60 seconds with Illana Poley

I'm rather busy in my role as SE2's mascot but I managed to find a minute (literally) to learn more about Illana Poley, who was recently promoted to Director of Policy and Research.

Megaphone Man (MM): What’s your favorite thing about research?

Illana Poley (IP): The charts and graphs. We do a lot of writing around here – full sentence, paragraph-style writing. Research is often presented in more graphical form, so it’s a good change of pace. And the more time you spend with research, the more you learn – it’s like pulling away the layers of an onion.

MM: Yum, onions! But isn’t research really expensive?

IP: Just like with all our work, the cost of research can range from very affordable to more comprehensive (and more expensive). Looking through existing data or even digging through past news stories counts as “research” and it can be very low cost – but still valuable to developing strong communications strategies.

MM: So, how did you get to be so smart?

IP: I just like to spend time with data to find new and different ways to understand public issues. The real question is, why can’t I sing and dance on stage?

MM: I can do the Jersey Fist Pump! Thanks for the 60 seconds, Illana. Now get back to work.

IP: It was my honor, Megaphone Man.

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More about Illana:
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Illana joined SE2 in 2005. In her new role as Director of Policy and Research, Illana oversees SE2’s qualitative and quantitative public opinion research practice, as well as development of long-term strategies to address significant public policy challenges such as education and fiscal reform.

Prior to joining SE2, Illana was the research director for the statewide Referendum C campaign and spent five years at the Colorado State Auditor's Office, conducting program evaluations and legislative audits.

Learn even more about Illana here.