National Afterschool Association names Weiss one of its Most Influential in Research and Evaluation


The National AfterSchool Association (NAA), the lead organization for the advancement of the afterschool professional, has selected Maureen Weiss, Ph.D., professor in the School of Kinesiology, as one of NAA’s 2018 Most Influential in Research and Evaluation. Honorees are distinguished for their contributions to research and evaluation on youth and adolescent development.

In selecting their Most Influential in Research and Evaluation, the NAA seeks to honor individuals and organizations whose contributions to research and evaluation on afterschool and youth and adolescent development result in stronger practices, higher-quality programs and increased positive outcomes for children and youth. This year’s honorees were profiled in the Summer 2018 issue of NAA’s AfterSchool Today magazine (see also expanded article).

Weiss researches and evaluates the effectiveness of youth development programs, such as Girls on the Run and The First Tee, producing measurable outcomes enabling improved curricula, coach training, and developmental outcomes.

An estimated 10.2 million children participate in afterschool programs each year and the industry employs an estimated 850,000 professionals. The NAA is the membership association for professionals who work with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours.

Maureen R. Weiss, Ph.D.