Journeys Through Veterans Treatment Courts at Verizon’s Technology Policy Center in Washington, D.C. The event marked the launch of a compelling publication by the same name dedicated to advancing awareness and efforts surrounding Veterans Treatment Courts (VTCs).

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