Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities

Dear friends,

As we continue our journey at the Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities (LEO), I am filled with a profound sense of purpose and optimism. Our commitment to rigorous research has always been about more than just gathering data—it’s about translating that data into meaningful action to uplift lives and communities.

In our most recent efforts, we have honed in on the critical task of ensuring that our research is actively used to drive impactful change. This isn’t just a moral imperative; it is a testament to our dedication to turning evidence into action. Our focus on scaling impact operations is a reflection of this commitment, recognizing the vital importance of applying what we learn to create lasting, positive outcomes.

A significant milestone in our journey was the hosting of our first replication convening last year. This gathering brought together a distinguished cohort of service providers, funders, and experts, united by our shared mission to spread successful and innovative programs to more communities. Among our esteemed partners were the Uplifting Parents program from Catholic Social Services of Rapid City, the Tech Fundamentals program by NPower, and the Padua program at Catholic Charities Fort Worth. Each of these programs embodies the heart of our mission—empowering individuals and families to achieve lasting economic stability through comprehensive support and education.

At LEO, we believe that rigorous research is an act of love. Love looks beyond the immediate and seeks the long-term well-being of those we serve. It asks tough questions and demands the best, always striving for deeper understanding and greater impact. Our work is driven by this love—a love that refuses to settle for untested solutions and instead pushes for evidence-based practices that truly make a difference.

We often encounter the question, “Why invest in rigorous research instead of directly helping those in need?” To us, the answer is clear: we love people so much that we cannot stand by and watch as poverty robs them of opportunity. We love our partner agencies so much that we want to ensure their innovative services are making a real impact. Rigorous research allows us to operate with the highest and widest use for good, ensuring that our efforts to break the cycle of poverty stand the test of time and variability.

As we look ahead, our focus remains unwavering. We are dedicated to supporting our partners in their scaling efforts and amplifying the impact of evidence-based programs nationwide. This transformative journey requires dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace the unknown, but we embark on it with unwavering optimism and determination.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Together, we can turn the tide on poverty and create a brighter future for millions of families.

Best Wishes from Campus,

William Evans
Co-Founder, Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities
Keough-Hesburgh Professor of Economics
University of Notre Dame

James Sullivan ’93
Co-Founder, Wilson Sheehan Lab for Economic Opportunities
Professor of Economics
University of Notre Dame